Description
You are bidding on an EXCELLENT example of a WW2 Imperial Japanese Navy You Magnifying Viewer for the Type 90 No.3 Magnetic Binnacle Compass System! This specialized optical device was designed to clamp directly onto the upper section of Japanese Naval Binnacle Compasses in order to magnify the compass card and improve visibility for navigators and helmsmen aboard warships.
During the Second World War, the Imperial Japanese Navy relied heavily on magnetic binnacle compasses for navigation aboard battleships, cruisers, destroyers, torpedo boats, submarines, and auxiliary naval vessels. These compass systems were mounted on the bridge and served as one of the primary navigational instruments used for course keeping and maneuvering. Magnifying viewers such as this example were utilized to enlarge the compass scale and directional markings, allowing improved readability during night operations, combat maneuvering, rough sea conditions, and long-distance navigation. Specialized optical accessories for Japanese naval compass systems are extremely rare today, particularly when complete with their original fitted transport cases.
Made primarily of brass and aluuminum with optical glass lens, this magnifying viewer remains in SUPERB condition overall retaining approximately 99% of its original finish! The magnifying lens remains exceptionally clear with no chips, cracks, scratches, or haze present. The original clamp mechanism functions correctly and all mounting screws remain intact. Included is the original fitted wooden storage and transport box which remains nearly perfect internally and externally. Three thin wire sight rods are absent, though the unit itself remains otherwise complete. Original Japanese data plates with naval anchor markings remain present on both the instrument and box. The primary data plate translates approximately as:
Type 90 No.3 Magnetic Compass, Model 1, Magnifying Lens / Enlarging Mirror
Serial number 24116
Tokyo Keiki Seisakusho / Tokyo Instrument Manufacturing Co.
Manufactured Showa 18, November = November 1943
. A BEAUTIFUL and extremely rare piece of original Imperial Japanese Navy navigational equipment with outstanding display appeal. A PERFECT addition to any collection or display!
