Description
You are bidding on a VERY RARE example of an original WW1 Kaiserliche Marine / WW2 Kriegsmarine Leitz D.F. 12×60 Binocular, originally produced during the First World War, and later reissued for German Naval service! Produced around 1917, this is the military version of the Leitz Avioforte.
The Leitz D.F. 12×60 Porro II Binocular was originally developed during the First World War as a high-magnification military field glass intended for long-range Observation and Commanders of the Kaiserliche Marine. Produced in 1917, the binoculars are Porro II, and are equipped with 12x magnification with 60mm objective lenses which provide the observer with a field of view of 75m/1000.
Following WW1, select optical instruments were retained and later reissued during WW2, particularly to the Kriegsmarine where high-magnification optics were valuable for naval observation duties. Kriegsmarine reissue examples often display naval property markings, including the KM eagle and issue numbers, applied during the refurbishment process. These binoculars are distinct from standard Army-issue field glasses due to their higher magnification and large objective lenses.
Made of brass, aluminum and steel, these binoculars are in EXCELLENT used condition! Featuring approx. 90% original finish, this example retains features some light patina, marks, and wear consistent with handling. The left prism plate is marked “Leitz D.F. 12×60”; while the right prism plate bears the scarce WWI German Naval “M over Anchor” property marking – a marking encountered far less often than the standard Crown/M Naval acceptance. It also features the original Issue Number “803″. This binocular was then later reissued during WWII and bears the correct Kriegsmarine Eagle over M Naval property marking, giving this set a service history spanning both World Wars. Having BOTH marking is encountered far less frequently than standard property markings, adding to the historical interest of this binocular. There is also the “E=13.3 G” marking on the body of the binoculars, however, I am not sure of its meaning at this time. The optics are in near PERFECT condition, with NO haze, fungus, separation, scratches, or internal spotting…however the collimation / optical alignment is slightly off (this could be rectified by the winning bidder). Focus adjustments operate SMOOTHLY and correctly. The Eye Cups are intact with NO cracking. There is no reticle present, consistent with this model configuration. A SUPERB and highly desirable Kriegsmarine reissue of an early Leitz military optic, combining WW1 manufacture with confirmed WW1 and WW2 Naval service! A PERFECT item for any collection or display!
