Archives of an email list on the history of binoculars. http://home.europa.com/~telscope/listp250.txt home page: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/binotele.htm 251-300 ============================================================================= Binocular List #251: 31 March 2003 ============================================================ Subject: Hastings Brashear Binocular From: "Steve Stayton" The Hastings-Brashear Roof Prism binocular that was acquired on ebay recently is really fascinating and was new to binocular historians and collectors as far as I know until this one turned up. I will be posting a detailed description and pictures of it as found and disassembled on my website (under construction as they say) in the future as my time allows. It is a very early example of a roof prism binocular and the first one that I know of using this particular type of prism arrangement. Here are some links to some low resolution pictures: Hastings-Brashear Binocular http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/HB_Binoc2.jpg Engraving: http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/HB_Engraving1.jpg Prism Assembly: http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/HB_Prism2.jpg The build and finish of the binocular is consistent with quality commercial binoculars of the time but it would seem to me that this binocular is a prototype built to evaluate the usefulness of the Hastings erecting prism. The binocular is constructed in a form more typical of 19th century non-prismatic twin telescopes than that of the new Zeiss type prism binoculars of the day. It may well have been one of a kind or one of a limited production prototype build. Maybe it was a modified twin telescope body with the prism and new imaging optics replacing the original erecting lens system but I don't recognize the particular model as one I have seen before. If anyone knows of a similar binocular body without prisms please let us know. John Brashear (1840-1920) was a famous American telescope maker and optician known for his high quality of workmanship. For some info on Brashear see: http://johnbrashear.tripod.com/ The ebay seller told me that the binocular was purchased at a flea market in Pittsburgh so it is possible that it spent its first 100 or so years close to its presumed origin at the John A. Brashear Co. works in Pittsburgh. It is well known that John A. Brashear Co. built production quantities of lenses and porro prisms for the Warner and Swasey binoculars starting in 1899. (ref: W.R. Warner, The How and Why of the Porro Prism Field-Glass, Transactions of the ASME No.926, December 1901) The porro prisms used in the W&S required much less accurate face angles than the roof prism type of the Hastings. The level of precision required to fabricate the roof prism in the Hastings prism would be an obstacle in making the design cost effective for the commercial market. The Hastings-Brashear binocular is engraved with a patent date of July 20, 1897. The patent (US Patent 586,708 titled "Erecting Prism" dated July 20, 1897) is awarded to Charles S. Hastings (well known American optical scientist of Hastings Triplet fame) and no mention is made of Brashear in the Patent. Charles Hastings was employeed by Brashear to "calculate the curves of lenses" (as they called optical design back in those days) starting in 1887. Hastings 1897 Roof Prism Patent: www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/Hastings-586708-1.tif www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/Hastings-586708-2.tif www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/Hastings-586708-3.tif www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/Hastings-586708-4.tif The invention is for an erecting prism of the type commonly known today as the Abbe- Koenig (or Abbe-Konig) roof prism and was used extensively since 1905 by the German firm of Hensoldt in many of their binocular models. The Hastings prism type (aka Abbe- Koenig) is currently used in the Zeiss Victory series of binoculars. It is not clear to me why Zeiss and others refer to this prism type as the Abbe-Koenig prism and whether or not there was a description of this prism in Germany prior to the 1897 US patent. The "Abbe" refers of course to Ernst Abbe at Zeiss and Albert Koenig was an optical scientist at Zeiss. If any list member knows more about the German history of this prism please add to our knowledge. There is reference to a German Patent by Hensoldt: D.R.P. Nr. 180644, dated April 14,1905 in a recent Zeiss binocular brochure (What You Should Know About Binoculars, p.4) and in Seeger's Red Book (p114). Hensoldt 1905 Roof Prism Patent: Text: www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/DRP_180644_1.pdf www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/DRP_180644_2.pdf Drawings: www.lightmechanics.com/Patents/DRP_180644_3.pdf (You will need Acrobat Reader to view the Hensoldt patents, it can be downloaded free from www.Adobe.com ) It is of course possible that the Germans were not aware of the Hastings Patent since it was not used in any known production binoculars until the 1905 Hensoldt or it is possible that Hastings was not aware of some prior German invention of the prism by Abbe. There a construction difference between the Hastings roof prism and the Abbe-Koenig in that the Hastings is built up from 3 prism pieces bonded together while the Abbe-K type is made from 2 prism pieces. However the basic optical form of the reflecting surfaces to accomplish the image erection is the same. This construction difference is sufficient reason to justify separate Patents on the two very similar prisms. The Hensoldt form of the prism allows for a more compact prism cluster with larger objectives and larger FOV for a given prism size by moving the roof edge in closer to the optical axis of the objective lens. You can't do that with the Hastings form as the roof edge will start to vignette the rays from the objective. A note from Dick Karlson pointed out that some Hensoldt roof prisms used an airspace instead of a cemented interface. Indeed, the Hensoldt Dialyt binoculars that I have disassembled use the roof prism as shown in the 1905 Patent except that they use an airspace between the two prism pieces instead of a cemented interface. This is a further advantage in making the prism compact because the roof edge can be moved in even closer and still maintain total internal reflection (TIR) inside the second prism. The Hensoldt (aka Abbe-Koenig) prism can be used with bonded prism parts as indeed is shown in the 1905 Patent. For the on-axis rays shown in the three Patent figures the cement layer is not in the area of the TIR in the second prism so there is no problem having cement. With increasing field of view there would be some vignetting at the cement layer. The addition of the airspace allows for a larger FOV or smaller F-Number objective without increasing the prism sizes. The Hastings prism in three pieces must be bonded or it would suffer large chromatic aberration problems with the airspaced surfaces not being perpendicular to the optical axis. The Hensoldt Patent shows how the prism arrangement can be optimized for the largest objective lens diameter in Fig.3 vs Fig.1. In Fig. 3 the telescope tube diameter (dashed lines) is the same as in Fig. 1 but the objective lens is much larger in diameter. The Hastings prism and the Hensoldt prism can both be used with or without displacement of the optical axis. This is shown in the Hensoldt Patent. Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 have no displacement of the optical axis (labeled 'X') whereas Fig. 2 shows a latereal displacement of the 'X' axis. It all depends on the relative position of the objective lens axis and the prism faces. Just to confuse the issue even more for those who have MIL-HDBK-141 (the best english language review of optical prisms IMO) see Fig. 13.37 Abbe Prism, Type A and Fig 13.39 Abbe Prism, Type B. The Abbe Prism, Type A is the Hensoldt configuration and the Type B is a three piece construction but not the Hastings arrangement of parts. It's all done with mirrors as they say. All these prisms have the same basic optical geometry to perform the image erection as shown in the 1897 Hastings Patent, the variations are for improved manufacturing and reduced size. More photos and measured specs on the H-B binocular to come later. Steve Stayton Tucson -------------------------- MIL-HDBK-141 is available on line, each chapter as a separate .pdf, adding up to about 90 megs: http://www.azmackes.net/astronomy/mil_hdbk_141/ Or you can buy a reprint for $50. from Surplus Shed at http://www.surplusshed.com/pages/Miscellaneous#M1514 Hastings & Brashear are two of the most important names in modern optics. This patent has been known for some time, but the prototype model is a surprise. A roof prism made in Pittsburgh, establishing precedent over the Abbe-Koenig prism, is quite interesting. --Peter ================================================================== Subject: Resolution From: "randle dewees" >>>sharpness is a function of both resolution and contrast .....If the Zeiss glass is superior in both of these attributes, how can it be poorer in sharpness?<<< Some comments about resolution, contrast, and sharpness. Resolution and contrast are terms that are discussed and defined in many references on optics and optical instrumentation. Sharpness on the other hand has no technical definition that I'm aware of. It is a pedestrian term for a complex phenomenon, and as such is pretty useful in making a casual or general statement about the overall optical ability of an instrument to show things. The definitions of contrast and resolution are very specific about target contrast and spatial or frequency content. In a sense contrast and resolution are interchangeable at some scale. Combining the two properties, MTF provides a measure of contrast transfer at some image spatial frequency (resolution), or, somewhat conversely, spatial resolution at some contrast level. I think I'm safe in saying that a binocular that is really "sharp" has a MTF that is close to ideal, at least in the frequency range that means something to the human eye. So I'm agreeing with Arthur Tenenholtz's comment that sharpness is a function of resolution and contrast, and I also question the conclusions of that Astronomy article. Without measuring the MTF of binoculars any comparison is going to be subjective to some extent. Factors such as binocular weight, ergonomics, exit pupil correction, eye relief, distortion, flares and ghosts, will all influence the judgment of a casual evaluator. On another subject I received a Burgess 15/70 ($99) about two weeks ago. Overall a pretty powerful bino but it did have two problems. The more serious was a 4 arc-minute step error in collimation. I fixed this in a completely lucky fashion by removing and replacing one prism cover. I can probably look forward to future random changes in collimation but at least it's fixable (there are prism push screws, yuk). The other problem is the diopter adjustment is not balanced. My eyes are only 1/2 diopter apart yet I must screw the adjustable eyepiece almost all the way in. Bill Burgess offered to trade another pair but since they work for me I'm keeping them. I'll probably move the eyepiece in some fashion to help the matter (as an ex-Opticalman I know I should move the objective but that's not feasible on these binos). Otherwise, I like them - I certainly will not worry about them too much. There's not a lot of metal so they are easy to hold up - there are plastic parts and some of the metal is ridiculously thin. The eyepieces are incredibly good for the price, and "sharpness" is excellent in both barrels. These are multicoated on the outside surfaces and look to be fully MgF coated inside. . I'm really impressed with the optics, I have not used a auxiliary telescope to look at a point source but I bet the image will be more like a decent diffraction pattern than a aberrated blob. I'm a little disappointed that the Big Bino comparison did not include the Doctor 15/60 Nobilems. I've looked through several pairs, both Zeiss vintage and Doctors, and they have been uniformly excellent. One last parting spot for you telescope users. Today I recieved a Baader Planetarium Amici prism 90 degree diagonal (Alpine Astro $286). It's simply amazing. Using my C8 the diffraction pattern image of a point source is identical to a regular prism. I can't even see a diffraction spike. I will test it interferometrically tomorrow. In comparison I received a couple of weeks ago a Williams Optics 60 degree Amici diagonal (Anacortes $99) - after a 3 month back order. It was junk optically, I sent it back. With my C8 points sources looked like little double stars separated by 2 arc-seconds. Randy Dewees ======================================================== Subject: Contrast Sharpness and Resolution From: Kennyj2@___m In list *250 ( a milestone worthy of note in itself in my view ) I was interested in our friend Arthur's comments on the relationship between Sharpness , Contrast and Resolution in response to the Astro -Bino article in April's Astronomy magazine by Phil Harrington . Not being able to shed any more light on the discussion due to lack of real understanding of this important and intriguing matter , I consulted my e -friend Ed Zarenski to ask if he could. His reply was very interesting and with his permission I would like other members of the group to consider his opinions and comment where applicable . What follows is an extract from Ed's reply to me : "I think of Sharpness as the ability of the binocular to maintain a critically sharp image up to an increasing distance out from the center of the fov. I believe most others also consider the term accordingly. The adherance to strict curvature of the glass during manufacture, or a field flattener lens will improve Sharpness. Resolution, on the other hand, is the ability of the lens to bring the image to the finest point possible. Think of resolution as the ability to produce a smaller Airy disk (strictly a function of aperture) while also keeping the diffraction fringes to a minimum. If the fringes ( the rest of the pattern of rings around the Airy disk) is not minimized, the overlapping diffraction fringes make it much more difficult to resolve one fine pinpoint from the next. Although most people simply consider the size of the aperture as the limiting factor for resolution, the quality of the chemical composition of the glass probably holds equal importance towards the limiting abilities. I have seen better resolution in my 12x50 Pentax than in my 15x70 Oberwerk. Contrast is also a function of the chemical qualities of the glass, and not just the objectives but the prisms and eyepieces too. Of course, coatings helps to improve contrast and therefore resolution. But if the quality or the cut of the glass is low to begin with, then all the coatings and contrast in the world will not make the inferior lens perform better than the premium lens." Looking forward to any further comments -- Kenny . ============================================================== Subject: Optical & Film Supply From: info@___ce.co.uk >>7x50 porro prism models with the broad arrow MoD mark and the maker's imprint "Optical & Film Supply Company, NY, USA".<< I have seen a number of these in the UK and have a pair too, I think they are a early wartime delivery on a lease lend or hands across the sea. They seem to be based on early models MK1 etc There are a number of versions that I have seen – all made by "Optical & Film Supply Company, NY, USA" some have a small MOD arrow and some have much larger arrow I hope to put up a section with all the weird versions that I have found Hope everyone had a great time a the meeting in the US, Think it is time that the UK lot had another meeting – even if it is only at a pub. Simon Gunning www.oemspce.co.uk ========================================================= Subject: Reply From: David Bushnell Thank you,Peter, for the good wishes from you and the rest of the "Society". I'll never forget the joy of meeting all those binocular enthusiasts and would appreciate your conveying that to them. Happy Days, David --------- Today, 31 March, is David's 90th birthday; I sent best wishes on behalf of all of us. Thanks to Mike R. for reminding me. =========================================================== Subject: diaphragm From: "Claudio Manetti" Michael Simonsen asked: Is the word diafragma known as another word for Graticule? Maybe the word "glass diaphragm" is still used and well known among English speaking members. Were it not so, maybe the following message could be useful: In a small British book of the War Office, "Elementary notes on optics and their applications to service instruments, 1927", reprint of 1941, glass diaphragm is “ the glass carrying a pointer, graticules or cross-wires”. Regards Claudio Manetti ============================================================== Subject: Ross telescopic sight From: Håkan Spuhr I have just bought a Ross telescopic sight. Is here someone that got some information about it? Its marked Ross, London Power 15 Riflescope Its 25" long has a 19mm tube and outside sight adjustments. Regards Håkan Spuhr -------- I don't know that model, and in general on this list we don't get much response about a 'half-a-binocular'. But this was unusual, so I thought I'd post it. --Peter ============================================================== Subject: Too much success A web site with many reviews of binoculars & other amateur astronomy equipment is 'Cloudy Nights'. They are experiencing 'too much success'. I hope our efforts do not come to these problems. Those of you who are interested in internet publishing about binoculars might find this essay by Allister St. Claire interesting. http://www.cloudynights.com/open.htm --Peter ============================================================= Subject: Reply to list 250 From: Forslund@___ne.de (Forslund) ----------------- ------- A comment on the last contribution from Mike Simonsen: I regret that Mike did not attend the meeting in San Diego. If he had, he would be in a better position to comment on my presentation or, at least, be able to spell my name... Mike writes: I have ... reached the conclusion that to track down every military used bino ... before WW I is a hopeless task... Later he writes (without refeing to a certain time): After all, the models are usually well known by now. I definitely contradict these statements. In our research we have to collect facts and to document these for ourselvs and for our fellow researchers. The attitude to deal with a hopeless task cannot be the basis for further useful and fruitfull work. In 5, 10 or 20 years (or never...) we may have knowledge about "all" models, but we are far from this by now - at least when Swedish models are concerned. In San Diego I was able to present three earlier unknown models from Goertz, Voigtländer and Busch (all from the 20es). I have found them in Sweden in the last years. The two first mentioned I already showed in my artikel in the new edition of Hans Seegers book, but the Busch 12x60 Porro II was a world premiere. The interest in old binoculars is constantly rising and with it a demand for more and better information. Our task is to face this challenge, not to lean back and say it is hopless! Robert FORSLUND forslund@___ne.de ================================================================= ================================================================= Binocular List #252. 10 April 2003. ======================================================================= Subject: Kelsey Hayes Kelsey Hayes, of Cleveland Ohio, made the body for a 6 x 30 for the U.S. military circa WWI, a little different that the standard model. They also made a prismatic rifle telescope for U.S. Marines at that time. A web search shows they were a large manufacturing concern. Does anyone know any details about this binocular or the company? I have never seen one, nor heard of the company until recently. -- Peter ========================================================================= Subject: Hastings Brashear Prism The very early roof prism binocular discussed last list is mentioned in: Elementary Optics and Applications to Fire Control Instruments. By: War Department (I.C. Gardner). Second edition. Washington, D.C.: Government Printing Office, 1921 & 1924. p24, figure 23, Hastings Brashear prism, no displacement of the ray. p113, first page of the section with prism diagrams, shows the 'Inverting Prism System No. 1 by Abbe' , an 'Abbe-Koenig' with large side pieces. (Thanks to Frank Doherty for sending me this, a long time ago. What else you got, Frank??) ------------------ Subject: Hastings Brashear Prism From: "Steve Stayton" Thanks Peter for the reference to the Hastings and Abbe No. 1 prisms in the 1921 War Office publication. Fascinating that they show both the Hastings and the Abbe form of the erecting prism. I have posted these at: http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/HBprism1921.JPG http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/Abbe_prism_1921.JPG Some additional early references to erecting prisms of the type used in the Hastings Brashear binocular have been found as well. Based on a comment from Larry Gubas that Zeiss used an Abbe-Koenig type of erecting prism in the pre-1900 Dosen-Fernrohr, I looked around and was able to find a cutaway view of that instrument in a 1921 English translation of the original German book by Gleichen: http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/Gleichen_Pp157_158.JPG The Zeiss Dosen - Fernrohr (Revolver Telescope) is shown in two models, Klienes and Grossen (small and large), in Zeiss 1899 and 1902 catalogs. It is the first use of the Abbe type roof erecting prism by Zeiss that I am aware of but I am not sure when this Zeiss telescope was first introduced. The cutaway view in Gleichen shows a prism of the same construction as the one described in the 1897 Hastings US Patent not the modified type of construction patented by Hensoldt in 1905. If anyone has an earlier reference to the Dosen - Fernrohr please let us know. The question still remains as to when Zeiss first used or described that type of prism in Germany. Another interesting item is a picture in the 1906 Catalog of the John Brashear Company: http://www.lightmechanics.com/HB1/BrashearPrisms_1906.JPG This shows some of Brashear's optical component fabrication capabilities at the time including what appears to be two Hastings type erecting prisms. The Brashear company supplied complete instruments as well as a great variety of optical components made to order. By 1906 he had probably made a lot of Type I Porro prisms for the Warner and Swasey binoculars, thus the "ring of Porro prisms" shown in the catalog display. Steve Stayton Tucson ----------------------- The true origins of the roof prism are unknown to me, in spite of some dedicated sleuthing. Probably the first roof prisms were made circa the 1880s, either improved or invented by Daubresse. Does anyone have more information? --Peter =================================================================== From: Stephen Sambrook Subject: Combined objectives and prisms I wonder if anyone knows of any early prism binoculars which formed their objective lenses by combining a crown convex lens with a with a concave-ground flint-prism face to give an achromatic combination ? My ignorance of technical optics is probably unsurpassed, but I wonder if such an idea used in conjunction with a Sprenger or Leman prism and a cemented field lens (as found in the Barr & Stroud porro-2 glasses) might not have had potential for producing a binocular with the absolute minimum of air-to-glass surfaces and considerably enhanced stereopsis. Best wishes Stephen Sambrook ------------------------------ There are 'prism-lens' optical elements, for example a right angle reflecting prism with concave or convex faces, they have been used in telescopes. Fabrication is quite difficult, as the curved face has be be centered as precisely as does a standard lens in a telescope. If these exacting requirements are combined with the difficulties in fabricating a roof prism, the product would likely be an exercise for the idle virtuoso, rather than a viable commercial product. And there are achromatic prisms, with cemented crown & flint elements, though I'm not sure where they're used. And as noted, there are optical elements in some binoculars with a lens cemented to the prism. No doubt, the glass types in those are carefully chosen, but whether they are crown / flint combinations is unknown to me. These binoculars cement an eyepiece element to the prism, since if the objective is cemented, then the prism has to be much larger. However, the topic of such designs is of great interest, and the 1930s B & S or Zeiss models with cemented lens / prisms might not be the only examples. -- Peter ================================================================= Subject: Stabiscope From: WIta057@___m I recently had the opportunity to handle a US military Fujinon 10X40 stabiscope. It was being auctioned off as surplus inventory. From the short demo, I could not see any apparent advantage over my Canon 10X30IS considering its weight and price. It did come with extra objectives that would boost the magnification but I did not have the chance to install them. It would seem that at 10X, the advantages of image stabilization with the added weight and cost are not really realized. I noticed is that when panned horizontally, the image had a "rolling" effect similar to being at sea which might lead to motion sickness with prolonged usage. I could not do a good test of the quality of the view because I was in a warehouse with limited sight distance for a 10X binocular and there were other bidders that wanted to try these. The view seemed sharp but a little dark considering that these are reported to be light intensified. I did a Google search and noticed that Fuji does not sell any current models in 10X40. Anyone with more information on these gyro stabilized binoculars? ---------------------------------- As far as I can remember, the Stabiscopes have a very good reputation for image quality, they are not light intensified but are 'just glass', the stabilization is indeed for a 'lower frequency' of motion / vibration than the Canons, there is indeed a rolling effect as the image 'catches up' to your motion, and they're good for use in a boat. But it has been a long while since I've seen these. Image stabilization is an excellent, useful feature, though I have yet to purchase such a binocular. The image delivered by the Canons is absolutely outstanding when stabilization is off, and it is generally felt that the stabilization works well. --Peter ==================================================================== Subject: binocular estate sale From: "Mike" Attached is a list of binoculars we've recently acquired through an estate sale here in the USA. As you can see, the list includes some really exceptional items. Prices are regrettably high (in keeping with the market and what we had to pay), but we've built in a significant cost advantage in buying them as-is (since our optical shop is overloaded). While prices are firm on individual units, I would be happy to discuss a deal with anyone interested in multiple "as-is" pieces. s/ Mike Rivkin April 8, 2003 Special Offer The following is a selected listing of binoculars from an estate near Washington DC. . This list is being made available to a small number of advanced collectors before being offered to our customer list at large. The first price shown is the item as described, and the second price (in parenthesis) is with full reconditioning performed by our optical shop. 1. Carl Zeiss-Jena 8x60, “blc”, #2161273, porro II prism, black body, w/ Benutzer strap and bottom nitrogen ports, missing eyecups (one eyecup ring dented) but body near xlnt, diopters stiff, optics cloudy but intact. Price $3950 ($4525). 2. Carl Zeiss-Jena 8x60, #2161705, porro II prism, black body w/ flared rubber eyecups, bottom nitrogen ports, body showing wear, diopters need lubrication, optics dirty but intact. Most of the difference between #s 1 and #2 is in the eyecups. Price $4250 ($4750). 3. Carl Zeiss-Jena 8x60, #48843, internal focusing, porro-I, tan (primer) body color w/ aluminum hinged fold-out eyecups in good condition, small chip at edge of r/h prism, l/h objective showing slight separation, optics dirty but otherwise intact. Price $4000 ($4600 (prism chip will be blacked out) 4. Carl Zeiss-Jena 8x60, #49236, internal focusing, porro-I, tan (primer) body color w/ alum hinged fold-out eyecups, fairly nice body condition, optics dirty but otherwise intact. Price $4500 ($4975) 5. Carl Zeiss-Jena 7x50, #62496, internal focusing, porro-I (Rohan model 3), tan color, xlnt rubber top and bottom rubber armor, fold-out eyecups intact, optics slightly cloudy but intact. Price $2650 ($3025) 6. as #5 above but earlier pebbled finish model, #40165, all rubber intact but paint not nice, optics, dirty but intact. Price $2500 ($2875) 7. as #5 above but later smooth finish model, #62300, missing left fold-out eyecup, bottom rubber split but intact. Price $2200 ($2575 – sorry, no replacement eyecup) 8. Ross 10x70, AC2010 (Seeger 1st ed., p. 305), porro-II “Captain’s Sight”, the largest hand-held glass in any arsenal during WWII, complete w/ rubber faceplate, bottom nitrogen ports, coated optics (“B”), dated 1938 w/ Ross/London markings, some wear to cosmetics but generally very good, optics cloudy but intact. Price $1800 ($2125) 9. Barr & Stroud CF 46, unusual 15x60 CF model introduced in 1949, large oculars, coated optics, beautiful cosmetic condition w/ near-new chocolate brown case, slight haziness to optics but otherwise intact, appears un-used (except for minor wear from storage. Price $850 ($1125) 10. Leitz (“beh”) 7x50, porro-II model, w/ flared rubber eyecups (stiff but intact), near xlnt condition, top markings include Eagle, Kriegsmarine “M”, North Sea “N”, serial numbers, and coated “T”, w/ gorgeous long-hooded black leather case, this also in excellent condition (no shoulder strap), stamped Eagle on top of lid, “beh” mark and (1942) underneath, both filter sets in place on underside of hood, optics cloudy but intact. Price $1600 ($1950) 11. Leitz 7x50, porro-II, with top and bottom armor, rubber ocular covers in good shape, optics cloudy but intact, very nice black leather case w/ Eagle on top and “beh” and “1943” underneath, no filters. Price $1300 ($1675) 12. Ross 16x60 Solaross, CF, slope-shoulder housing, coated optics (cloudy but intact), w/ original leather Ross case, cosmetics near xlnt, w/ neckstrap. Price $750 ($1025) 13. Barr & Stroud CF-42, post-WWII variation of famous CF-41, this one w/ reticle in right hand side, otherwise substantially the same as original, includes top nitrogen ports, individual leather ocular covers, optics clean, some wear to paint but generally good condition. Price $350 (no reconditioning necessary) 14. Ross 10x50 Stepmur, CF, XL oculars/wide field, coated optics, some wear to body, optics intact but cloudy, w/ original brown leather “Ross” case. Price $450 ($725) ============================================================ Subject: Binocular telescopes for amateur astronomers. Juhani Kyyrö appears to be from Finland, but travels in the U.S., he has a web page on telescopes: http://www.kyyro.com/ that includes some unusual binocular 'dobsonians': http://www.kyyro.com/bindob1.htm List member Dave Trott has been busy: http://members.aol.com/davetrott/page1.htm ....the first binocular, 'Big Binoculars' is new, and the second, 'Giant Binoculars', has been shared before. There are some amazing Japanese binocular telescopes in a report from the 'Binoculars and Telescopes Summit', 12-14 October, 2002, Misono, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. http://homepage2.nifty.com/bigbino/summit02/report/report_02-e.html Click on: 'introducing equipments' The first 10 or 15 pictures are of binoculars. Especially see the interpupillary adjustment mechanisms in the images labeled: --25cm Newton "Magellan" twin "Do-Bino" --8.5cm Refractor "TeleVue85" twin" and see the hand made binocular viewer: --Binocular viewer for 2inch ====================================================== ======================================================= Binocular List #253. 21 April, 2003. ================================================================ Subject: 'English Mechanic' articles Matt Considine is involved with old telescopes, and old papers on that subject. He scanned two pages of 'The English Mechanic, from Feb. 1895, with articles on Zeiss binoculars. The images can be found at: http://www.considine.net/mac/em/zeiss/vol_60_p546.gif (426K) http://www.considine.net/mac/em/zeiss/vol_61_p013.gif (445K) A transcription of the two articles: English Mechanic, vol. 60, #1558, Feb. 1, 1895, p546: The New Binoculars. It might interest your readers to know that, since my letter on "Zeiss' New Patent Binoculars" appeared in the "E.M." on Nov. 30th, 1894, a friend has kindly sent me for examination a monocular telescope constructed on precisely the same plan - viz, an astronomical telescope whose image was erected by two right-angled prisms. The maker's name was J. G. Hofmann, of Paris, and the telescope was supposed to be three-quarters of a century old. The lenses of the Huyghenian eyepiece were separable by a spiral adjustment, which enabled the power to be varied from 10 to 15 diams. I have also been informed that Mr. Ahrens made a binocular on the same principle some twenty-five years ago. Edward M. Nelson." English Mechanic, vol. 61, #1561, Feb. 22, 1895, p13: The New Binoculars. In your issue of Feb. 1, p546, a further short notice by Dr. Nelson appeared respecting Zeiss' new patent binoculars, following his description and criticism in No. 1549, of Nov. 30, 1894. In this second notice Dr. Nelson states that a friend had sent him a monocular telescope constructed on precisely the same plan as Zeiss' binoculars. The maker's name was F.G. Hofmann, of Paris, and the instrument was supposed to be three-quarters of a century old. With reference to this, it may be of interest to state that Messrs. Zeiss very distinctly declare, on the first page of their prospectus of the new telescopes, that the principle of these telescopes - viz., the use and arrangement of the prisms for total reflection and for the erection of the image - was not their conception, but was first invented by Porro. This is stated in a still more emphatic manner in the patent specifications - for instance, in the English Patent Specification No. 7942, from page 1, line 31, to page 3, line 4. This specification, further, most clearly shows the novelty of construction of the Zeiss telescope, and where it differs from those of Porro. It would, therefore, have been an easy thing for Mr. Nelson to have obtained full information about this matter. With reference to the instrument manufactured by Mr. Hofmann, it might be of interest to your readers to learn that the latter was at one time a foreman to Mr. Porro. He afterwards established himself in business, and he obtained a considerable reputation for his manufacture of spectroscopes. He also made Porro telescopes of superior construction, and offered them for sale. This, however, was not three quarters of a century ago, but about 25 years since - i.e., about one quarter of a century. I was not aware that Mr. H. Ahrens had also manufactured straight-sided telescopes with a system of reflecting prisms. The principle of the Porro telescope, has been, however, repeatedly invented by others since Porro. This is fully explained in a report by Dr. Czapski on these telescopes, which will be published in a few days. --J.W. Measure. ============================================================== Subject: Kelsey Hayes. I asked about a binocular marked 'Kelsey Hayes'. From: WIta057@___m Kelsey- Hayes makes automobile brake systems and components. I believe they are now part of TRW. Aloha, Wayne. From: "Preston Cook" This company has been active for many years in the automotive industry. Their primary products are brake system and suspension components. Preston Cook =============================================================== Subject: Image Stabilized Binoculars From: "William Cook" Those interested in IS binoculars might be interested in a little article I wrote for the last issue of Nor'Westing magazine. It was certainly not a scholarly piece; but them, it wasn't written for scholars. If anyone is interested, I will look up the issue and page number. I think it is still on the newstand. Cheers, Bill Cook ------------------------ See also: Gary Seronik, 'Image Stabilized Binoculars Aplenty'. Sky & Telescope, July 2000. Canon has an IS model I hadn't heard of: 8 x 25 IS, list $460. And Nikon's model is new to me: Nikon 14 x 40 Stabil-Eyes. 1700 list. http://www.ave.nikon.co.jp/bi_e/products/stabil.htm The face of the internal erecting prism shifts direction, thereby redirecting the light beam and stabilizing the image. When there is no vibration and the binoculars are parallel to the line connecting the viewer’s eye to the subject being viewed (a), the prism transmits the light straight through. When there is vibration and the binoculars are not properly aligned (b), as long as the prism is not moved the light beam will be transmitted to the viewer’s eye. This example illustrates rotation on the horizontal axis. The StabilEyes prisms feature a gimbaled frame controlled by two piezoelectric sensors and two direct drive motors to ensure constant stability. ================================================================= Subject: Fujinon Stabiscopes. Last list, I wrote that there are glass, not electronic optics. Correction: the new Fujinon Stabiscopes are indeed image intensified. http://www.fujinon.co.jp/products/optical/bn04.htm While you're there, check out the 150mm models: http://www.fujinon.co.jp/products/optical/bn02.htm Fujinon released a new binocular “THECHNO-STABI TS1232” on October 1, 2002. TS1232 has been developed as a handy version of TS1440. 1. Background We developed STABISCOPE for professionals and TECHNO-STABI TS1440 of commercial type for use on a vibrating platform such as a helicopter or a moving ship....new TS1232 for handy and low-cost binoculars with the same anti-vibration function, and compact size.....TS1232 can be marketed at about half the price of TECHNO-STABI TS1440. The anti-vibration function of TS1232 controls the erecting prisms in the gimbaled frame by the direct drive motors through a microcomputer, and gives you rock steady images at quick response. The gimbal is a mechanism that holds prisms in it in the air so that the prisms may be moved free vertically or horizontally. TS1232 has a waterproof structure ....newly adopted twist-up eye pad provided on the eyepiece section.....two AA dry batteries are used for easy portability. List Price in Japan:¥ 89,000 ============================================================== Subject: Re: Binocular List No. 252, lensatic prism elements From: "Lucas, Gene" In re: Bino List 252, the note from Stephen Sambrook and your comments, regarding "combined objectives and prisms", may I mention that in the 1970s (the late) Max Bray publically discussed the feasibility of making a small Maksutov-Newtonian corrector element, consisting of a prism with lens curves on two (or possibly three) faces, to be placed in the beam from the Newtonian primary mirror. This would facilitate making systems consisting of only spherical optics (including the primary). If properly made, the advantage would be that the prism corrector could be sold as an accessory, so amateurs could make or buy the spherical primary. Max used a four-surface Maksutov design by Donald Perry for his 3 inch Ad Astra Maksutovs (and possibly other sizes, for instance the 20 inch Maksutov at Vega-Bray Observatory). By using a different radius on the secondary "spot", third-order corrections are possible, to improve the performance over, say, the classical Gregory designs using a meniscus corrector (with the reflecting secondary spot on the inside curve). I believe Bray used a process similar to that used to produce bifocal spectacles to create the differing radius on the secondary spot, grinding and polishing the outer annulus on the inside of the corrector separately from the "spot", which can be thought of as standing "proud" of the rest of the inside curve of the corrector. In the prism form, it would evidently be possible to create the effect of a meniscus lens (for the Mak corrector) by forming radii on two of the prism faces, or presumably, a four-surface Mak corrector with an additional radius on the third (reflecting) surface of the prism. I do not think that he fully pursued the idea, as it would have obviously involved some pretty fancy fixturing to achieve the proper centering of the curves, with no adverse wedge. Proper centering and other technical production issues are handled using specialized curve generation and polishing machinery, with proper inspection and attention to details. The costs of tooling up would have to be balanced against the market for such a gadget. (N.B., usually a lesser consideration in military or aerospace optics production.) Max was an expert in this type of optics production -- he specialized in the production of small military optics for many years. While I have only a small amount of comparative knowledge in the area of optical production techniques, I did visit Bray's shop on E. Pierce St. in Phoenix (this was prior to the Ad Astra firm being sold to Kimball Organ), and I would characterize his manufacturing equipment as modified opthalmic production machinery, probably typical for small lens and prism production, esp. for a small shop. So we may state that while optical elements combining curved (as opposed to flat, or "extremely long radius") lens surfaces with a prism are feasible, they have evidently only rarely been made in practice, as you comment. There are examples of somewhat larger flat or curved plate "combining glass" elements (also possibly using holographic techniques to simulate lensing) in the "heads up" display sighthead units on modern jet fighters, such as the F-14, F-15, F-16, F-18, etc. These are used to present a reticle pattern (along with other information) to the pilot, projected at infinity. The size of these elements is pretty large, so as to project a large enough beam (typically 4 to 6 inches broad) to accommodate the pilot's head movements. I will defer further comments to Dick Buchroeder, who I believe is an expert on these modern systems. In my earlier career as an avionics and radar tech, I maintained and overhauled the somewhat less sophisticated, 1960s era sightheads on the F-105, F-4, and F-104 radar systems, which used a flat combing glass and large, fast doublet lenses for projection of the reticle. Gene Lucas ------------------- (Peter, while these are "mono-optical" systems, the pilot can view with both eyes -- does that qualify as a binocular?? :>)) ......they qualify as 'biocular', which is an extremely interesting category of visual instrument design. Two eyes, one eyepiece. --Peter ================================================================== Subject: Binocular Repairman Recommendation From: Leong J Tsang I have a CZJ 10 X 50 Jenoptiks that I bought for a friend for stargazing. In daylight conditions, the binocular appears to be razor sharp and steady. However, when he uses it at nighttime for stargazing, he discovered that he is getting split images of the stars and anything that he views through it. Can you give me a list of good repairman who can tell me exactly what is wrong this binocular and what the cost will be to repair it. I am also looking for rear eyecups to use on the rear of the eyepiece of the binocular. Can you point me in the right direction as to whom is selling these. Thanks in advance, Evan Dong ----------------------- We have several good repairmen & restorers on this list. We haven't heard from them in a long time, and I don't know if they're accepting new work, or if they accept all sorts of binoculars for repair. It would be helpful if they would address the list with a short paragraph about their services, location, and estimated waiting period for new jobs. Thanks, Peter ================================= Subject: Prism binocular by Ahrens From: Peter Abrahams A very unusual binocular, possibly from the 1880s, is shown in photographs on the web site. Any further information on this subject is needed. Carston Diederich Ahrens was an important figure in late 19th century instrumentation who is quite overlooked today. He does not appear in the Dictionary of Scientific Biography, nor in the British Dictionary of National Biography. There are no entries in the Astrophysics Data System. His major contributions were in microscopy, but he also designed & produced a hand held binocular telescope. City directories cited by Turner (references below) include 1873, including: Ahrens, prism worker, 5 Baker Street, Lloyd Square, London; and 1874-1880, 373 Liverpool Road, London. Ahrens noted that he made many hundreds of prisms for Wenham binocular microscopes, and also experimental prisms. Ahrens was granted English patent 1710284, 31 December 1884, for 'Improvements in the construction of erecting binocular prisms'. This was similar to the earlier A.A. Boulanger design, using Porro I prisms, and without inspecting the patent, it is unclear what his improvement entailed (although von Rohr states that he did not complete the patent.) The Royal Microscopical Society collection includes a binocular eyepiece 295mm in length, with two eyepieces, by Ahrens, inscribed on the box: "BINOCULAR EYEPIECE FOR HIGH POWERS. BY C.D. AHRENS, LONDON". This was presented to the RMS by Ahrens, 31 October 1877. A calcite prism in the lower tube causes a doubling of the image. A 'double prism' of flint glass achromatizes the beam. Interocular distance is adjutable by a rack & pinion. (RMS Accession no.: 1970-101/part, also marked RMS no. 54, Turner catalogue 416, Inventory no. 91539) Museum History Science Oxford http://www.mhs.ox.ac.uk/database/further.htm?Invno=91539 Zeiss in Jena had an Ahrens binocular for inspection, cited by von Rohr. Another Ahrens binocular telescope, from the Louwman Collection of Historic Telescopes, can be seen in three small images: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/Ahrens-binocular1.jpg 28kb http://home.europa.com/~telscope/Ahrens-binoc-case.jpg 34kb http://home.europa.com/~telscope/Ahrens-b-signature.jpg 52kb Thanks to Peter Louwman for permission to post these images. ----------------------- Ahrens, C.D. On a new form of binocular eye-piece and binocular microscope for high powers. Monthly Microscopical Journal (1871) 113-115. Moritz von Rohr. Die Binokularen Instrumente. Berlin: Springer, 1920. Page 90, double telescope by Ahrens. Emil-Heinz Schmitz. Handbuch zur Geschichte der Optik. Ergaenzungsband. 1, Das Fernrohr. Bonn: J.P. Wayenborgh, 1982. Pages 175-187. Turner, Gerard L'E. The Great Age of the Microscope, The Collection of the Royal Microscopical Society through 150 Years. Bristol: Adam Hilger, 1989. (page 327, binocular eyepiece) ================================================================= ====================================================================== Binocular List #254. 01 May, 2003 ================================================================= Subject: Repair services From: Binofixer@___m Binocular Group Readers, I wanted to take advantage of Peter's last posting and let you all know that my optical shop is open for business. For those of you that don't know me, I am a US Navy Opticalman, and use a Mark-5 collimator with all my projects. I can handle anything from a simple clean and collimate to full restoration, compacts to big eye's. If anyone wants references from current bino list members that I do work for. I'll ask their permission for you to get in touch with theses people for their comments. Some personal background. I was formerly Captain's Nautical Seattle, Senior Optical Tech (after our famous Bill Cook tweaked my rusty skills back into Mil-Spec range) from 90 to 97. Then developed an optical repair shop and optical testing facility at Orion T&B Center in California form 97 to 2000. As for turn around time, that depends on the project itself. The simpler the job, the faster it gets done. No body really wants their work "rushed." I'll stop rambling, If any one wants to contact me and discuss repair projects, e- mail me at binofixer@___m. Cory Suddarth Suddarth Optical Repair Servicing Optics Since 1975 205 W. May St. Henryetta, OK 74437 (918)650-9087 ==================================================================== Subject: Repair services From: "Mike" As Deutsche Optik Service, we continue to do alot of out-of-house repair work. For a quotation, ship the item to us at Deutsche Optik Service, 4606 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA 92120 and we will contact the sender on receipt. E-mail inquiries to info@___heoptik.com. Particulars also appear on our website under the "Contact Us" page. s/ Mike Rivkin ================================================================ Subject: Repair Services From: "William Cook" When I closed my shop the last time, I told our CEO I would not be opening it back up. However, the Seattle economy is in the sewer and marine businesses—even the well- established and respected—are dropping like flies. Consequently, Emery has asked me to open back up as a hedge against us becoming a 106-year old corpse. As a result, I am now taken on about 30% of what we did in the past—some spotting scopes and handheld binoculars—no big eyes or antique telescopes at this point. As far as techniques and equipments: Our reputation speaks to that. However, I would ask anyone to send me an email with exactly what they THINK is wrong with their instrument—along with its maker and vintage—before sending it to me. CAVEAT—folks, I have tried to hold the high ground in doing repair and restoration. The market, however, is not will to pay the price. People all want Smithsonian work and Wal-Mart prices. I just can’t go there. My price for cleaning and collimating current run binos—or those recently out of production—will be very fair for the level of quality offered and the skill brought to bear. Unfortunately, on the older pieces, prices are going to be substantially higher. Lets, say for example you send me a 1939 Leica 7x50 with some clouding and one broken prism. The cost on this would probably be $320+. Some folks would find this too high. I can respect that. However, they do not understand the difficulties of disassembling a binocular in which the sealants have turned to cement, or the time it takes to track down an exact match for a 60-year old prism, or the care that must be taken in de-swaging a couple of objectives without fracturing the micro-thin walled brass. You see, one can be an expert on bino history and still be clueless about what makes’m tick. This time around, I just want to be taking in work from the average guy who wants better than average work done on his average binoculars for a fair price. High maintenance customers have taken me below the profitability level on two other occasions, and I just can’t go there this time. On behalf of the FEW bino craftsmen left out there, I must say that while “collectors” seem to need to chat about their “babies” two or three times a week, a craftsman just can’t waste time accommodating that and keep prices down. So, if you want to give me a shot at some of your work, I am here for you. Finally, I promised that if I should ever put my shingle out again, OM1 Cory Suddarth would go back to being optical “dog meat,” instead of the optics god (little “g”) I have made him out to be. Well, while I would certainly like to have fun with that, there would undoubtedly be some non-English speakers who would take me the wrong way. So, I won’t go there; Cory is top drawer, any time, anywhere. Kindest Regards, Bill Cook, Chief Opticalman, USNR-Ret. Mgr. Precision Instruments & Optics, Captain’s Nautical Supplies, Seattle Freelance lens designer Freelance optics writer ======================================================================= Subject: Amateur Astronomy There's been very little email to the list in the past week. There are 140 of you out there, in maybe a dozen countries, and I will send out lists as fast as I get a half dozen emails. We focus this list on the history of binoculars, with a little attention to current developments. There has been lots of action in several related fields. 'Binoviewers' for amateur telescopes are becoming more popular; there are over 10 models available now, priced from about $400 to $1400. They work very nicely, though are limited to higher powers (compared to the normal range of telescope eyepieces.) Commercial binocular telescopes for amateurs, twinned refractors or reflectors, are also becoming more popular. There are several email lists on 'groups.yahoo.com' relating to amateur astronomy & binoculars / binoviewers. Or you can search the web for binoviewer makers or retailers: Baader / Astrophysics; Televue; Denkmeier; Siebert. A few weeks ago, I emailed the address of a Japanese binocular star party: 'Binoculars and Telescopes Summit', 12-14 October, 2002, Misono, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. http://homepage2.nifty.com/bigbino/summit02/report/report_02-e.html Here is an excerpt from a report from Italy: 31 Oct 2002 From: davide@___eccanica.it Subject: bino-starparty report. Last week-end the 2nd edition of the Italian bino-starparty has taken place near Rome.... There were a Fujinon 25x150, the beautiful Baader Planetarium binoviewer, and many Astromeccanica’s binoscopes owned by different guys: Helios (150mm f/5), Takahashi FS102 (fluorite 102mm f/8), Borg 125ED (125mm f/6.7), Vixen ED114SS (114mm f/5.8), Intes Maksutov (150mm f/12). For deep-sky I concentrated on the Helios, Fujinon, and a Meade LX50 SC12”, while for planets observations I used Taka and Intes maks (both a single MK67 with binoviewer and MK66 binoscope). Binoscoping in the Helios was an unforgettable experience: we used both 30mm widescan2 (25x with 82º AFOV) and Meade UWA6.7 (112x, again at 82º) with and without O3 interferential filters. Solar system observations were done in the Takahashi binoscope with Lanthanum 2.5mm (330x) and the Intes 150mm maks (used with many eyepieces, from 200x to 350x). Both an Astromeccanica Intes binoscope and a standard Intes instrument (alone or with Baader binoviewer) were used. You can find some photos of the previous edition (and as soon as possible of the last one, I think) on the websites: http://www.asam.da.ru (click on “binostarparty”) http://www.astromeccanica.it (click on “about us” and/or the link in the popup window) Davide Del Vento http://www.astromeccanica.it ============================================================================= ============================================================================= Binocular List #255: 05 May 2003 ========================================================================= Subject: Fungus From: Peter Abrahams A long time ago, I ran across a reference to an article in a journal that I never thought I'd see: Indian Journal of Technology, from 1963. But University of Washington, Seattle, has it, and I copied it a couple of months ago. Footnoted in this article were some hopelessly obscure military publications; and also a text from the journal 'Nature', which is found in any college library. The Nature article has information that is possibly very useful. During WWII, programs to research & treat fungus in optical instruments were undertaken in Australia. They began using the compound sodium ethylmercurithiosalicylate, now known as Thimerosal & widely used in vaccines, eye drops, nasal sprays, ear & other topical products. It was mixed with the paint & sealers used inside the binocular body. This was quite effective, and I believe Thimerosal shouldn't be too hard to obtain. Have any of the repairmen / restorers on this list used this compound? Are there any physicians or chemists who know how a person could obtain this? I scanned these articles, added some other texts, and placed on the web site a long page on fungus in optical instruments: http://www.europa.com/~telscope/fungus.txt These WWII articles mention lens cements - balsam and n-butyl methacrylate.....I'm not sure what methacrylate is. I know there were synthetic lens cements 60 years ago, presumably this is one of them. They also use the term 'luting', which was new to me and means sealing. Can anyone locate this document; it could be very helpful: Baker, P.W. Bibliography on Tropic Proofing of Optical Instruments. Royal Radar Establishment Tech. Note 747. Malvern, England. 1969. A Zeiss question: Some on line sources note a paper on lens fungus issued by Zeiss in the 60s, but there are no citations....does anyone have a reference to this? Here is the introduction I put with fungus.txt: Many old optical instruments have fungus growth on a glass surface. Fungus does not look like haze but has an appearance like hairs or tendrils branching from a center. While the fungus can be removed by cleaning, it frequently has etched the glass, since fungi secrete enzymes and acids to chemically alter their environment so they can absorb nutrients. This etching requires repolishing, which if done unprofessionally will ruin the instrument. It is not possible to tell if the glass is etched until the fungus is cleaned. Maintenance of optical instruments involves prevention of future fungus problems, especially if located in damp regions. To sum up the lengthy documentation below: --WWII research programs on fungus in optical instruments (Turner, below) used sodium ethylmercurithiosalicylate, now known as Thimerosal and widely used consumer medical products. When mixed in paint used inside the binocular, this was found effective at preventing fungus. It is not known if Thimerosal is so used today. --Hydrogen peroxide, or bleach, can be used to kill fungus. --Leitz documents describe a fungus treatment of 94% distilled water, 4% clear ammonia (for cleansing) and 2% hydrogen peroxide (to kill fungus). --Carl Zeiss Oberkochen, dept. KuDi, sells: Fungus Cleaning Agent "Fungusreiniger NEU". Dilute with ethyl alchohol, leave on glass for one hour or more, then clean. Not poisonous but avoid contact with skin. 100ml bottle, INR 0117.362 500ml bottle, INR 0117.361 1000ml bottle, INR 0117.360 --Notes on treatment & prevention are found at the end of this text. =============================================================== Subject: Danish Galilean From: Well, in response to the request for more people to respond to the list, I have added a page on my geocities homepage. I recently acquired a danish military marked galilean binocular. Same type as shown in Dr. Seegers book abb7 ( picture 7) As I already had a german version of this binocular, I have taken some pics and put it all on a page, with comments. http://www.geocities.com/mikedenmark/plc3/armeglas.htm Let me know, if you can´t see the pics, then I will have to look into it. Btw..I got the german bino through eBay, one of my very few purchases on eBay...astonishing 6 weeks delivery time, at a postal rate of $ 2.-From the Appalaches in the US. Seems the local post only comes by, once a week. Maybe Lil Abner´s granddad brought it back home in WW1? Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___ele.dk -------------------- Also check out the other unusual binoculars on Mike's site http://geocities.com/mikedenmark/germanoptic/gallery/itemlist.html ================================================== Subject: USN Bigeyes From: "Steve Stayton" I ran across these two nice US Navy pictures recently. I don't how long they will be posted so get a look while they are still there: http://www.atlanticfleet.navy.mil/mtwhitney-bigeyes0419.htm http://www.atlanticfleet.navy.mil/tr-bigeyes0131.htm Steve Stayton ================================================== Subject: Optical equipment repair From: "Rolf Penzias" I have not written to the list in awhile, but have been following various items of interest. On the subject of repair it very heartening in a world of the pervasive throwaway mentality, goods, gadgets and electronics, to still have old school technicians like Bill Cook and others around. Regards, Rolf Penzias penzias@___l.com =================================================== Subject: American Optical From: Peter Abrahams There is a very large web site on the history of American Optical company: http://web.meganet.net/dickwhitney/RBWAOHistoryIndex.html There is nothing on binoculars or telescopes on the site; and I emailed the author, who replied that he didn't have any knowledge of AO binoculars. An American Optical catalog from 1935 'Optical Specialties' has 13 pages of prism binoculars & Galilean field glasses, but they very much appear to be imports. Also in 1935, AO acquired Spencer. During WWII, a very large quantity of 'Spencer' binoculars were manufactured, though I have no production figures. Some are noted to be 'from commercial stock', but this is unlikely; they are military form & no ads or other notes about a commercial model are known. Some are unusual models, all are very well made. US Navy models include 6 x 30, 7 x 35, and 7 x 50 configuration, and some were sold to consumers after the war. The Spencer 7 x 50s are distinguished by their prisms - oversized objective prism & undersized eyepiece prism, a larger eyepiece, and a field of view that is wider by one half a degree than the standard WWII 7 x 50, with an apparent field of view of 7 degrees, 39 seconds. The 6 x 30 has also been found marked USMC. A previously unknown Mark has recently been found, the Spencer Mk 18 7 x 35 USN Bu Aero. So the questions are, who designed these, where were they made, why are they marked Spencer, & why is there so little record of them at AO & elsewhere - given all the Marks & Mods, there must have been tens or hundreds of thousands made. ---- This chart of Spencer WWII models displays well in Courier font, after you remove the line breaks that email will insert: SCHEDULE OF BINOCULARS, NAVY DEPARTMENT, BUREAU OF SHIPS, FILE NUMBER S2407 - 533074. 8|2|44. MK | MOD | GENERAL ARRANGEMENT | CONTRACTOR | MAGNIFICATION | APERTURE | FIELD (DEGREES) | EYE RELIEF, MM | TRANSMISSION % | BUREAU | STATUS (1944) | REMARKS 3 | 0 | -------- | SPENCER| 7 | 50 |7d39'| 14.5 | ---- | SHIPS | OBS. | TAPERED AXLE 3 | 1 | 481746-S | SPENCER| 6 | 30 |8d54'| 11.3 | 55 | SHIPS | OBS. | COMMERCIAL STOCK 3 | 3 | -------- | SPENCER| 6 | 30 |8d54'| 11.3 | 55 | SHIPS | OBS. | 3 | 4 | -------- | SPENCER| 7 | 50 | --- | ---- | ---- | SHIPS | OBS. | COMMERCIAL STOCK 3 | 5 | 494021-S | SPENCER| 7 | 50 |7d39'| 14.5 | 57.8 | SHIPS | OBS. | COMMERCIAL STOCK 13| 5 | 300872-O | SPENCER| 7 | 50 |7d39'| 16 | 57.8 | SHIPS | OBS. | 17| 0 | -------- | SPENCER| 7 | 35 |7d38'| 11 | 80 | AERO |EXPMTL.| 19| 0 | 300853-O | SPENCER| 6 | 30 |8d54'| 11.3 | 55 | MARINE| ----- | MIL SCALE - LEFT BARREL 20| - | 300864-O | SPENCER| 7 | 35 |7d10'| 10.7 | 56 | MARINE| ----- | 30| 0 | 494040-S | SPENCER| 7 | 50 |7d39'| 14.5 | 57.8 | SHIPS | CURR. | WATERPROOF 31| 0 | 481756-S | SPENCER| 6 | 30 |8d54'| 11.3 | 55 | SHIPS | OBS. | COMMERCIAL STOCK ============================================================== ============================================================== Binocular List #256: 12 May 2003 ============================================================== Subject: Albert Koenig From: Peter Abrahams Albert Koenig was a lens designer for Zeiss, who was responsible for the many types of Koenig eyepiece and the Zeiss 'B' apochromatic telescope objective circa 1930. He was co-designer of the Abbe-Koenig prism and accomplished much more in a long career at Zeiss. There has been no English language information on Koenig. A text has been posted with a summary of his optical work; and a translation, by Chris Plicht, of Horst Koehler's tribute to Koenig. http://home.europa.com/~telscope/koenig.txt Any further information on Koenig would be very welcome. ====================================================== From: Peter Abrahams I have posted two images of a very unusual binocular by the German optical company Merz. Courtesy of the Louwman Collection of Historic Telescopes. http://home.europa.com/~telscope/Merz-binoc2.jpg 99kb http://home.europa.com/~telscope/MerzBinoc.jpg 123kb] Some information about Merz is available at: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/tsgerman.txt ========================================================= Subject: Deutsche Optik new model From: "Mike" An update on our Porro-II binocular project (the first sample of which was passed around at the collector's meeting in February to much enthusiasm). At present, we're still dickering with the manufacturer and gasping at the tooling costs. To begin with, tooling costs will be reduced if we go to a IF model, but a 7x50 IF binocular screams for rubber armoring and we're back to a tooling problem. As an alternative, we could go with a buffed and polished look to create a living room binocular, but the market for such a 7x50 is unknown and somewhat dubious. Thus, I'm beseeching your readers for feedback: should we (a) add the IF and armor and position it as a marine glass; (b) add the IF and no armor for astronomers and general use; (c) add the IF and polish for a living room look, or (d) stay with the CF feature for birders and a generally wider appeal? On other fronts, our latest (Summer) catalogue is now on-line and will be in the mail shortly. We've also purchased a small lot of those gorgeous Swiss Army Leicas we've had previously. This is the light weight 8x30 model with rubber armor and laser protection filters, and these will also include an unusual monopod by Bolex. You won't see them in the current catalogue, but they'll be available early this summer. Finally, we still have a handful of the estate binoculars (see list #252) remaining in stock, and I would like to clear the lot. All reasonable offers considered; please call or e-mail to discuss. Thank you! s/ Mike Rivkin Deutsche Optik ---------- From: Peter Abrahams Personally.....I don't like the look of rubber, but it is very helpful in preventing damage from shock. That makes it a tough choice, unless it was so expensive to tool up for rubber, that you had no choice. Without rubber you can get a clean high tech machined look that I really like. Rubber 'hides all faults'. I'm not sure what you mean by buffed, but a non reflective dark matte finish is much more practical. Anything that glints should be avoided. I think a medium grey would be: 1.unusual, stands out in crowd of binoculars. 2, shows the lines & design of the glass much better than black. 3, doesn't get as hot in the sun which is a big problem with black in my thinking. Some list members are the macho types who wouldn't be caught dead with a CF glass. But my opinion is that you'd eliminate a lot of potential customers with IF. I personally prefer CF. CF can be quite water resistant but probably at a cost. --Peter ===================================================== From list 255: >>Thimerosal fungus treatment...... n-butyl methacrylate lens cements Subject: Thimerosal From: "peter de laet" Thimerosal is a highly toxic mercury contianing compound still used in medicine today. It shouldn't be all to difficult to trace the producers of the stuff. I will try to get my hands on an address, and will keep you posted. Best regards, Peter de Laet, MD ========================= Subject: Thimerosal; and Polymethylmethacrylate (PMM) From: "Lucas, Gene" I believe Thimerosal is the active ingredient in some types of contact lens wash solutions. This presents a problem for some people (including myself), who are allergic to the chemical. I was having a severe irritation problem with my contacts until I noted that the solution I was using (supplied by the contact lens manufacturer) contained Thimerosal. My experience was that the sensitivity continued to increase with use, as well. Fortunately, there are other types of contact lens solutions that do not contain Thimerosal. Contact lenses develop a milky coating from prolonged exposure to the wet, bacteria laden environment in the eye, thus the need for daily removal and cleaning. I would speculate that perhaps a contact lens cleaning solution might be of use in eliminating fungus on, say, binocular optics. The problem would be to determine the "therapeutic" dosage. Methacrylate is the chemical name of the precursor compound for a class of transparent plastic polymers -- to quote the Merriam Webster dictionary, "Polymethylmethacrylate (1936) is a thermoplastic resin of polymerized methyl methacrylate which is characterized by its optical clarity." and, "Methacrylonitrile, CH2:C(CH3)CN, Clear, colorless liquid boiling at 90 deg C; used to make solvent- resistant thermoplasic polymers and copolymers." (See also similar entries for methacrylate ester and methacrylic acid). From the McGraw-Hill Dictionary of Scientific Terms: Polymethylmethacrylate -- thermoplastic polymer derived from methyl methacrylate, CH2==C(CH3)COOCH3; transparent solid with excellent optical qualities and water resistance; used for aircraft domes, lighting fixtures, optical instruments, and surgical appliances. Sometimes abbreviated PMM, this is one of the earliest plastics used for lenses. I believe "Plexiglas" is a Dupont trademark for similar transparent solid plastic compounds. n-Butyl Methacrylate is evidently a clear liquid that would be polymerized (changed into the solid form) by the addition of some chemical agent and probably heat. Some forms of modern optical cements contain the two chemicals (plastic precursor and polymerizing agent) in a liquid solution, and are activated (polymerized to form the solid) by exposure to heat or to Ultraviolet (UV) light. This "hardening" action is different than for traditional Canadian balsam, which hardens by drying when heated, or evolution of the natural solvents. Balsam also can deteriorate with exposure to heat, light, humidity, fungus, and age. The modern plastic resins are designed and rigorously tested for superior resistance to all of these agents. I can't locate a reference that gives the refractive index for PMM just now. It is somewhat lower than for glass. The advantage in making complete lenses of thermoplastic resins is in volume production by molding the lenses, avoiding the grinding and polishing operations. Plastic lenses are now very common in all kinds of inexpensive equipment. They are seldom used for precision lenses, partly due to the problem of poor scratch resistance. Of course, Peter's initial comment was concerning the use of the plastic in liquid form as a cement. Gene Lucas (17250) =========================================================== Subject: French vocabulary, unusual model from France I wrote to list member Jean Laurent Pernice: > Can I ask you a few questions about the meaning of French words? > --Jumelle. This can mean prism binocular, or Galilean opera glass? > --Is there another word for 'binoculars' in French? binoculaire? > --Lunette d'approche. Does this mean a terrestrial, 'birding scope' Can it mean 'rifle scope', to mount on a small gun? > --Longues-vues Is this word still used? Does it mean hand held telescope? > --Lunetiers: There was a Societe des Lunetiers, Paris, maybe they made spectacles only > Also, See the great pictures at: http://histv2.free.fr/19/voir.htm From: "jean-laurent.pernice" Napoleon has been very frequently painted with a observation monocular on his hand . The meaning of jumelle is double in french. first is twin the second is the same than binocular or binoculars (you can write and say one " jumelle "or one pair of "jumelles " . This word is not specific for galilean or prismatic binoculars or opera glass , you can use " jumelle or jumelles " to speak about the 3 optics . The others words for binoculars are " binoculaire " or "lunette binoculaire " The word binoculaire is use to describe the binoculars and also optic like microscope . The word " lunette " has 3 significations , first is most common it is glasses the others are observation monocular (marine monocular or terrestrial monocular or astronomical monocular ) or a binoculars and in this case we speak of galilean binoculars. The Lunettier is the man who built the "lunette " glasses . Futher more the word of lunettier when you speak about binoculars is i think most pejorative and it was used by manufacturer of prismatic binoculars at the beginning of the 20 th century to describe optic of poor quality For lunette d'approche i think that there is no specific signification or maybe in military vocabulary . .(just optic which allowed to be close to an object ) For the longue vue the meaning is hand held telescope for astronomical , terrestrial or marine use .this word is still in use . Maybe you can help me to identify one binocular . Size of the objective 50 mm , magnification almost 8 , reticle on the left eye piece ( a cross ) and eye piece inclined at 90 degrees. Probably french but i not see any markings . Regards Jean-Laurent ---------- http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/bin.Fr.un.id.50mm.8x.cross.reticle1.jpg 395kb http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/bin.Fr.un.id.50mm.8x.cross.reticle2.jpg 343kb (I've never seen anything like this model. --Peter) =========================================================== From: "Lucas, Gene" Subject: Gyro-stabilized "Big Eyes" in ocean survey The following web page describes 1986-1990 visual ocean surveys of seabirds to also track dolphins, porpoises, and whales using "25X gyro-stabilized big eyes" binoculars. There is a photo of a crewmember sighting through what appear to be 25x100 (or so) straight-throughbinoculars with some equipment underneath, presumably the gyro-stabilizer. The picture is too dark to make out much detail. Can anybody comment or give info on this gyro mod to what appears to be the standard Litton EOS "Big Eyes" (or maybe a possilbe Russian big eyes)? http://www.montereybay.com/creagrus/ETP_cetaceans.html Gene Lucas (17250) -------------- I can't imagine how those could be gyro stabilized; I'd guess it was a mistake in writing up the project. But there's a lot I haven't seen. --Peter ====== Subject: Another Big Eyes news photo & other web pages From: "Lucas, Gene" Shreveport Times photo (search on "binoculars"in this page to find this one) http://www.shreveporttimes.com/photo/galleries/gtmo1/photo9.html Lance Cpl. Jason Black, 21, from Shreveport, looks through a pair of "Big Eyes" binoculars while Cpl. Paul Carpenter, 27, from North Richland Hill, TX, stands on duty at the North East Gate in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Both men are members of the U.S. Marine Company B, 1st Battalion, 23rd Marine Regiment based in Bossier City, Louisiana. ------- Subject: Aother interesting web page with German optics and books Here is another interesting web page that offers the Seeger books, and a number of interesting surplus German (and other) military optics items. Binoculars, theodolites, periscopic sights, rangefinders, tripods, surveying instruments, etc. -- including some spare parts for German binoculars. Prices in Euros. http://www.hegeroptik.de/index.html There is one section in English, but don't hesitate to "shop around" the other German language sections to find more stuff of interest. Gene Lucas (17250) -------- Subject: Canadian Navy Big Eyes Another web page with a good photo of "Big Eyes" at work. Canadian Big Eyes http://www.navy.forces.gc.ca/mspa_gallery/gallery_e.asp?x=1&page=9 "May 9, 2002 - Somewhere in the Arabian Sea - On the bridge wing of the destroyer HMCS ALGONQUIN, tactical acoustic sensor operator Leading Seaman Robb Franklin of Sudbury, Ontario uses the "big eyes" (long-range binoculars) to watch the British supply ship RFA Fort George sail by. HMCS Algonquin is deployed on Operation APOLLO, Canada's military contribution to the international campaign against terrorism." This web page looks like it is planned to index lots of photos of Navy stuff, including "Driectors" which are the large ship mounted rangefinders. I can only view the stuff using Internet Exploder! http://navalhistory.flixco.info/ ----------- Subject: Web page with stuff on Soviet T-72 tank equipment Here is a Web page with stuff on Soviet T-72 tank equipment, including SOME stuff on the sights and "biocular" rangefinder. Just found this, haven't read through it. Could be lots of stuff here to wade through. AFV Interiors -- cover shot shows binocular (?) sighthead on Soviet T-72 tank http://www.kithobbyist.com/AFVInteriors/ Commander's binocular periscopic sights -- see pictures 10 and 14 This reminds me of a US tank periscope that was surplused out in the 1960s-70s. http://www.kithobbyist.com/AFVInteriors/t72/t72a.html Look at pictures 11 and 12. http://www.kithobbyist.com/AFVInteriors/t72/t72b.html Commander's sight -- look at picture 4 http://www.kithobbyist.com/AFVInteriors/t72/t72c.html --------- Subject: WWII Army rangefinder web sites The following web page from the Northwest Historical Association (WWII historical re-enactors and enthusiasts) consists of an article on use of the Vickers machine gun, and includes photos of a Barr and Stroud optical rangefinder, a clinometer, and a Vickers "dial sight" which looks like half of a binocular on an azimuth dial mounted on a tripod. http://www.nwha.org/news_2Q2001/news_page4.html "Several special instruments were developed for use with the Vickers. The first was the clinometer, a device that was attached to the tripod. As the barrel was raised it could be measured against the clinometer to find the angle of elevation. In 1939 the clinometer was replaced with the more sophisticated dial sight. A Barr & Stroud rangefinder (which looks quite similar to the model used by German artillerymen) was used to determine the range to targets. If the target was out of the line-of-sight then a map could be used to obtain the range along with either a slide rule or range table for calculating the proper gun elevation. In addition there were charts for determining adjustments du to the relative elevation of the target to the gun and for wind speed and atmospheric conditions." This site is selling a Swiss/Swedish Wild M41 WWII rangefinder (nice photo): http://www.samcoglobal.com/access.html More pics and higher price for the Wild M41 (note 1972 placard) http://www.simpsonltd.com/Wild%20Rangefinder.htm A HUGE Norwegian rangefinder (search site for "rangefinder") that serviced a captured 280mm gun http://www.fortunecity.com/victorian/lexington/12/fortresses/soertroendelag/oerlandet.h tm Gene Lucas (17250) =================================================================================== =================================================================================== Binocular List #257: 18 May 2003. =================================================================== Subject: Fungus/Inst. Repair, etc, From: "Osborn Optical Systems" An interesting note on fungus-proofing can be found in the Army TM9-1603, dated 1951. It states, "Because the active fungicidal element employed tends to speed up corrosive action on metallic finishes and soften optical cements, fungicidal capsuls will be used only in those instruments which are being rendered unserviceable or which experience has shown will be rendered unserviceable by fungal growth." Repairs. I've been out of town for the last few binolist's (restoring several WWII, 13 1/2 ft. rangefinders) so I didn't drop the Osborn Optical Systems name in the repair & service pile. Just a reminder, we perform any type of repair or restoration, to any type of optical instrumentation. We have about a dozen different types of collimator systems ranging from 1" up to 12" and can hold accuracies to 1/10 arc second. Our restoration and repair work has been unmatched, period. A quick note about the U.S.N. 9x63, a number of these were made from parts kits in the 1970's utilizing the Mk32, 7x50 bodies. A word of warning. In the last few months, we have seen a number of the Russian 15x110 military mounted binoculars. All of them had been purchased on eBay from sellers in Russia at about half the price of "new, in the store" instruments and upon reciept by the winners, were delivered to us for "not being right". Upon inspection, they appear to have been assembled from floor sweepings at the factory or depot. The insides have all had considerable rust and dirt, a wide variety of incorrect screws and poor fitting parts, not to mention the lack of proper optical assembly or collimation. Unlike the earlier units that seemed to have been made for military contract, these, must be made of left-overs or reject parts. They can be made workable, but by the time a technician is done, they cost as much as a full price unit! ------- These WWII 13 1/2 ft. rangefinders are at the Fort MacArthur museum in San Pedro, CA, which is actually a part of Long Beach these days. They are in storage until I am done with them, at which point they will indeed be on display. I am trying to have one done by the 4th of July. I'd like to ask the list if anyone has an Army M2 or even civilian B&L 8x56 that they would be willing to donate or sell to the museum. These were used on the W.W.II Army anti-aircraft fire control directors of which the museum has one which has been restored, but is lacking the binocular. I can provide a receipt and non-profit tax deduction information for anyone willing to donate this binocular. Take it easy, Earl -------------------- The M1 was an 8 x 56, with oculars set at about 80 degrees to the body, made by Keuffel & Esser for use with Height Finder T9E1, which was cancelled and 'no more than a pilot Binocular M1 was ever made'. The M2 was an 8 x 56 by B & L, for searchlight control, issued to the Engineer Corps, and 2,476 were procured at $70. (Source: Frankford Arsenal. Encyclopedia of Army Ordnance Binoculars. Philadelphia, no date, after 1944.) =========================================================== Subject: Thiomersol (fungus preventive) From: Thiomersol is readily available-my hospital pharmacy stocks it-the pharm tech indicates the common name is merthiolate. Both merthiolate and mercurochrome were very common mercury/alcohol based topical antiseptics used to sterilize instruments by soaking and as a skin antiseptic. I believe mercurchrome had the characteristic red orange color; an advantage when using, as it showed clearly the areas treated. Mercury concerns has decreased their use in recent years but they have the advantage of not causing antibiotic resistance as the use of topical antibiotic ointments may. They can be irritating. Methymethacrylate is used as tissue glue by surgeons. I believe commonly available super glues are chemically closely related. Arnie ===================================================================== Subject: fungus treatment From: guus kasteel Probably enough has been said at the list or in the fungus.txt on the mode of action of thimerosal. The thing I would like to add is that thimerosal (the nonproprietary name) is available from most chemical suppliers in small quantities such as Sigma- Aldrich and should be easily obtained via a local chemist. They probably will not sell to individuals. Though it is still widely used in injection, ophthalmic or topical solutions, please note that the concentration in medical use is much lower as stated in the fungus.txt paper; 0.2% versus 0.01 to 0.001%. Handling the pure component requires certain safety measures to avoid absorption via inhalation (dust) or via the skin (!). Very similar to the fungus problem in optical instrument, electronic equipment may be damaged by fungi. Many of you will be familiar with the typical color and smell of the interior of WWII (and later) military electronic equipment. This is caused by coating used for moisture and fungus proofing, developed by the Signal Corps Ground Signal Agency. The spray paint was fortified with salicylanilide, phenyl-mercury- salicylate (a similar compound as thimerosal) and pentachloorfenol. I have no idea on the concentrations. Guus Duchateau ================================================================== Subject: Re: stripping and coating of small lens lots From: rab I've made the acquaintance of Mr. Al Misiuk, a coating pro at Sirius Optics, who is stripping the golden coatings off my 30x180 binocular objectives. Al has expressed a willingness to discuss small-lot, custom coating services for people like us. I'm reluctant to mention what he's charging me, since I don't think he's charging enough. His email addresses are as follows. misiukal@___l.com amisiuk@___optics.com Regards, Dick Buchroeder --------------------- Stripping coatings is not something we'd need done very often, but it requires experience to know how to approach each optic element. Treatments that will remove coatings can also attack glass. Misiuk has a good reputation. --Peter ===================================================================== Subject: Review Kronos There's a long review of the Kronos BPWC2 6x30 binocular, by Holger Merlitz, at: http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/kronos6x30.html =================================================================== Subject: Hercules 18mm binocular From: "Loren A. Busch" A friend would really be pleased if someone could identify these and might have an eyecup replacement. Marked "Hercules" 6(8?)x18, and Made in Occupied Japan. I loaded images to a Web page: http://home.netcom.com/~lbusch/mysterybinoculars/ ---------- I haven't seen this Hercules before, the design is a little different than the typical Japanese 'open frame'. Eyecups: Taking them to repair shops & hoping a more recent eyecup fits, is one possiblity. I've lathe-turned workable eyecups out of ebony. Others are casting duplicates of eyecups using resin. --Peter ============================================================ Subject: The Porro II Dilemma From: Kennyj2@___m It is refreshingly unusual to be asked for opinions on any binocular at the design stage , and not as easy once put on the spot to make a sensible suggestion . I think that although a Centre Focus bino is certainly much more appealing to the great majority of binocular users , I have a feeling that for all but boating and some hard -core "old fashioned " astro -use , a 7 x 50 Porro configuration is becoming somewhat out of vogue . Most serious birders these days seem to prefer water -proof roofs ( even though IMHO the image through all but the VERY best is inferior to that through a good porro such as the Nikon Superior E range ) and there seems to be a trend towards higher -power models from 8.5 through to even 12x. Many amateur astronomers seem to be slowly realising that the traditionally favoured and thus oft recommended 7mm exit pupil is surplus to requirements in probably 90% of viewing situations . That is to say that it may be ideal for a 20 year old person in a really dark sky location but for a 50 year old in average conditions , a 7 x 42 or even 7 x 35 performs just as well , usually with the added bonus of wider fields of view So , although personally I find Individual focussing a bit of a pain ( and can think of more interesting uses of rubber than covering binoculars with it ) : - ) , for what it's worth my advice is , regardless of tooling costs , go for the sailing and astronomy market and stick with IF and rubber . Regards to all - Kenny . ====================================================== Subject: New Porro II From: gordiray@___t Why not get the Kamakuras or one of their or some other Chinese factory to copy the now widely publicized KM blc 8 x 60 Porro II IF no rubber? Why no rubber?-because it adds lots or weight which is better alloted elsewhere in the package. The 7.5mm pupil gives the rotating eyeball more margin for scanning the field while fully dilated on a boat, at night, in a vibrating helicopter, etc. Recall that the eye pupil is not at the center of eyeball rotation. I have a dkl 10 x 80 Busch type to which blc/eug oculars from the 80 deg inclined 10 x 80 were hybridized. Their f.l. is longer than the Busch type 28mm. so the hybrid has magnification lower than 10. Those 6 element oculars, which seem to have also been used on the deck mount 8 x 60 (?). synch beautifully with the Busch objectives and prisms, at least subjectively. I acquired it already hybridized,and it seems more comfortable than the unmodified Busch l0 x 80. Everybody is selling 7 x 50 . Ridiculous red blocking coatings are used as gimmicks for distinction. Wide field, big eyepiece, rugged,big prism , glue minimized , rubber free in 8 x 60 or 9 x 70 succeed. High cost? recall the many SLR camera lenses , which require tighter tolerances than eyepieces, were selling for far less than telescope eyepieces of similar dimensions and component counts, even with the focuser included. --Gordon Rayner =========================================================== Subject: Porro II Project From: "James J. Gorman" As one who much prefers the Porro II configuration to the Porro I, for perhaps idiosyncratic reasons of hand fit and "feel", I am much interested in the DO Porro II project. With respect to Mike Rivkin's request for feedback, I would suggest CF and a pebbled synthetic gray covering for widest appeal. The last polished binocular I recall was the ill-fated silver version of the Rollei/AVIMO 7 x 42. I most often use IF in daily walks in the fields with the dog, but most acquaintances who regularly use binoculars, whether for birding or marine use prefer CF. A very nice 7 x 50 Porro II glass was by Kershaw, named "Vanguard". It seems to me a modernized version of the Ross/Kershaw No. 5 Military glass, but I have been unable to find reference to it in my admittedly modest binocular library. It has a butter- smooth if unusual CF arrangement, with some internal mechanism, rather than an external bridge connecting the oculars. The image is quite excellent, being very bright and sharp, with only quite minor edge distortion. The color rendition is superb, and the contrast excellent without being overbearing. Mine has a small collimation error, some minor dirt and fungus, and the left ocular barrel appears to have been dislodged and imperfectly reset. With that, however, it is a truly excellent field glass. It has the feel of an early 50's design, with a serial no. 53681, though whether Kershaw ran all their binocs. in the same series I do not know. I would be much interested if anyone knows something about this binocular, and wonder whether it is similar in concept to the DO project glass. Take Care, Jim Gorman ----------- Jim sent some .jpgs, but I am over-committed now & don't have time to ftp them. The Vanguard is a unique design, with odd curved prism housings that look like they were designed by an art deco committee, but are quite comfortable to hold. I like it, but I'm not sure anyone would want to replicate it! The Deutsche Optik design is more of a classical 'tuna can' Porro II. Somehow no good photos of it were taken at the Feb. meeting. I don't find any background on the Kershaw Vanguard; I know they were make in 7x, 10x, & 12x; and that internal focus would make for a very interesting disassembly. --Peter ==================================================================== ==================================================================== Binocular List #258: 03 June 2003 ================================================== Subject: Substandard products From: afeldman I found Earl Osborne's mentioning about the "parts '15x110'" binocs coming out of Russia a little "deja vu." I recall back in the middle 1990's, there was an influx of 85 size Russian nautical Chronometers. Here too they tended to look cosmetically okay at first glance, but even a less than careful examination revealed exactly the same things as Earl found, i.e. incorrect screws, wrong parts, and in general, to use Earl's comment, "floor sweepings." I later found out from reliable sources that there was a small "cottage industry" Poland that specialized in cobbling together all manner of fakes, including, but certainly not limited to, WWII German Military "Leica" cameras made from Russian Zorkis(?). Interestingly enough the industry is alive and well and still produces counterfeit orders and medals, of rather good quality actually. However, I suppose due to the "nature of the beast," I cannot recall ever having seen any quantity of counterfeit items of an "optical" nature. Obviously opportunity and the "demand" will always engender such ... Cheers, Allen =================================================== Subject: Porro II from D.O. From: Arthur Tenenholtz It would seem to me that very few birders would be interested in a 7x50. Birders may go for a 7x42, but seem to prefer an 8 power with large objectives. Those who mentioned that 7x50 is generally overkill are supported by RoyBishop in his article on binoculars for astronomy in the current OBSERVER'SHANDBOOK of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. However, Bishop holds that the excess of the exit pupil size, over the maximum pupil diameterof the over thirty set, provides a "picture window," which allows for finding or holding a target or ease for those who are on a moving platform. This is especially useful for the marine set and not without value for others. Of course, I cannot understand why anyone would want a new Porro II 7x50when the British #5 glass is available from Deutsche Optik for $200, unless modern coating , and a Porro II design, promise to make a spectacularly contrasty and bright image. Is this theoretically the outcome of such a design? Would not such a glass have to be at least 40% brighter than the current Fujinon Polaris or the Zeiss 7x50 BGA glasses, for anyone to really notice? As for configuration, I would opt for the most secure prism mountings, the Achilles' heel of any Porro compared to a roof prism glass; individual focussing, for their watertight integrity, and a nice retro pebbled finish in shade lighter than black. This might appeal to backyard astronomer or to a hunter, as well as a yachtman. Of course, someone would still have to convice me why I should buy this binocular in addition to my modern 7x50 glass and my reliable Leitz Marseptit. I should note that Fujinon, on the registration card, asks how large is their boat, of the purchasers of its porro glasses. Well, occasionally, I do ride the Staten Island Ferry which must be nearly 100 meters long... Arthur Tenenholtz ===================================================== Subject: optical and film supply From: "David Hoyt" I received my 7x50 optical and film supply co. new york usa. it is mint, in the original leather case and web neckstrap. it has a small broad arrow under the name. serial 3757. it apprears to be a quality glass. has the two filters in the lid pouch. I would be pleased to learn more about this ww2 supplier. ======================================================== Subject: Serial numbers From: Another short piece of info on serial numbers: The danish military received two mittlere Blinkgerät 1916 Model II on 6th of march 1918. from Zeiss. The two monocular 4x20 for these had the serial numbers:941950 and 940124. Michael Simonsen ============================================================== ============================================================== Binocular List #259: 12 June 2003 ========================================================= Subject: Hensoldt serial numbers From: "Phil Anglin" I am interested in finding information on the Hensoldt binocular serial number ranges for the various binocular models. Specifically for the period of 1930 thru about 1950. I am particularly interesting in knowing if Hensoldt started out with a new serial range after WWII. That is did they start at '01" again and go up from there? The reason I ask is because I have encountered many sets of Hensoldt binoculars that I assumed to be pre-war (these were not military coded or deinstglass marked) that bore low 5 digit serial numbers, in the 15,000 to 30,000 range. I have also encountered the same model glasses that were military marked that tend to bear medium range 6 digit numbers (i.e. 300,000 range). I was also curious if Hensoldt assigned a specific serial range for each model that they made. If I could study a sample of say 1000 sets of Hensoldt binoculars I may be able to sort these questions out, of course this opportunity is not likely! Thanks Philip --------- I have not seen any documentation on Hensoldt serial numbers. If such a list is known, please share it with us. --Peter ============================================================= Subject: Old Naval Binoculars From: "Harry Cavanagh" Can anyone offer information or help. I have for repair/overhaul an old binocular as follows. The appear to be from a German naval ship. The nameplate/decal has been removed. Name: FARTGLAS WECHSLER Inter-ocular distance adjust: AUGEN-ABSTAND Moderating glass/filters: NACHT Weight: Approx 10 -12 pounds Magnification: 20 (?) The ray shades can be raised. There is the remains of an adjustable head rest to enable comfortable viewing/eyepiece distance. The eyecups are missing. Eyepieces have individual focus. L/H side has a graticule - a circle with a small (+) plus sign in the centre. There is the letter 'T' engraved on one of the prism housings. There was a graticule illumination which is missing. The R/H side is very dirty and in need of cleaning. L/H side OK. There is an open sight for quick alignment. The adapter for mounting on a stand is missing. Any information would be most helpful. Thanks Harry Cavanagh Ph.353 -(0)1-8477348 mailto: ======================================================= Subject: Russian quality control. From: I have spoken with a number of people who have been involved in Russian industrial production over the years. The crux of the matter is that there was only a military industry. Essentially only products of military application were made. Design and engineering were generally excellent. The limited availability of materials and modern (not 1930's stolen German or 1950-1990 US tech obtained by espionage)industrial techniques perforce modified those designs. Actual construction was driven by arbitrary quotas for production with no regard for the quality of the final goods. After production the best were sent to the military, the next best exported to client states and the worst kept for domestic, non-military sale. Unfortunately, this model persists. After so many generations of workers used to the shibboleth of "you can't pay me less than I can work" it will take some time to purge (a poor choice of words in the Soviet context)the system and replace it with a modern, western industrial model. This doesn't take into effect the widespread theft and black market industry currently thriving. One importer of Russian goods tells me he has local inspectors in Russia selecting things for him and he still has to personally inspect and service most items before sale with a 10% rate of salvageable goods-and these are hand selected! As you know I've really liked Russian and Eastern European optics-when they are right they are great and great value -Arnie ========================================================== Subject: New binocular development From: gordiray@___t Why not propose to Fuji Omiya an in-house (not Light, etc) 8x60, 9x70 with big widefield oculars and large Porro II prism? Maybe even the magnesium bodies they made for Bushnell during the early quality era when that name meant something. One can imagine the 25x150 prism drums and eyepieces mated, as is ,to a reverse engineered objective of about 70mm. While not quite as wide an apparent field as the km blc 8x60 variants, the image quality would be better near the edge, and they would be multicoated. Let us try to patronize this company before they decide to get out or go all-Chinese glued in or Steiner-ize glue-in. Perhaps they might even stop using the cheap ,brittle auto body filler as prism fixation cement in the subcontracted FMT AND MT. Incidentally, it was my suggestion which sparked the high eyerelief F series, as competition for the CZ 7x50B, BGA which used to be the rage among the marlin and swordfish crowd. --Gordon Rayner ======================================================== A very nice amateur astronomer's 10 inch binocular telescope from Germany, made by Uli Vedder: http://ulli.vedder.bei.t-online.de/bino_ger.html =============================================================== =============================================================== Binocular List #260: 22 June 2003 ===================================================== Subject: Hensoldt Serial Numvers From: "Gordon M. Jackson, Jr." In July 2000, I inquired via e-mail of Dr. Mergen at Hensoldt AG, " whether there exists a chronological list of Hensoldt (including 'bmj') binoculars according to type and serial number," and received the following: "Thank you very much for your inquiry. Unfortunately at Hensoldt's a chronological list of Hensoldt binoculars according to type and serial number does not exist. A good overview over the different Hensoldt binoculars and their year of market launch you will find in - Hans T. Seeger, Feldstecher, Verlag Bresser Optik, Borken, 1989 and an overview over the German Military Letter Codes and Hensoldt binoculars for the military you will find in - Hans T. Seeger, Militärische Ferngläser, Hamburg 1995, ISBN 3-00-000457-2 and in - http://www.radix.net/~bbrown/codes_full.html where you also will find some more sources for information. 'The difficulty in matching Hensoldt serial numbers with the year of manufacturing is that obviously serial number only between 1 and 999 999 were given and after the serial number 999 999 was given they seem to have sarted with 1 again. As Hensoldt is manufacturing binoculars since 1897 we unfortunately do not know how many "cycles" the serial numbers went through and as we lost all our records, drawings, tools and spare parts in the aftermath of WWII, we regret being unable to locate the exact year of manufacturing of any Hensoldt binocular manufactured before 1945. "Yours sincerely, Hensoldt AG Zeiss Gruppe Vertrieb Zeiss Ferngläser Dr. Mergen (Webmaster)" ============================================================ Subject: Soviet glass From: gordiray@___t I use the Soviet era optical book by Begunov, et al. Cost was trivial . Do not know if it is still available. It was from Mir, Moscow, and was at collegebookstores in the 80s. Have you seen it, or have feel for Russian optics books? I was very disappointed with the 15 x 110 and 20 x 110 that Mitch of Sovietski and Rivkin of Deutsche Optik were pushing. I wrote to Soviet Embassy in l970 after seeing one used in shot in Time mag during the Sino-Soviet brder problems. No response. Why all the yellow glass? They obviously copied the interocularspacing-prism lateral motion Cardano mechanism from the Zeiss 12 x 60 and 25 x 100. I wonder if they took any 12 x 70 or 15 x 90, if any were made, and if any were not first taken by u.s. or to Heidenheim? The 20 x 110 is too complicated, has yellow glass, weird distortion patterns, too many elements, etc, but is mechanically sounder than the 15 x 110 from Siberia. Every specimen, of both models, which I have seen has been out of collimation, though the comparatorless, collimatorless hack at Sovietski, moonlighting from Sweiss's , said one was ok. But definitely was not. What is the story on the Kunming , etc copies of the East German copie/adaptations of the prewar Asembi? All these seem to be out of collimation, plus improper spacers, etc? Maybe Osborn will choose to shed some light on this topic. He was pushing those for a while. Or the French modifications of the WW II Busch 10 x 80? He had some of those also. --Gordon Rayner =================================================================== Subject: Maker identification From: "Grimsey" Recently I picked up a small 8x25 porro binocular. It has a marking on the top left plate "Ruka Rathenow". Would that be the model i.e Ruka or the maker? Personally I have not heard of this before. They are coated of quite good quality, centre focus and have 2 prism adjusting screws on each housing. The quality of the leather case suggests they are far from cheap glasses. Any information from the group would be welcome. regards Phil Grimsey ------ Runge & Kaulfuss, Rathenow. 'RUKA' Manufacturer of optical equipment, 1930s - WWII. 6 x 30, 7 x 50. WWII code: dym , with a mark: /__\ like a prism. Any further information on this obscure maker would be welcome. --Peter ================================================================== Subject: Photo Adapter for Binos by Jeff Charles From: "Lucas, Gene" Here is a link to Jeff Charles' interesting pages on astrophotography and tele- accessories. You will find a photo and description of a gadget to do photography with binoculars here -- it slips on over the eyepiece. http://www.eclipsechaser.com/eclink/image/astrogd.htm "A Pocket Size Telescope Converter for Binoculars" http://www.eclipsechaser.com/eclink/image/astrogd.htm#bino [Quoted from the web page]: "This patented telescope converter attachment for a binocular accepts 24.5 mm diameter eyepieces. With the shown 9 mm eyepiece, it increases the 10x magnification of the binoculars to 40x. The other side of the binocular can be used as the finder scope. The front section of the adapter is interchangeable to accommodate different binoculars. The patent (D312,087, issued in 1990) is available for license. (c) Copyright 1988, 1998 Jeffrey R. Charles. All Rights Reserved." --Gene Lucas ================================================================= ================================================================== Binocular List #261: 7 July 2003 ==================================================================== Subject: Hensoldt serial numbers From: hans.t.seeger@___ne.de (Hans Seeger) A short comment to Hensoldt serial numbers. A list similar to that one asked for by Philip Anglin exists in my PC, but only a short one. I have listed nearly 400 Hensoldt serial numbers. A very small sum compared to the more than 7000 Zeiss serial numbers in my files. My Hensoldt list was given to Karsten Porezag the author of a Hensoldt history and to Dr. Besenmatter, formerly constructor of Zeiss Hensoldt binoculars and scientific advisor of this book. Both are now collecting material for the 2nd volume of the Hensoldt history from about 1905 to 1945. Recently the Zeiss-Hensoldt factory invited again a group of binocular experts for the 2nd meeting in Wetzlar and we delivered our old Hensoldt binoculars, brochures and other material for research purposes there. As previously, the material will be returned to the owners afterwards. My contributions were 27 binoculars and the list in question. The experts promised to be of assistance for this book in the future. Now the author has nearly 100 binoculars and comprehensive material for inscpection. Maybe that a list of serial numbers will be included in the 2nd volume of Porezag's Hensoldt history. Until then my list will be not published elswhere. If you or other readers of this letter provide me with your Hensoldt data I will incude these in my list and forward the numbers to Karsten and ask him to include the numbers in his book and give credit to you. Another point: The numbering system used in the Hensoldt factory seems to be very complicated and I have only a vague feeling about their proceeding. Therefore I didn’t include any suggestions or lists into my book. From my data I can see that there was a more or less “constant” number sequence from about number 300.000 to 900.000. The “lowest” bmj is 422706, the highest 590154. This number circle was continued after WW II, the lowest post war Hensoldt number in my list is 691058. An “intermediate” bino is depicted in my book on page 109, number 600463. For details see Abb. 63, left photograph. By the way: I can recommend the 1st edition of the Hensoldt History. You will find the very first Hensoldt binoculars and a lot of other interesting details. The book is in German. I think that you can get copies from Deutsche Optik. Hans Seeger ----------- Porezag, Karsten. Hensoldt: Geschichte eines optischen Werkes in Wetzlar. Band 1: Familien- und Gruendungsgeschichte bis 1903. Wetzlar: Karsten Porezag, 2001. 448 pp. D.O. is selling this for about $50., and it is a very fine book; volume 1 of a future three volume set. There is much on Hensoldt's first binoculars. --Peter =============================== Subject: 'Old Naval Binoculars' question. From: hans.t.seeger@___ne.de (Hans Seeger) Question “Old Naval Binoculars” by Harry Cavanagh. The glass in question is a 10 x 80, 20°. Some versions and details on the construction can be seen in my book on pages 354 to 358 and on page 251 (Kevin Kuhne’s chapter in English). Stephen Rohan has depicted this glass on page 105 and the following pages (Eyes of the Wehrmacht). If this glass was made by Zeiss you will find the serial number on the lower side of the cast housing. Please inform me about this number. Hans Seeger ============================================================= Subject: Hensoldt From: I can enlighten a little meagre bit on Hensoldt binoculars. On june 13th. 1905 A letter says that according to the danish representative of Hensoldt in Copenhagen, one Lt.Col. Pade, Hensoldt will in the near future be delivering a new design of binoculars, without mirrored prisms. Presently, The latest deliveries from the company has been manufactured of steel! Instead of Aluminium. The reason for this is, that the oxidation of the aluminium parts in the binos deteriorate optical performance! The surfaces of the prisms gets coated with oxidations products from the aluminium. Does anyone know what this means? Apparently it is NOT the silver mirror surface, that deteriorate. And the new design mentioned, must be the first true Dialyts. The flawed design mentioned above, is the old type with flat oval prism housings. Has anyone seen one of those, made of steel? Or maybe the steel design is the type with only objective and ocular openings in the prism house casting?. ( but still retaining the silver mirror prism system) Later, in early 1906, the same representative confirms that deliveries of the new straight through design has been made. Unfortunately there is no reference til serial numbers. If this should be said in short, then: Alu oval prism house binos up to around 1904-1905 One piece prism houses of steel 1905-1906 Dialyts 1906. One can speculate, that the idea of the one piece casting prism houses are caused by moisture in the old screw assembled oval design. It may be a neccessity in order to make the silver mirror prisms work well. Then the revised design of the roof prism makes the old, and probably fairly expensive steel castings dispendable. Now the tubes of the dialyt can be turned on a Lathe? I think those thin wall steel castings must have had a fairly high fault rate in the production....they are extremely thin. Michael Simonsen mikedenmark@___l.com --------------------------------------- (I sent a copy of Michael's email to Hans Seeger. --Peter) From: hans.t.seeger@___ne.de (Hans Seeger) It is true that Dialytes were introduced in 1905, see my book on Feldstecher pages 108 - 109. The remark on steel housings of late Pentaprism glasses refers to those with the "rounded shoulders", i. e. to models which have a one part prism housing like Abb. 115 and 116 in the book on Feldstecher and Abb. 67 (page 115) in my book on Military Binoculars. Earlier models of these had an aluminium body. I have a monocular of this shape with magnetic properties indicating a steel housing; I cannot tell if cast or steel sheet. The weight of this 12 x 26 (without serial number) is 240 g and would (to my feeling) not be much lighter with alu housing. The left hand glass in Abb. 67 has steel housings. The explanation of some sort of layer on prisms caused by a volatile aluminium compound is very unlikely. Aluminium oxide is not volatile. Only in case of strong corrosion of aluminium this will be transformed into a white powder. Normally, a very thin and transparent aluminium oxide layer prevents oxidation of this metal. Therefore some manufacturers did not paint the interior of early binoculars in order to gain the impression of higher luminosity. --Hans ============================================================= Subject: Recent imports From: "Osborn Optical" >> What is the story on the Kunming , etc copies of the East German copie/adaptations of the prewar Asembi? All these seem to be out of collimation, plus improper spacers, etc? Maybe Osborn will choose to shed some light on this topic. He was pushing those for a while.<< Ah. So the new term for selling is "pushing". I suppose the term may be appropriate for optical addicts. At any rate, after about 200 units, it was noticed that the quality was indeed slipping. The last 50 or so, were definitely suffering from indifferent assembly. My last trip to the factory revealed that with the turning over of much of the factory from military control to privatization , the quality control was leaving as well. From our standpoint, they were not worth the work to continue importing. In my contact with other folks that are still handling them, they are having to put considerable work into them to be saleable. >> Or the French modifications of the WW II Busch 10 x 80? He had some of those also.<< I only had one French variation that I had taken in trade quite a while back (since sold), but, I may have another coming. They are fixed focus and have no filters. There is a desiccant cartridge inserted in the hole that the filter drive shafting used to occupy. The eyepiece lenses are the standard 10x80x45 degree lenses in a one piece, fixed focus cell. The objectives utilize a different cell as well with brass spacers and retainer rings. Some have the original prism housing, and others have been found with a different casting that incorporated an machined boss on the bottom that supports a synchro. From "the top of the optical repair mountain" ;) , Earl ==================================================================== Subject: Ruka From: "William M. Beacom" The photocopied booklet I prepared has a page from the 1937 Geco Catalog#65 with 13 different models of RUKA binoculars in both regular and Leichtmetall. --Bill Beacom ----------------- This is an interesting line of Porro I, center-focus binoculars. The Artisem, Splendido, & Dumaris are about 70 degree field. The bridge between the eyepieces and the center post is not flat, but is arched, in a manner usually thought of as 'characteristically French', so perhaps this characteristic is not limited to French models. --Peter 6 x 24 Mars. Leichtmetall. 8 x 24 Hermes. Leichtmetall. 6 x 30 Spezial. (Reticle) Leichtmetall. 8 x 30 Spezial (Reticle) Leichtmetall. 10 x 30 Spezial (Reticle) Leichtmetall. 6 x 30 Decoris. 8 degree field. 8 x 32 Artisem. 8.5 degree field. 6 x 36 Claro. 7.5 degree field. 8 x 36 Splendido. 8.2 degree field. 7 x 40 Ultramar. 6.3 degree field. 10 x 40 Dumaris. 6.6 degree field. 7 x 50 Orion. 7.3 degree field. 15 x 50 Sirius. 3.6 degree field. ============================================================================== Subject: Voigtländer From: In the archives here in Copenhagen, I found a letter here, dated 15. November 1934. It is an offer of a binocular from a local representative of Voigtländer & Sohn, Braunschweig to the danish army. The binocular mentioned is a special military model, all metal, black painted overall, without any leather covering. It has moulded on numbers on the oculars, to make adjustment in the dark easier. It can be delivered in either black or grey. The special feature is, that it is completely water proof, and "can stand even extended time, submerged in water" ! Due to the large production presently, it can be sold at a very favourable price. The reason for this, is the fairly large orders for this binocular made by the NSDAP. (National Socialistische Deutscher Arbeiter Partei, ) One note here. In the nazi movement, for some reason, Braunschweig was an important city. I cannot recall the details, but I think the local party was very very active, that a Gauleiter was arrested for criminal activities, and that the riot police had their hands full trying to seperate the different groups from various parties, read: major street unrest. In view of this, it is concievably that local party groups did order binoculars on a more than modest scale. So the information in Mr. Seegers book on page 97 (2. edition) Abb 54, top left, is correct. This binocular is indeed a Voigtländer product. Date is around 1934. And as mentioned elsewhere: exist in both black and grey. Seeger has a picture of a grey item. I myself have a black one. And the main reason for the odd prism house design is, that it is watertight. Any collector out there with a spare specimen for a test??? I supply the bucket of water. Around here, it saw some testing, and a statement on its specifications were made. This was done on request from the danish representative of Voigtländer. It must have stirred some interest, as a later dated letter supplied the army with prices for 100 and 1000 pieces. As far as I can see, no purchases were made. The actual Bino of this type, I have, was found in a junk shop here in Copenhagen. Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___ele.dk ========================================================================== Subject: News from D.O. From: "Mike" For giant binocular enthusiasts, please note that we currently have one (1) 40x150 and a handful of 20x120s available for sale. All come from IDF (Israel Defense Force) military stores, and they've been cleaned, collimated, and include tripods and yokes. Most were made by Kowa, but a couple of the 20x glasses are from Nikon. Pricing is $4990 for the 40x150 and $3500 for the 20x120s. Please advise if interested. Regrettably little progress to report on the new binocular project, as we are starting the summer slowdown in Europe and continuing to battle the falling dollar and rising costs. However, I'll keep you posted. s/ Mike Rivkin Deutsche Optik ================================================================================ Subject: New models - Deleted models From: Kennyj2@___m I have not corresponded for a little while mainly because I continue to have absolutely nothing to offer on "the HISTORY of Binoculars " , and would not wish to be accused or suspected of trying to introduce unrelated topics to list members , which I have been guilty of in the past . That said , I thought it might be of some interest to someone here to know that Swarovski are bringing out a ( very expensive ! ) 8 x 32 version of their highly regarded EL series . I have been quoted an introductory price well over $1000. This quite hot on the heels of Nikon , who last year brought out a 8 x 32 version of their similarly celebrated High Grade / Venturer . Of course , purely on optical merit , the old favourites Leica roofs and the porro Nikon Superior E continue to be tough acts to beat in the 8 x 32 range . I for one am pleased that such major manufacturers are evidently so aware of the desireability of a smaller binocular to be putting so much research and development and of course marketing , into such sized units , but still lament the passing of the once commonplace 6 x 30 and 7 x 35 sizes . Regardless of all theoretical argument to the contrary , even at my age firmly in the "over 50s club " I still prefer a 5mm exit pupil even in broad daylight , and have a hunch that good quality , centre -focus , modern -looking, waterproof , phase corrected roof prism, wide -field models from the top guns in 6 x 30 and 7 x 35 could yet make a "comeback " . I concede this could be no more than wishful thinking . I hope someone influencial is reading this :-) Summertime regards to all -- Kenny . ================================================================================ ================================================================= Binocular List #262: 16 July 2003 ================================================================= Subject: 'Pushing binoculars' From: Stephen Sambrook Re. Earl Osborne's observation about 'pushing' . . . In Britain, at least, it's not a new expression. I came across it recently in some correspondence between C. Baker & Company (London dealers in microscopes &c) and Voigtlander in the early years of the 20th Century. The term then was used to indicate that a retailer would introduce the products of one company to its customers, rather than those of another maker. All rather genteel, and not in any way derogatory. C. Baker were politely telling Voigtlander that it would not be possible to 'push' the latter's products unless an extra discount were made available. The German firm had wanted Baker to 'push' as an integral part of a proposed agency agreement. In the end Voigtlander conceded the point and gave Baker's what they wanted. 'Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose.' Stephen Sambrook ----------- To which I can only add: 'There Will Always Be an England' --Peter ================================================================== Subject: Japanese binoculars From: Nekosan My web pages have moved to : http://www.cameraguild.jp/nekosan/ I have added some new items also. Toshiba WWIIbinoculars. http://www.cameraguild.jp/nekosan/mazda.htm Postwar opera glasses by Minolta and Kowa. http://www.cameraguild.jp/nekosan/promin.html I'm preparing a Mikron page. Maybe within this year. Best Hayao "nekosan" Tanabe ============================================================================ Subject: Re: 6x24 From: Fan Tao I picked up a Russian wide angle 6x24 binocular on eBay, which I believe is the model mentioned in R.C. Gregory's book. It is very stubby, similar in shape to a Sard 6x42 though much smaller of course. This model does not appear to be military as it is center focus. From its serial number (6909242) one can surmise that it was made in 1969. Although the maker is not spelled out, it has the prism logo of KOMZ (Kazan Optical Mechanical Plant). This 6x24 model does not currently appear on KOMZ's web site. According to Gregory, the Russian 6x24 has a field of 200m at 1000m (although elsewhere in his book he also estimates it at 210m). I confirmed this with an estimate of a bit more than 11 degrees for the true field, or around 68 degrees for the apparent field. This is a bit less than another 6x24 wide field binocular of that era, the Leitz Amplivid. I found the Russian 6x24 to have a sharper image though. Like the Amplivid, it has low rectilinear distortion, i.e., straight lines remain straight across the field. I disassembled the Russian eyepiece and found it to have a 3-2-1 configuration, not commonly found in binoculars. One or more of the elements is slightly yellow, causing the image to be the same. The eye relief is reasonable at around 15mm measured but the usable amount is reduced by the fixed eyecups. I found the Russian 6x24 to be an interesting little binocular. Pictures and more information can be found on my web site: http://binofan.home.att.net/rus6x24.htm Fan Tao -------------- This is a very interesting binocular. If any list members can find a retail source for them, I believe there would be some orders from list members. --Peter ========================================================================= Subject: German optical manufacturer's guidebook From: Peter Abrahams List member Lothar Esch loaned me a copy of: Handbuch der Feinmechanik und Optik; verbunden mit firmenkundlicher und warenkundlicher Darstellung fuer die Industriezweige: Feinmechanik, Optik, Uhrenindustrie, Bueromaschinenindustrie, Medizinmechanik mit Orthopaedie. Berlin: Verlag fuer Fachliteratur Rich. Markewitz, 1950. Hans-Heinrich v. Stutterheim, editor. 436pp. This book lists German manufacturers of instruments. Particularly interesting is the list 'Prismenfernglaeser', on page 351: Chr. Beck & Soehne, Kassel. Jos. Eschenbach, Nuernberg. H. Fehrenbach & Co., Rathenow (Feldstecher-Rep.) Gerh. Filtjen, Schwaebisch Gmuend. Hensoldt & Soehne, Wetzlar. Hertel & Reuss, Kassel. Fritz Hofmann, Erlangen. Koch u. Jaruschewitz, Berlin-Friedenau. This seems to be a list of prism binocular manufacturers. I believe Fehrenbach, Filtjen, Hofmann, and Koch -- are unknown in the U.S. And others are practically unknown. ========================================================================== ======================================================================== Binocular List #263: 18 July 2003 =================================================== Subject: Nordiska; Nedinsco From: I have found two small pieces of information that may be of interest to some: 1: The swedish Zeiss representation: Nordiska Instrument Bolaget AB, in short: Norinab, stopped their operation on july 1st, 1925, turning over all orders, and responsibilities to Zeiss Nedinsco in the Netherlands. 2: Zeiss Nedinsco changed their engravings of binoculars about august 1st, 1927. From this date, the engravings had the normal Carl Zeiss Jena logo in the middle, Nedinsco to the left, Systeem on top and Gravenhage to the right. The factory drawing of this change was dated June 22, 1927. --Michael Simonsen ============================================ Subject: C. Beck, Kassel; and aluminum From: Well, the recent list, No. 262 mentioned C. Beck Kassel. And I happens to be looking for some information on one of their binoculars. Does anyone have a C. Beck Kassel 7x50 Binocular, named Luchs? I am interested in receiving pictures of the main markings, as well as an overall picture of this binocular. Please note, I like to have a real picture, I have a copy of a catalog covering it. Seems Beck was trying their skills at Binoculars in the late thirties...With less than great success. Mostly center focused civilian models. Same company is well known, when we talk microscopes. Trade mark: Beck Kassel above a triangle, with two overlapping circles at the sides, and with the letters: CBS inside the figures. I have presently one microscope with this marking, and will try to provide a picture. About aluminium bodies. From what I have read, I understand that to make a binocular work, with a body of aluminium, you need to cover all inner surfaces with something that reduces corrosion: Paint, eloxidation or the like. One option mentioned is boiling the part in plain water, leaving it for drip drying. I live in Denmark, our water has an extremely high level of calsium. And the book is danish, so this may be a local practice found by experience. It also cloggs faucets, washing mashines, coffee machines and all that. Maybe the process fills the alu oxide surface with calsium. In fact, if the inner surfaces of an alu Binocular is left uncoated, the risk of corrosion will be big, as the enclosed space will assemble moisture. Any contamination of the basic alu material will increase this behaviour. So if the alu bodies has traces of say, iron on the surface, this will increase the problem. This is probably the reason for the development of the electron alu alloy material. To make a less corrosive basic material. Another option is to use air drying in some way. Zeiss has made some military WW2 7x50 binoculars with silica gel inserts. (silica gel is that stuff in the small white bags you see, when you buy electronic gear, like computers.) So maybe the air drying not only was done to deal with visible moisture, but also to expand the working life of a binocular? Michael Simonsen mikedenmark@___ele.dk ================================================ Subject: Russian 6x24 etc From: "G.H.Samuel" I bought one of these Russian 6x24 binoculars some years ago (very cheaply) and agree with Fan Tao's assessment. It is an excellent little binocular. In the UK it was distributed during the 1970's under the Helios brand name, but it had disappeared from the brochures by the end of the decade and I presume that it did not sell well. No doubt the best seller was the 8x30 which is still in production, together with a monocular version. I assume that the model went out of production. I have a range of versions of the 8x30, not all from the same factory if the logo is anything to go by. The 8x30 is a civilian version of a military model and all have excellent optical quality, although in some the image is on the green side. Most of the civilian versions are centre-focus, but an EF model - basically identical to the military ones but without the graticule - was available in the 1960s. I have to say that none of the old Helios brochures mention the EF 8x30, but it is shown in a 1960's Charles Frank catalogue. The monocular versions of the 8x30 are also of reasonable optical quality. I have models from 1971, 1981 (military with graticule), 1992 and 1997 and think that the optical quality is very consistent over the years. Given the price of these Russian optics, we are talking excellent value even if they do not match Zeiss. Geoffrey Samuel ================================================ Subject: Russian 6x24 From: "Grimsey" I agree this is a very interesting little binocular. I used to own one about 15 years ago and should not have sold it as it has taken almost that long to find another. They were certainly imported into the UK as I purchased mine new.They clearly do not come up very often and are very good value when they do. My own view is that the compact dimensions and wide field outweigh the yellowish image. regards Phil Grimsey ================================================= Subject: Russian 6x24 From: "tpress" Fan Tao's description of the KOMZ 6 x 24 wide field binocular in the current List was extremely interesting and raises for me the question why a civilian glass such as this one would purposefully employ yellow images. While my survey is hardly exhaustive, virtually all of the Russian binoculars I have examined and many of the Soviet era East Bloc glasses all share the yellow image phenomenon. Do any of the List readers know the reason? Regards, Tom ---------------- There are various reasons given, of various degrees of believeability: to reduce chromatic aberration, and to 'cut through haze or fog'. An old binocular can have discolored cement. Personally I find the effect very unpleasant. --Peter ============================================== Subject: Directory From: "rhanna@___a" I came across a copy of the "Directory & Handbook of the Scientific Instrument Manufacturers Association (of Great Britain Ltd.)" ("SIMA") for 1952 which to quote the inside cover contains, "biographical information on the Association and the industry (and ) a useful index, giving the sources of 2,500 instruments manufactured by a hundred firms... The Association was established in 1916 as The British Optical Instrument Manufacturers Association. This volume is old enough to contain much information on firms of pre-war fame, as well as some of the 'newer' ones. For those interested in British optics it might be a title worth looking for. Regards, Robert. ================================================= Subject: 'Pushing binoculars' From: "Osborn Optical" > Re. Earl Osborne's observation about 'pushing' . . . In Britain, at least, it's not a new expression.... My "pushing" response was tongue-in-cheek. Having lived in the U.K. for a while, I was aware of usage there, and I was just having fun with Gordon, whom I have know for several years. Remember folks, optics is "light" work :) Earl =================================================== Subject: Diopter settings From: Kennyj2@___m DIOPTER SETTINGS After carrying out a mini survey amongst friends and fellow binocular enthusiasts I have found that I am far from unique in having discovered various discrepencies with binocular diopter settings of all kinds and qualities . I am not a collector but do own and use eight different binoculars of varying quality and have noticed that the diopter adjustments I need to make vary considerably from model to model from minus 0.5 right out to minus 5 . I am overdue an eye test but almost 3 years ago I had 20/20 vision in both eyes. I also know of others with 20/20 vision in both eyes who have to make similar adjustments with an even wider variety of centre -focus binoculars and in one case with Fujinon individual eyepieces . I would have thought this equated to a midpoint 0 position being perfect focus . Although far from being an optics repair person I have taken enough binos apart to realise that the degree of incrementation required for such adjustments is very fine and totally dependent on the location and security of the travelling ocular unit , and can understand how easily inexpensive "disposable" varities given away free with 50 gallons of fuel or whatever could easily be thrown together with such negligence to detail but am surprised that even products as expensive as Zeiss , Swarovski and Nikon all seem to share this anomoly . I wondered if others within the group had similar experiences and if perhaps one or two could explain what is happening here ? ----------- I can't explain it but I can acknowledge it; many or most of the binoculars I acquire used have 'randomized' individual focus, where the diopter settings are not meaningful - the eyepiece rings have been rotated from a placement that accurately reflects focus. I am not sure how widespread the problem is in new binoculars, but I'm sure it can be found. --Peter ============================================================== Subject: Moeller, Wedel From: Stephen Sambrook I wonder if anyone has any knowledge of Moeller's early activities ? When digging in the Barr & Stroud archives a few months ago, I came across a reference to Moeller in connection with photographic means of producing scales for graticules. In 1915, Martin Strang, one of B&S's staff, wrote of a visit he had made to Moeller's works in Wedel before the Great War began (1914). Moeller, presumably Herr Moeller, had been very reticent about the means used to produce very fine scales. Strang noted that Moeller 'did a great deal of work for Zeiss, and probably did the rangefinder scales', meaning the ones for the stereoscopic rangefinders. What intrigues me just a little is the notion of Zeiss using sub-contractors. Perhaps Moeller had a patented or secret process for making very fine scales . . . any details or ideas will be most welcome. Stephen ---------------- The relationship between Moeller & Zeiss is convoluted & legalistic. Jack Kelly contributed the most detailed (English language) account: 'Moller and Zeiss Compact Binoculars'; Zeiss Historica, Spring 1999. He wrote that Moeller proposed that Zeiss be licensed to manufacture Moeller designed products, but as events transpired, Zeiss soon gained control over the Moeller company and designs. I believe that if Moeller was at one time a subcontractor for Zeiss, that would be news (at least in the English references.) --Peter ============================================== There has been some mention on the list of the 'limiting magnitude' of binoculars used for astronomy: determining the dimmest star that is visible at a certain aperture & magnification. A good reference is: Carlin, Nils. Estimating the Limiting Magnitude of Binoculars http://w1.411.telia.com/~u41105032/visual/limiting.htm ============================================== ================================================= Binocular List #264: 8 August July 2003 ============================================================= Subject: Eastern European optics From: The continued fascination with the yellow tint on Eastern European optics is perhaps because of its obscure nature. As we have discussed in earlier letters, the explanations are many. Impurities seem unlikely from Schott glass, the supplier for many of the binocs in question. Tinting for haze and comfort in long term glassing may be true. While annoying when first using, after awhile your brain cancels out the hue and they are very easy on the eyes! The addtion of salts to prevent damage in a radiological battlefield is perhaps the most exotic and not without some rationale. Pre-nuclear age Russian glasses don't have the tint! As far as their presence in "civilian Binoculars" it is important to again point out that there was really no such thing as civilian production in the USSR-it is not surprising that basic items such as lenses would not be specially produced for nonmilitary application. The little 6x24 alluded to may have been replaced by the currently available 6x30 extrawide field-12.5 degrees. This is available from Kalinka optics. I believe Helios was the same line as Kronos but distributed in the UK. The actual plant of manufacturing may have varied-KOMZ or ZOMZ. In the USSR the marketing names varied-for example the Tento name was an export organization for the procucts of many factories. Recently there have been some mergers and rationalization of product lines-so the blood lines are now hard to follow. My Kronos glasses are typical-excellent optics and basic but passable mechanics. Lastly, I like to report a recent pilgrimage I made. While in Philadelphia for a medical meeting I visited I Miller on 35N Second. This is in the historic district, right across the street from the old Christ Church of Revolutionary War fame. An unassuming one store wide but very deep old building now filled with microscopes. They are the largest supplier of microscopes for educational purposes on the East Coast. In the past they wer the prime contractor to the US Gov't for binocular repair in the WW2 era. They still have a vast storehouse of parts and pristine leather cases. In the back they have cabinets of old binocs in various degrees of repair-German, US, Japanese, French. I found a number of interest. Perhaps the best was the NGF heavy duty 6x30 seen in Steve Rohans book and starred as very rare. A potential source of spare parts for the more creative of our group. I Miller no longer does any repairs of binocs. -- Arnie ============================================================= Subject: Recent design developments. From: Kennyj2@___m I have only just discovered what appears to be quite a novel eyepiece arrangement that has been incorporated into the 2002 Bushnell 20 -60 x 60 spotting scope. It is a multi -position pivoting eyepiece which offers an infinite number of viewing angles ranging from straight through to 90 degrees . I have not seen the item in the flesh but it certainly sounds like a most interesting development that could be of great benefit for many utilisations and one that I'm frankly quite surprised hasn't caught on with other manufacturers. Perhaps there are inherent problems ? I wondered if this system had ever been tried before ? As a side issue , another good idea that I'm surprised hasn't been copied by other leading manufacturer's is the twin -power eyepiece system of the Leica Duovid , now also available as a somewhat bulky 10 and 15x 50 version. Other unorthodox developments are to be found on the Leupold Tactical 12 -40 x 60 spotting scope . Unlike most modern scopes it uses erecting lenses instead of prisms to both erect and laterally correct the image , and uses mirrors to fold the light path , giving the scope a very compact " double decker " appearance . As for relevence to this group -"after all today's developments are tomorrow's history" is about the best I can offer . Kenny J . ------------------ I'm not sure I've ever seen a spotting scope with a swiveling eyepiece. This site has a large image: http://sports.hi-one.com/Hunting_and_Archery/Spotting_Scopes/ --Peter ========================================================= Subject: Norinab From: Robert Forslund Forslund@___ne.de I have to make a comment on Mike Simonsens contribution. There have been some binoculars found labeled "Norinab". Hans Seeger once told me that these were put together from Zeiss parts remaining in Sweden after the first World War. Later this produktion was discontinued and the remaining parts were send to Nedinsco. I think Hans found this information in "CZJ einst und jetzt". Perhaps the date mentioned from Mike refers to this event. However Norinab stayed as agent for Zeiss products in Sweden. I have found a lot of documents in Swedish arcives from the time of the second World War with the Norinab logo on them. The firm also represented a handfull of other German firms in optics and fine mechanics. I can present a detailed list later, I don't have this material with me here in Sweden. Regards Robert Forslund ------ ......continued: From: Forslund@___ne.de A comment on Mike Simonsens contribution to list 263: Norinab stopped producing binoculars with their name in the mid 20es, (see Dr. Seeger, Mil. Ferngl. und Fernrohre, second edition p.455). I guess your date 1/7 1925 is correct, however Norinab stayed in business as Swedish agent for Carl Zeiss. In the Swedish archives from the time of the Second W.W. i have found many letters of correspondence between Norinab and the Swedish military authorities. In their header Norinab declares that they are agents for the following firms: Carl Zeiss-Militäroptik-Jena Zeiss-Aerotopograph, Jena Nedinsco, Venlo Anschütz & C:o, Kiel C. Plath, Hamburg Gebrüder Andersen, Kiel Mechanische Werkstätten Neubrandenburg G.m.b.H., Berlin-Britz Reinmetall-Borsig A.-G, Berlin Waffenfabrik Solothurn A.-G., Solothurn Drägerwerk, Lübeck --Robert Forslund =========================================================== Subject: Cross eyed? From: Arthur Tenenholtz tenenholtzadiglobalcom Twice this week, I examined two porro prism binoculars which were cross-eyed: the left tube had a field of view more to the right than than did the right tube; the right tube field's was more to the left than was the left tube's field.. One failed a quick check for collimation, while the other seemed to be in collimation. I guess that both were collimated by poor workers or by amateurs. I would imagine that a proper bench test would be include checking the fields of vision as well as collimation. Although I find it unsatisfactory is there any signifigant effect on the user of such a glass? Can it be harmful to the user's eyesight? Does it effect stereoscopic vision? -------------- I believe this will reverse the perception of depth; near objects will appear to be distant, & vice versa. If they are truly collimated, but reversed as described, I don't think there will be eyestrain, but it seems unlikely they would be well collimated. --Peter ================================================================ Subject: Japan From: Peter Abrahams I just returned from a trip to Japan. I learned much about early Japanese telescopes, and also about Japanese binoculars. Some of the highlights related to binoculars: --Meeting list members: -Tatsushi Nishioka, who brought a very well made binocular viewer for telescopes that he designed & fabricated, using large prisms for two inch eyepieces. Mr. Nishioka also brought an example of the first Japanese prism binocular, the Fujii Brothers 'Victor' 8 x 20, manufactured circa 1911. -Hayao Tanabe, whose web site is familiar to many of us: http://www.cameraguild.co.jp/nekosan/ Mr. Tanabe brought a group of small binoculars to share, including a Teleater 'clone' labeled 'Chitose', and a Nikko 'Capella' Galilean. Nishioka & Tanabe met me at the Science Museum in Tokyo, where we saw the famous Nikko 40 x 250, now in storage but seemingly in good condition. --Visiting several stores retailing telescopes & binoculars: Kokusai Kohki in Kyoto, whose owner, Barry Gooley, was kind enough to drive me to a 'Star Party' outside Kyoto. In Tokyo, Mr. Tanabe provided me with maps to three telescope stores: 'Kyoei', 'Seihosha', and 'Takahashi Star Base Tokyo'. The Takahashi store was the best, I knew I had arrived when I saw one of their 22 x 60 models on a tripod, displayed outside, on the sidewalk. In the three stores, I inspected many binoculars, including: Nikon has two new roof prism models, a 10 x 25, and an 8 x 20 that I liked very much except it was $500, $450 retail; with excellent images - a wide & flat field. (Prices were of course in Yen.) I compared them to the Kowa BD25-8, 8 x 25, 6.3 degree, $240. retail, which is very good but not at the level of the Nikons. I also used a Nikon 15 x 70, 4 degree field, with excellent images; I don't believe this model has been sold in the U.S. It is better than the Nikon 18 x 70, 4 degree field, which is very good but has some distortion & edge problems; retail $1100. (Compared to the Nikon 10 x 70 at $640., which is excellent but narrow field of view.) Fuji has released a new 16 x 70, shorter & smaller, but with inferior images compared to their old 16 x 70: low distortion, moderate field curvature, some odd effects of illumination at the edge of the field that I can't describe, reflections off surface of the eye lens were distracting, and uncomfortable eyecups. --I gave a talk in Tokyo on the history of binocular telescopes from 1600, which had been translated into Japanese for a handout. Nishioka & Tanabe were in attendance, as was Toshiya Kamakura. I also met Takashi Nagajima, who is writing a series of articles on historic binoculars for the Japanese magazine 'Sky Traveler'; the most recent issue has the 81st article in the series. Hopefull, one day we can translate these articles. Without the assistance of my Japanese hosts, I could never have seen & learned all that I experienced, and I am grateful for their efforts. We are all aware of the achievements of Japanese optical engineers & manufacturers, but the background to this is almost totally unknown. It will take a lot of work to publish the history of modern Japanese binocular production. --Peter ================================================= ================================================= Binocular List #265: 21 August 2003 ============================================== Subject: Eastern European optics From: "Forrest" I was involved in the design of a spotting scope about 10 years ago and when evaluating prototypes we were puzzled by its yellowish hue. Almost like it had a slight yellow filter. After much analysis of absorption of various wavelengths from the Schott glasses used we concluded that would not account for this aberration. Finally using Zemax software we were able to show the effect is caused from sphero- chromatism in the exit pupil. It was eliminated by redesign which was both validated on paper with the program as well as with the first prototypes. This was a very unusual optical problem which our chief design engineer has not experienced in his 40 years of optical design. I just thought your readers might consider this as possibly a similar problem with the Russian design mentioned on the binocular list #264. Forrest Babcock ================================================= Subject: Collimation Revisited From: "William Cook" Arthur Wrote: >>>Twice this week, I examined two porro prism binoculars which were cross-eyed: the left tube had a field of view more to the right than than did the right tube; the right tube field's was more to the left than was the left tube's field.. One failed a quick check for collimation, while the other seemed to be in collimation.<<< Any time the field in a left telescope is to the right of a corresponding right telescope, the FOV of the right telescope will automatically be to the left of the telescope—and vice versa. One thing rarely discussed on the list involves the lowly axle. This should not be. Binoculars not collimated to the AXLE are not collimated. Quite often an amateur will screw up a collimated TELESCOPE to collimate BINOCULAR as a whole. This would make the project MUCH harder for a professional—though a real professional wouldn’t make the mistake—and is maddening for the amateur. Step 1: Collimate the swinging barrel to the AXLE using the “tail of the arc” method. Step 2: Collimate stationary barrel to the Swinging Barrel. By doing so, it too will be collimated to the AXLE. By this, the binocular is COLLIMATED. And being collimated, it is collimated at all IPDs. Many years ago, I coined the term “Conditional Alignment” to cover the alignment situation that exits when the binocular is within standards at only one IPD—this distance being determined by 1) a specified IPD, 2) the observers IPD or 3) the blind luck of an untrained worker. Whenever possible, it is important to determine WHICH telescope needs the work before charging in. I am not a fan of being bitten by poisonous snakes. However, given the choice, I would MUCH rather be bitten by one than by two! >>>I guess that both were collimated by poor workers or by amateurs.<<< Amateurs take heart, if the big companies keep closing the parts departments and farming out their work to unskilled workers who know more about slinging burgers than aligning prisms, you will soon be America’s “experts.” This, of course, will be much like wetting your pants while wearing a bark blue suit . . . it will give you a warm feeling, but nobody will notice. Just a thought. William J. Cook, Chief Opticalman, USNR-Ret. Mgr, Precision Instruments & Optics, Captain’s Nautical Supplies, Seattle Editor, The Best of Amateur Telescope Making Journal PS If there is a scientific name for that which I call “Conditional Alignment,” I would like to be advised. I have no need to be original at the expense of plagiarism. ====================================================== Subject: Yellow tinted glass. From: My name is Mark Hammons and I am a fairly new member. Actually only own a few pair of Zeiss Binoculars and 2 pair of Leitz Binoculars, neither of which are very old -- but I enjoy the history of optics. Also am an amateur astronomer with a rare Zeiss scope (AS 63/840) and some rare Zeiss eyepieces ( Orthos, Huygens, Monocentrics). The articles about finding yellow tint in some older Binoculars caught my eye. I wonder if the reason could possibly be the use of radioactive rare-earth elements in the glass mix. I have an early Leica screw-mount Summicron lens ( 50mm, F2.0 ) that has a yellowish tint to it. Some years back there was an article in the "Viewfinder", a publication of the Leica Historical Society of America talking about how some of the Summicron lenses of that period (mid to late 1950s) had a yellow tint to them. The article concluded that it was because Thorium Oxide was used in one or more of the glass elements. I checked my lens out with a Geiger counter and sure enough it is radioactive. Supposedly radioactive bombardment will yellow some glasses. These lenses started out clear but over time became yellowed. The article was written by a fellow who had access to several different examples of these lenses and said they were yellowed to varying degress -- probably due to the total amount o Thorium oxide in the glass mix. Could this be an explanation to these yellow tinted binoculars -- a geiger counter will tell! ---Mark ------- I believe there are some scarce examples of military optics that contain radioactive glass, that has yellowed over time. As far as I know, there is little reason to be concerned about such in military binoculars; though if you find a unique looking model with a very odd tint to the glass, you could at least remember the possibility. -- Peter ========================================================= Subject: Report on a trip to Zeiss in 1921 From: This is a translation of a report, made by a danish officer, on a trip he made to Zeiss in Jena in 1921. For US residents, I may add one note. European politics are weird, and has always been weird. To read below, of socialists making deals with a Company management, against communists may sound far out. It is not, it does not really make anyone raise a brow. ----- Report on a journey to Carl Zeiss in Jena, may-june 1921. Participants: Captain A. Falking of the danish army Quartermaster unit. Foreman Lembcke of the army quartermaster factories. We arrived at Jena saturday afternoon, april 30th. 1921 and visited the factory on monday, may 2. where we had a couple of hours conference with the management of the company. The general manager of the company stated, that the company had been reluctant to accept the 12 range finders Model 1915 for repair. Furthermore, we had to accept, that we would only visit the factory half an hour after normal working time. the company would be at our service from 15.30 to 18.30 afternoon. The general working conditions were, even though they had improved somewhat, unstable. At the factory, there was a minority of 2-300 communists, who, among other things, after easter, had tried to prevent the majority socialists and the independent socialists from working. The later two parties had contacted the management, and with the acknowledgement, but without the support of the management, made such arrangements, that those willing to work could enter the factory, before the communists could prevent it. The factory had, during the war, had 15000 workers, but now they employed about 5000. which corresponded with peace time operations, only the general mood was low everywhere. The management was depressed and found the conditions intolerable as they dared not give orders to the workers. The departments making war material has been either closed down, or reduced to mere shadows of their former size. This was because the work for the german army and navy was restricted by the Entente ( The allies of WWI) The workers are especially unwilling to work on military orders, and the mere presence of foreigners in the factory with business of a military nature, could cause trouble with the workers again. Trouble that the factory neither would, nor dared risk. Furthermore, the communists would, if they knew about our (the danes) presence, most likely, let the french press know about it. suggesting that Zeiss, in contradiction to the peace treaty, still made military equipment. The Zeiss company wanted to maintain the outmost correctness toward the peace treaty, and toward the entente. A recent report in the french press, reporting that Zeiss made periscopic rangefinders, (see below) resulted in a renewed visit by the Interallied Control Commission (IACC) responsible for the disarmament of Germany, just a few days before our visit. During this inspection, the company had had, under the supervision of the IACC, to destroy the following either completed or partly finished items: 2000 Periscopic rangefinders (Basis 0.5 meter), 4000 rangefinders (Basis 0.7 meter), 2000 Periscope Binoculars and 800 Range Finders ( Basis 1.25 meter) The destroyed materiel is presently filling one of the factorys major storage buildings. These circumstances seems to have depressed the Management and the employees of the company severely, so the conditions for acquiring information was not very good. We did succeed in solving the most important problem: the repair of the rangefinders, get information on stereotelemeters, and the manufacturing details on how to make graticule plates, and how the work generally was organised in the optical shops. Finally, I have acquired information on angle meters with built in compasses, which is presently of importance to our commission on Field howitzers, and of light rangefinders that may be of interest to our test companies of the infantry. Our time was limited, so we could not get deeper into all the details. I asked the Company, if we could visit them again on ascension day and on sunday may 8th. The Management said no. We were allready sticking out, because we came on a late afternoon, and to appear on sundays or holidays, would only increase the interest our presence might stir. Concerning the working hours, I can report, it was 45 hours a week, daily from 0700 to 1445. We had opportunity to visit the Schott & Genossen glass work, while we were in Jena. The individual items on the agenda. Repair of rangefinders: Zeiss stated that the danish military factories would not be able to make optical repairs on rangefinders. Only mechanical ones. The danish factory should never disassemble a rangefinder, because adjusting one fault would only introduce another. The mounting must be done in a special sequence, starting with the Ocular, proceding to both sides, and adjustment after each component was installed. The company had had experiences with the german navy, who in certain cases had repaired their rangefinders independantly. These repaired rangefinders had invariably had to be rebuilt, when they finally were returned to the Zeiss factory. The new instrument installed in Copenhagen were only meant for verification, not adjustments after repairs. It did make verification easier and independent of the weather. I replied that the main reason for our visit was to find out how to assemble loose prisms and that the letters from the company had given us reason to believe this could be done with the instrument in question. The following day, the Zeiss representatives showed a less negative attitude, and after we had described which tests our factory had made, to the head of the Zeiss construction office, he admitted, we were on the rigth track, even though we still didn´t succeed. The leader of the construction office expressed surprise, that our optical repair shop were so deeply involved in optical repairs, and he flat out stated that he could understand that we wanted to become independant of the repairs from his Company. After this, we were allowed to inspect the apparatus used at Zeiss when the prisms of the range finders were installed, and how they generally assembled a rangefinder instrument. (Here follows a detailed description on how to adjust and assemble a rangefinder.) Finally I wanted to see a disassembled Inverttelemeter, 1.25 and 3 meters models. Unfortunately the german navy only uses stereotelemeters, and all inverttelemeters at the factory had been destroyed. I did get to see the following instruments: Stereotelemeters for the navy, 3 meter and 1.5 meter basis. Stereotelemeters for the army 2 and 4 meter basis. These instruments were assembled, but I saw drawings of a 1.5 stereotelemeter. 1.5 meter measures distances 1000-25000 meters 3 meter rangefinder measures 1500-30000 meters Stereotelemeters has lamps for night uses, a sighting telescope and crude sights inlaid with "radiometal" which made them glowing in the dark. 1.5 meter has a height angle measurement, submerged in oil, for damping purpose. The army 4 meter stereotelemeter has folding arms, one above, the other below the central part of the instrument. After unfolding the stereotelemeter must, of course, be adjusted. Transport safety is the same for inverttelemeters and stereotelemeters. The 4 meter must endure ½ an hour on a vibration table, which we saw in operation. It seems to be a rather hard test. ( My comment: I have used similar equipment, it can destroy just about anything.) ( excluded here: More technical details on stereotelemeters.) The principle of stereotelemeters was known before the war (WWI), but on demand from the german navy, it was kept a secret. Even the german army did only know little about this. The army did accept stereotelemeters during the war for anti aircraft targeting. The Chief of that department told us, that he did measurement work for almost three weeks, before he suddenly acquired "stereotelescopic view" Since then, he has held the stereotelemeter to be better than inverttelemeters. Another example is, that the chief of the construction office had problems with this. He finally went to an eye doctor, and it was found that one of his eyes had a 14 degree divergens. This is also the maximum acceptable deviation for stereoscopic viewing, that the company had calculated theoretically. We both had opportunity to try the stereoscopic rangefinding, and although we, the first day, was somewhat unsure of the concept, we did well on the second day and measured on distances of about 2000 meters. On larger distances our problems persisted. (my comment: They most likely never really saw "stereoscopic" pride, nothing but pride) In Germany there are special schools for rangefinders, and presently, there is a german navy officer at the factory, who is a teacher of a rangefinding school in Kiel ( Marinestation der Ostsee, or Baltic Naval Station ), and who himself is under education in stereometer range findings. During the war, the german army had a rangefinder school in La Fere, Gent, with about 2000 pupils. Finally, I can say that naval rangefinders 1.5 and 3 meters exists with periscopic oculars. Production of graticules. The factory believes the production of graticules to be very difficult and was reluctant to supply information. They use 3 different methods: 1 Etching with acid. 2 Cutting with diamond 3 Photographic layer. Presently new methods of etchings are tested. The company would not tell us anything about the first two methods. Only that they were difficult and that they only had a 50 % success ratio. The photograpic method: The needed pattern is drawn 50:1, inverted, after that, it is transferred to a glass plate, in 1:1. the glass plate is then cut to the needed size, and balsamed with another piece of glass, with the graticule pattern at the inside. It is then ready for assembly. Graticules for stereotelemeters are made this way. Invertelemeter 0.5 meter basis. Measuring distance is up to 10000 meters. The weight is very low, and the instrument rest against the users belt or on a small rig, when in use. It was used during the war by the austrian infantry. Dr. Eppenstein, who himself was on active service during the war, and who is the expert on these instruments, declared that this was the only way to make rangefindings in the future, as all findings would have to be taken while under cover. He believed the instrument to be sufficient accurate. The instrument was also interesting to the german army, but it was felt too risky to switch to a new type of instrument during the war. It did see service with german army mine thrower units. The german army had ordered 2000 units in 1918, but they were not completed prior to the armistice. All but 220, that the entente has allowed the german post war army, had been destroyed. Rifleman inverttelemeter basis 0.7meter. Very light, only 2 kilo, was useable like our rangefinder model 1915. No measuring drum, only a simple range scale from 200-3000 meter. The operator rest on his elbows, measuring by moving the ends of the instruments to and fro, until the two pictures inside stands above each other. The distance is then read directly on the scale. The German foot artillery angle meter, with compass. As Captain Leineweber, who should demonstrate the instrument has been busy with meetings, I only had a brief chance to inspect the instrument. (here follows some details on the instrument) Signed: Falking. --------- My comment: The numbers of destroyed instrument must be regarded with some caution. the sheer number is meant to make the visitors sympathetic, and undoubtedly it has been a chock for the mangement to see french soldiers destroy their wares with large hammers, or how they did it. On the other hand, inflating the numbers will also increase the money one can claim from the state. After all, the state must somehow compensate this, don´t they? We even get one glimpse: the 2000 0.5 meter finders wasn´t all destroyed. After all, 220 had survived, and they seem not even to have been completed. Why do I claim, it was french soldiers? 10 years back, I did some work into the IAKK or the IACC. And at that time, I learned that the french were particular hatefull and was well aware that anything they destroyed, was a loss to Germany. The leader of the IACC, who was responsible for the disarmament of Germany, was french. He was okay, but his subordinates were not. We have a british officers memoires of the work, and he had a severe dislike of the french, after that experience. Unfortunately, I don´t read french well.. I really liked to have a french view too. Back to Zeiss If there was ever made a report of this visit of the IACC in Jena, it must be in french. does anyone know, where it might be found? Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___ele.dk ========================================================= ========================================================== Binocular List #266: 23 August 2003 =============================================================== Subject: coloration in optics From: rab >yellowish hue..... caused from sphero-chromatism in the exit pupil I enjoyed your remarks about image coloration in a spotting scope. I had a similar embarrassing experience after I'd been a professional optical designer for 10 years, and had designed a low-distortion microscope eyepiece with a 1mm diameter exit pupil. The hue of the image, as observed with a prototype, depended on how far back the eye was placed, and rendered the design unacceptable. Live and learn! The effect you describe can be as complex as spherochromatism of the exit pupil, or as simple as primary color of the exit pupil. With the tiny exit pupil of a microscope, there's little tolerance for primary color, and that was my problem, but in some low power, wide angle eyepieces, such as the 31mm Nagler, said eyepiece will show a blue or yellow-brown image hue, mainly around the edge of the field, depending on whether the eye is too close or too far from the nominal pupil. Unfortunately, most designers, especially amateurs, pay little attention to pupil aberration, with the result that, as a rule, only Military optics are properly corrected. Most commercial binoculars have a greater or lesser degree of unpleasantness, depending on the competence and experience of the designer, or cost constraints that preclude doing a first-class job. However, the yellow cast found in so many Russian optics is usually due to absorption. You can tell whether the problem is aberration or absorption simply by holding the optic up to the light at arms length, and looking at the color of the exit pupil. Or, if you prefer, laying it, objective down, on a light box and looking at the color coming out of the eyepiece. If it's white, you have a pupil aberration problem. If it's colored, it's absorption. Disassembly of a few Russian eyepieces, by Fan Tao, Steve Stayton, and myself, shows that the Russians often used shamelessly yellow glass, as can be seen simply by looking at the edge of the lenses. Check Fan Tao's website for an image of one such disassembled eyepiece http://binofan.home.att.net/komz.htm . Regards, Dick Buchroeder (professional optical designer, with one year less experience than your chief design engineer). ================================================= Subject: What to use for cleaning crud/ polishing etched surface of a 2" coated eyepiece? From: Tom and Monica Body I recently picked up in a junkyard a 1970s (?) vintage telescope for directing naval guns, a 10x70 (?) made by Farrand Optical Corp. It is gyro-stabilized and looks like a small TV set (similar to the Vickers 10x70 on p.414, abb 280 of Seeger's book). The unit is complete and in excellent shape, except for the outer surface of its 2" coated eyepiece which either has a deposit of crud or has been etched from sitting outside in the junkyard for several years. When I wet the surface of the eyepiece with water or rubbing alcohol, the picture is quite good and you can see the beautiful blue coating, but when it dries, the surface goes opaque and it's like looking through a windshield splattered with mud. I've tried all kinds of solvents (Sunlight dishwashing liquid, dishwasher liquid, rubbing alcohol, diluted CLR, acetone, etc) with cotton swab, clean cloth, electric toothbrush, but nothing works: the surface still goes opaque when dry, making it hard to see through. The unit is solid brass, weighing an incredible 300 lbs, and is extremely well sealed (internal focusing) , so I'm somewhat reluctant to take the eyepiece off to send away for cleaning or polishing. I'd welcome any advice on whether it's a deposit of some kind or it's etched, what might work, and where I can get it. Thanks! Tom Body Sidney, BC CANADA ------ This sounds like a polishing job to me, though I hope I'm wrong. To re-polish a spherical lens without changing its profile requires making a small pitch lap, using the lens as a mold. (This refers to a lens from a magnifying optical instrument; spectacles etc. can be polished with less precision.) If the lens is aspheric, a more complex procedure is required. --Peter ===================================================================== Subject: Nikon 15 x 70 From: Kennyj2@___m I was very interested to read about the Nikon having a 15 x 70 with 4 degree FOV particularly when it was decribed as being better than the 18 x 70 Astroluxe, which oddly ( given it's name ) is not officially recommended by Nikon for astronomy use. I would like to know more about this 15 x 70 as I cannot find any info on it anywhere and when I last contacted a rep. from the official Nikon website bemoaning the absence of a Nikon 15x 60 in their Superior E line , I was told the company had no plans to produce a 15x model and that all efforts in the design and marketing departments in that power range were being concentrated on the " exciting new 14 x 40 Vibration Reduction model " , which has since appeared on the market under the name Stabi -Eyes . Incidentally , being currently in the process of giving serious consideration to buying an Image Stabilised bino , I was naturally drawn to the matter of how this new offering from Nikon might compare with the long established Fujinon 14 x 40 Techni - Stabi model. Comparisons of Technical specifications of these two models from two such competetive rivals on existing websites make VERY interesting studying, particularly for those with an eye for detail and capability of converting grammes to ounces and millimetres to inches. A real life side -by comparison is beyond the realms of possibility for myself at present , but I suspect it might make a very interesting and eye -opening project ( pun not intended ) for anyone who can actually get hold of one of each . Regards to all - Kenny . ------------ The 15 x 70 was not sold in the U.S., as far as I know. I'd read of it, and saw one in Japan. I have no specific details on it & only used it for a short time. I did write, 'It is better than the Nikon 18 x 70', but that was my impression after a short trial indoors in the daytime, and is not an indication of superiority in an objective sense. No one I know has tried the Nikon Stabilized model. --Peter ================================================================== Subject: Norinab From: Well, one translation a list. Here goes another one, on a visit to Norinab in Sweden. For those of you, who are not so deep into artillery, AB Bofors is a major supplier of cannons and related military equipment to the swedish armed forces. Even today. They are a major european private company in fields of military supplies. Some may remember, that they were involved in a major incident of fraud and bribe in India in the early nineties, all connected to a delivery of artillery to India. It is new to me, that they actually housed the Norinab factory, or rather tool, shop in the twenties. The danish authorities helped Zeiss around 1920, when the factory in Sweden was established, by providing Mr Forstman of the Zeiss office in Berlin, with a free travel permit through Denmark without any limitations. At this time, 1921, Mr Forstman, most likely, is allready in Holland supervising the installation of the Venlo Factory there. He had become general manager in Venlo in 1925. The relation to Mr Forstman was established during WWI, as he was responsible on behalf of Zeiss in Berlin, for contract negotiations between the danish military and Zeiss. When I view the corrspondance, the picture, I get, is one of close contact. Down to bringing along two pounds of butter in 1918, and personal christmas greetings even to junior staff members and secretaries of the Zeiss Berlin office. The report: On sept. 16th 1922, Captain Falking and chief of shop Lembcke are ordered to travel to Nordiska Instrument Aktiebolaget, at Bofors, in order to attend the repair of a rangefinder model 1910, one 1916 and one 1915, last one, which the gentlemen will bring along themself. The trip to Bofors took place from sept. 27th - oct.10th 1922. Nordiska Instrument Aktiebolagets fabrik i Bofors. The factory is installed in a building that belongs to A/B Bofors. The factory has presently 8 workers employed, and has about the same capacity as the optical work shop of the danish army. Main areas of work is repairs or assembly of new instruments, made from parts received from Zeiss in Germany, or from the new factory in Holland. The new factory in Holland, which, even though it not yet completed, allready employs 150 men, and mainly produce new items. The factory in Bofors is lead by Mr. Rothe, who is a former mechanic. During WWI he was leader of the Zeiss repair shop at Wilhelmshafen ( Main harbour for the Imperial german fleet) In this capacity he has acquired an extensive knowledge of repairing, assembly and disassembly of military instruments. The factory has a weekly worktime of 48 hours, and lately 5 extra hours a week, due to assembly of new instruments for the danish navy. Average earning for an hour is swedish 1.82. For extra thours this is increased by 25 %. It seems they calculate with 200% work ( I don´t know what this is) New items under assembly: -Danish navy: 2 pcs 3 meter stereotelemeter with periscopic oculars. 2 pcs 3 meter stereotelemeter with plain oculars 2 pcs 1,5 meter do. -Estonia: 4 pcs 6 meter coincidence telemeters, (for coastal fortresses) -Finland: Relief binoculars ( either periscope binoculars or stangenfernrohr?) -Sweden: Stereotelemeters, made in holland, accepted at Bofors. Periscopes for submarines. Nickel steel tubes to be supplied by Bofors. the company is presently closing contracts with several of the baltic states, which, like the scandinavian countries and the balkans are considered the main customers. the dutch factory on the other hand is expected to get deliveries to throughout the world, as it assumingly is build for large scale production. Concerning the production of sigthing scopes and other optics for cannons, there appear to have been established a co-operation between the company and Bofors. Nordiska Instrument A/S office in Stockholm is lead by a swedish engineer, with the assistance of Mr Paul from Jena, who was the Zeiss representative in Paris before WWI. When I arrived at the factory I asked for a conference with Mr Rothe, the factory leader, about the price for repair of 65 rangefinders. Mr Rothe stated he was only a mechanic, and would take no responsability for neither optical nor economical decisions. I therefore asked if he would call a representative in Stockholm. Mr. paul arrived from Stockholm on oct. 2nd. A discussion followed on the issue of repairs neccessary on our rangefinders. After a dispute, where I stated that our oldest rangefinders were only 6 years old, the company acknowledged their responsability of the repairs, and as I asked for the price to be found before I left, a letter were sent to Zeiss in Jena regarding this. The letter describes the real relationship between Zeiss and Nordiska Instrument Aktiebolaget, so I have been asked to handle the copy I enclose, with discretion.. (Here is a long description on details of faulty rangefinders, and constructive details.) Remarks: During my visit, I got the impression, that the factory possess a lot of experience. But the skill and the accuracy is not bigger and in some cases even less than what is required at the army optical shop in Copenhagen. The productivity at Bofors is decidedly less than in Copenhagen, which compared with the higher factory percentage ( 200% against 50%, sorry, I still don´t know what this means) makes the repairs at Bofors more expensive than in Copenhagen. These prices is incremented with the fairly high shipping costs and the price of appropriate crates for the instruments. As an example, we calculate the installation of an ocular prism in Copenhagen at 12 hour, at Bofors it is calculated to 26 hours of work. There is every reason to free us from repairs done at Bofors, and I feel certain, that we can do this in Copenhagen in the future. It is my impression that our Chief of shop, Lembcke has sufficient skill and knowledge to perform this in Copenhagen. (here follows another section with details of instruments used for work at Bofors) I mention one detail, that was unknown to me: Whe we talk optical faults, I like to mention pressure in optical parts. If glas element are secured too tightly on their bases, this can cause an paralactic fault. This fault cannot be adjusted. The only feasible way is to disassemble, and then reinstall the component. This has mainly to do with prisms. (Does anyone know what this is.?) The letter mentioned from Bofors to Jena has not been found. August 22, 2003. Michael Simonsen. ------------ If you mount prisms too tightly, using a clamp or screwing them to a base, you can put stress in the glass that changes polarized light. 'Paralactic fault' seems to mean misalignment, which might mean that the prisms were screwed tightly & torqued into misalignmend. Thanks for the very interesting translations, Peter ======================================================================== Subject: SF Prisms From: Kennyj2@___m Brunton literature describes some of their new binoculars as having SF prisms which are boasted to be superior to those constructed of BAK 4 and of course Bk7 glass . I recently came across a list of the various consitutents and relative qualities of optic glass and was quite surprised to learn that in a "league table" of around 20 different kinds in general use , BAK 4 was well below half way down the list , indicating to a layman such as myself that there are at least 12 types of glass that would perform better used in optic prisms. Indeed SF2 as it is listed therein appears higher up the quality chart , although incidentally I noticed that quite a few of these "high performers" contain arsenic and other "nasty" ingredients . I have 3 questions really . 1. I'm guessing that factors such as relative cost , availability , fragility and health and safety issues restrict the use of many of these compounds and thus influence designer and producer decisions .Would this be an accurate assumption / conclusion to draw or am I suffering from "burger slinging " mentality , as WJC so amusingly puts it ? 2. In the case of Brunton , which I believe to be currently producing ( or at least a name on ) some very fine binoculars , is this likely to be a step forwards and away from other leading manufacturers , or just a gimmick ? 3. Why is it that no other manufacturer seems to have tried this ? --------------- http://www.exodustrading.com/brunton-x105.html Brunton X105 Epoch 10.5x43 Binoculars $1400. SF prism material is better than any glass on any other binocular; 58-74mm interpupillary range; Hybrid aspheric Ocular lenses http://www.backcountrystore.com/store/BRU0043.html?CP=CJData Brunton X75 Epoch 7.5 x 43 Binocular $1200. The crown jewel of the Brunton Epoch is the SF roof prism—a prism previously only used in high-powered telescopes. Most binoculars use the excellent Bak-4 prism, but the SF is simply a step above.....the variable speed focus is finer and slower from 30 feet in, and lightning fast from 30 feet out.....near focus is 36 inches. These look like nice binoculars, listed on many retail pages. There is a review on the National Rifle Association site: http://www.nrahq.org/publications/tar/dopebag/db19.asp I'm not sure if the 'SF' prism is good for performance, or for marketing. I'd like to know. There are glasses that provide desirable optical qualities in a binocular prism, for example I believe a higher index of refraction allows use of a smaller prism while providing full field illumination. But a binocular has to be built of glass that is resistant to moisture & air, and takes a good polish; and fits in a budget; among other qualities; and I believe BAK 4 is basically unsurpassed. --Peter ======================================================================== ========================================================================= Binocular List #267: 02 September 2003 ============================================================= I really let the email pile up in the past 1.5 weeks. There are a lot of good questions in this list, please let us know some answers & I'll put out the next list much sooner. --Peter =============================================================== Subject: Translation From: This is the last of 3 reports, I have found in the danish archives, related to Zeiss and Norinab. In the future, I may return with translation on reports, made by workers, who has been sent on training at the Goerz and Zeiss Factories around 1906. Report on a trip to Bofors, regarding repair of rangefinders. By Captain A. Falking. 8-11 january 1923. 3 meter basis. 5 inverttelemeters, basis 3 m, was dispatched from Bofors on dec. 23. 1922, and has arrived in Copenhagen jan. 11th 1923. The repairs of this type of rangefinder has been finished. 1.25 meter basis. 5 rangefinders are almost repaired, and will most likely be dispatched from Bofors on jan. 15th. Subsequent repairs has been halted on my order, for the benefit of repairs of rangefinders model 1915. ( 0.7 m basis) 0.7 meter basis. 10 pcs 0.7 meter rangefinders model 1915 that was sent express frm Copenhagen dec. 11th, 1922, was received at Bofors dec. 28th. The reason for this very long shipment period was not, according to a telephone call I had with them, due to any fault at the danish state railroads. When I arrived at Bofors, the factory leader was not aware, that he had received the shipment. Against the expressed wish of the danish army quartermaster, he none the less had continued work on the rangefinders with 1.25 meter basis, and with the usual slow speed prevalent in this factory. I even had to discuss, once again, which repairs the Danish army Corps wanted done on the rangefinders. The repairs was neither planned, nor started, before my arrival. The 10 0.7meter rangefinders were then inspected, and it was found that 7, maybe 8 needed new ocular prisms from Zeiss in Germany. As it seemed likely that the repair of all 65 0.7 meter rangefinders will be depending on the main factory in Germany, I pressed for a telegraphic order to Germany for all available ocular prisms and, in case they were not available, for the manufacture of these. I expressed my deepest dissatisfaction, on behalf of the Corps, to the factory manager, on the way the repair work had been handled so far. I also asked him to telegraph Zeiss, Jena, to tell them, that we expected all 65 rangefinders repaired no later than medio March 1923. In case this was not fullfilled, Zeiss could no longer expect to be considered for future deliveries, Deliveries expected, due to the new Law of the danish defense. The factory in Bofors cannot give final delivery dates, before the end of the month, and not before they have negotiated the matter with Zeiss in Jena. On the other hand, all work that could be done at Bofors, will begin immediately, and I believe, that now they know, we take this very serious, they will be able to complete the repairs within the time schedule, in as far as Zeiss in Jena can provide the spare parts in time. The danish army factory ( my comment: he means the technical corps of the danish Army) in Copenhagen must therefore put as much pressure on the main Zeiss factory, as they can. Even though I was unable to get final delivery dates, because the situation was worse than anticipated, the conference in Bofors probably had a severe impact. At least the work has now been planned and spare parts ordered at Jena. It must be brought against the factory leader at Bofors, that he did not immediately inspect the rangefinders, when he received them. On the other hand, his position is difficult. His capacity is too small. He has only 9 men, but due to the large unemployment in Sweden, the factory dare not ask for more german workers. And swedish skilled labour is nonexistent. The 75 0.7 meter rangefinders, we have, is divided into 3 batches. 1: 53 delivered during WWI 2: 12 delivered in 1921 3: 10 delivered in 1922 The contract for repair works is connected to the first 2 batches. As there was a possibility that 2 and 3 was alike, and made from good quality materials, I asked the factory manager at Bofors, if he meant, we might only repair those from batch 1. He was against this, as he could only vouch for the quality of batch 3. All rangefinders of batch 2 is in useable order. If the army units can make do with only 22 rangefinders, I suggest, that we ship the remaining 13 of batch 1 to Bofors for repair. 40 has allready been shipped to Bofors. In view of the reluctance of the factory, when it comes to ordering spare parts, it is of the outmost importance, that the rangefinders arrive at Bofors as soon as possible. If it ends up that all the rangefinders of batch 1 has been delivered on time, the repair of the 12 in batch 2 can be postponed untill the autuum. This means that 75 working rangefinders will be available for the summer exercises. This suggestion is accepted by the army corps. Zeiss Jena has been contacted regarding the spare parts. January 12, 1923. ---- My comments: Around here, in Denmark, this is a well known way to deal with Problems: First you express your official position, to make sure, that this is dealt with. Secondly you involve yourself into the solution of the problem. And last, you excuse the person responsible. My impression is, that the leader of the Norinab factory may have suffered from some kind of depression or the like. After all, he came from a major position, very close to the imperial german navy, and within 5 years, he had seen his country litteraly disintegrate, Der kaiser had left the country, civil war, hunger, and to top all this, he has been sent deep into a swedish forest, with 8-9 german workers and probably shill cries for efficiency. (I note, that he is reluctant to contact Zeiss in Germany!) Swedish Forests have many qualities, but if you are depressed, and from a city in central Europa, they can look like the end of the world. Especially, when it rains. I get a picture of an elderly man, who is alone, and doing a job, he cannot cope with anymore. His technical skills unmentioned. It is not new to see a gifted and skilled craftsman, turned into a bad manager. Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___ele.dk ============================================================ Subject: Re: A Word on Glass Types From: "William Cook" A word or two on glass choices for prisms. Consumer optics can be a cutthroat business. The competition is tough and saving a nickel here and there can add up to millions during the course of a year, or the life expectancy of a given binocular model. Most consumers think optics are “baked by elves in a hollow tree.” They don’t know any more; they don’t WANT to know any more. Consequently, anything they see in print must be true. My dear mother was illiterate. However, she was a long way from being stupid. When I was 6-years old, she warned me about “cheats” I would meet in the course of my life. After beating my socks off at a card game, she showed me how she had so thoroughly slaughtered me. Then, she looked me in the eyes and said: “Son, you must always remember that there is often MORE in KEEPING SCORE than there is in PLAYING THE GAME. Any company that can make the consumer belief their fish are fresher than the competition, will, at least temporarily, have the competitive edge. People like to have the latest and greatest, even when there is not a spoonful of difference between the latest and greatest and the not so latest and far from greatest. About 10 years ago, one company tried to make a splash in the American market by offering binos with aspheric lenses. The binoculars even touted “aspheric” in the nomenclature (I thought I would throw that word at ‘ya; it gets the military types all goosebumpy). In theory, the binoculars should have been the best on the market. However, “THEORY” is a massive word, and volumes could be written about things that “should have been”! The fact of the matter was—and I illustrated this to the rep, personally—the binoculars were no match for even an entry level Swarovski, Leica or Zeiss—with traditional spherical optics. In fact, each sample had dust—and in some cases grease—on some of the internal optics. Thus, for “aspheric” to be of value, it needed to be more than a word. The same can be true for glass types. Yes, BAK4 is a better glass type for some applications than BK7. However, the ‘ole square box in the eyepiece is—at least in my opinion—WAY over emphasized. During the day, our eyes are constricted to the point that the grayed out portion of the bundle is not entering our eyes. At night, our eyes are most sensitive off axis. Yes, it looks good in print. But, is it better for the reasons most often stated? You decide. So what is the best type of glass for a binocular prism? Yes, I DO know; and my view is hard to debate. The best glass for binocular prisms is the glass that was chosen to get the most from the curves, spacings and glass types found in the eyepiece and objectives! Binocular and telescope LIST sorts often see things in terms of prisms and lenses. Lens designers see things in terms of whole systems. That’s why they get the big offices and big dollars while we just hang out on the web and form mutual admirations societies like the bino list. ;-) Just a thought, Bill Cook PS Of course, guys like Dick get to be mutually admired while getting the big bucks, anyway. Also, if you do not hear from me for a good while, it may be because I am in jail. If one more turkey brings in his plastic paperweight telescope—which he didn’t buy from me—so that I can show him how to focus the darn thing, I may snap and throw him through a window. Frankly, if I could orchestrate it, I would have Mars blown up! I LOVE to offer good customer support, but some of the folks I have been trying to help lately slept through 5th grade science . . . and 6th grade science . . . and 7th grade science . . . and 8th grade science . . . . . . . =============================================== Subject: reply From: Binofixer@___m >>PS If there is a scientific name for that which I call "Conditional Alignment," I would like to be advised. I have no need to be original at the expense of plagiarism.<< Bill, I looked through my manuals, and went back through your letter. The term "conditional alignment" as described in your letter means "not collimated." So conditional alignment = not collimated, unless you look on a particular web site selling big binoculars. They have a section describing collimation (do it yourself using a tree @___ards) as "perfect collimation." So, CONDITIONAL ALIGNMENT = NOT COLLIMATED= PERFECT COLLIMATION. See how that works? All folks need is a jewelers screw driver to pass among themselves to re-tweak a glass for each individual, and get perfect collimation. No unsightly collimators or trained professionals to deal with. A sentence at this web site says you must first determine which side is off. Meaning, is your left swing barrel off, or your right stationary barrel off? Without a collimator, nobody knows. Here comes the double snake bite! Opps, sorry, I meant "perfect collimation." To think we have been struggling all these years to achieve only "Mil-Spec" tolerances for folks, when we could throw out our collimators and get a glass in "perfect collimation" using a tree at only 100 yards! Cory Suddarth Suddarth Optical Repair Servicing Optics Since 1975 U.S. Navy Trained Opticalman Former Senior Optical Technician - Captain's Nautical Supply Former Senior Optical Technician - Orion Telescope and Binocular Center =============================================================== Subject: Collimation From: I like to comment on William Cooks: Collimation Revisited In those reports, I recently translated, regarding the Norinab Company, I omitted several very technical parts. One of these omitted parts was describing an instrument that included, what the danish army officer called a "monocular, suspended like a pendulum", used for collimation of binoculars. He goes on describing how the optical axis of the monocular is aligned with the fixture for the axis between the two half parts of the binocular. After the Binocular was fixed, each "barrel" or telescope was aligned individually, to the common axis. This appear to have been a revelation for the danish army officer in charge. And right now, I am thinking: How does one collimate an old Goerz Binocular, where there is no central axis to fix it with...only two singular hinges? Either the fixture for this must be difficult to make, or maybe they didn´t collimate those field glasses correctly. In fact, there migth be more to that large cup like knob at the far end of the axis on many military binoculars of the time. It may be present because military binos must be able to be collimated. And then it is part of the fixture for this process. I have been wondering, why many of these cups did have such a nice smooth concave hemispheric surface. It looks nice, but it may have a function too. Not as I thought, just a knob for fixing the IPD of an individual user. Presently...does a missing axis, mean that the producer has no intention of making collimation possible. In other words..is a central axis bar a mark of quality?. Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___ele.dk ----------------- Some models of binoculars, including an early Goerz model, did not have a center post, but used two narrow hinges at the front and back of the binocular. The Goerz was quite solidly built and not inferior quality. Collimation would involve mounting the binoculars on the hinges, with a pair of holes where the axis should be. I'd guess a jig would do the job, but I'm sure it wasnt easy. --Peter ====================================================== Subject: Part required for B & L 6 x 30 From: "Keith Shackleton" I have recently acquired a pair of Bausch & Lomb 6x30 porro prism binoculars. They are inscribed on the right top plate 'Military Stereo 6 X 30' and on the left top plate 'Bausch & Lomb Optical Co Rochester NY USA' There is a further inscription on the right top plate: 'S.1 08950' The bottom plates are each inscribed with a broad arrow. From the information given by the previous owner, the binoculars were owned by his father, an officer in the British Army in the First World War. According to Fred Watson's little binocular book, the mark S1 was applied to prismatic binoculars first grade after testing and acceptance into British Service use in WW1. Unfortunately, the binoculars are missing one screw-in eye cup. Can you advise me of any dealers in the USA who may be likely to have a replacement eyecup in stock? With thanks Keith Shackleton =================================================== Subject: RE: Bakelite Eyecups for binoculars From: Paul Johnston Does anyone know where I can obtain a supply of bakelite material? I am looking for a block in dark grey or black that I can have machined into replacement eyecups. Specifically the wartime 7x50, 10x50 Zeiss and 7x50 Leitz. Thanks, Paul Johnston pjohnston@___ond.com ------ I've wondered how workable bakelite is, using machining techniques; it has fibers which might leave a rough surface. Let us know how this works out. --Peter ======================================================= Subject: Russian 6x30 From: Jwangseaview@___m Did you or anybodyelse tried the Russian 6x30 wide engle binoculars? how is it compare with the 7x30 or 8x42? this 6x30 do not appear have the same long eye pieces. what interested me was the 12 degree view angle. did anybody compare with Sard 6x42? have u seen Russian military 8x30 wide angle binoculars? with fat eye pieces? look like a sister of Sard. ======================================================= Subject: Replies From: gordiray@___t Lets us get this right. I suggest Smith, Modern Optical Engineering, McGraw-Hill. The denser glasses are desirable to avoid clipping, which occurs when some rays near the field edge fail to be totally internally reflected. Other rays in the cone from a point near the field edge will be totally internally reflected. The axis of this cone is not the optical axis. There are diagrams in Henson, Smith , Mil-Hndbk-141, etc . Vignetting is something else, an inverse function of prism size, and has been allowed in large amounts in prism binoculars . Clipping is the blue shading surrounding a bright square in the exit pupil . Vignetting is less obvious. Somebody in a SPIE publication called clipping an axial effect. Who was it, SPIE members? I call it erroneous. The right angle Fuji 25 x 150 used a pentaprism which was undersize relative to the normal Porro II which was downstream. Andy Toth noticed vignetting to be more than in his normal 25 x 150. The pentas came from a Japanese military rangefinder program of Fuji. Re: prism glasses. The Fuji 25 x150 uses bk-7. Who needs BaK-4 at f/5., in a Porro II? Bk-7 has higher transmission, costs less, is lighter, and easier to work. A drawing and calculation will show if higher indices are needed in a particular case. --Gordon Rayner ================================================== Subject: Large binocular Newtonian telescope At this weekend's Oregon Star Party, I took pictures of Bruce Sayer's 22 inch binocular Newtonian. A directory of 22 images is found at: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/OSP.2003.Sayre/ --Peter ==================================================== ==================================================== Binocular List #268: 08 September 2003 ============================================ Subject: Carl Zeiss 7x30 Marineglas From: CARRLANE@___m I have a Carl Zeiss 7x30 Marineglas binoculars I have not been able to document in any source. The binoculars are marked "Carl Zeiss Jena" on the left prism housing and "Marineglas 523095 7X" on the right housing. The ocular glass measures 15mm diameter and the objectives measure 30mm. The prism top/bottoms are made from brass. There is an interocular lock at the bottom of the binocular center hinge. The glasses are not mis- marked (6X vs. 7X) as the exit pupil is correct for a 7x30 binocular (approx 4mm). There is a serial number stamped in the side of the lower prism cover (79604). I am sure these binoculars are authentic and not a knockoff or counterfeit. Any thoughts from your member list on these binoculars? I believe the serial number would date them post WWI. --Rich Lane ============================================ Subject: Feldstecher Information From: "Jack Kelly" I'm getting close to finishing an article on the early Zeiss Feldstecher binocular series for Zeiss Historica but I need a little more information. I have catalog copies from October 1894, 1896, 1897, 1899, June 1904, July 1906 and August 1907. As you can see, there is a big hole from 1899 to 1904 and I would like to ask you to poll you list members to see if anyone has any catalogs to fill these holes. It would be quite useful to make my work a little more definitive. In particular, I have found that sometime between 1899 and 1904 the weight of the binocular increased, especially in the 6x model due to a significant increase in the wall thickness of the body castings.(see photos) This followed an increase in the diameter of the ocular tube which was made to accommodate a larger ocular field lens providing an increase in field of view. The larger ocular tube fits easily into either the thin or thick walled binocular body so why did they increase the body wall thickness? And when? The weight of the glass shown in the catalog should tell me when the change was made if we can find the missing catalogs. Regards, Jack ----------- The photos: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/Small.and.Large.1.jpg http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/Small.and.Large.2.jpg ======================================= Subject: WWII Infra-red filters From: Peter Abrahams From an earlier list: "Simon Gunning showed me some U.S. military binoculars and one accessory I have never seen. It is similar in appearance to the polarizing filters that attach to eyepieces of WWII U.S. Navy 7 x 50s, but it is marked 'V.D. Filter, Infra-red, USMC-44, Beck-Lee Corp'." I found an ad in Sky & Telescope, May 1948, for a similar filter that attaches to the objective of a binocular. I do not know how IR filters were used in WWII......any clues would be welcome. http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/IR.filters.Harry.Ross.S-T.May.1948p184.JPG See Simon's web site on vintage military binoculars at: http://www.oemspace.co.uk/bios/index.htm ============================================================== Subject: Parts available From: "William M. Beacom" > Part required for B & L 6 x 30 I have replacement eyecups for pre-war Zeiss and Leitz 7X50 and 10x50 at $16 a pair prepaid. I also have eyecups for 6x30-7X50 WWll binoculars at $12.50 a pair prepaid. I have a very few for 7X50 Spencer at $17.50 a pair Prepaid: These are all black. -- Bill Beacom ======================================================= Subject: Eyecups From: The writer may want to try I Miller in Philadelphia-whom I alluded to in the last few issues of your missive for replacement eyecups. The old military glass should be right up their alley. I've sought for sometime one of the russian wide field 8x30s without luck. Am planning on getting one of the 6x30s soon. Will let the group know about them when I do. Arnie ======================================================= Subject: B & L in U.K. From: Stephen Sambrook The following might interest Keith Shackleton . . . Bausch & Lomb Military Stereo binocs: The Bausch & Lomb Military Stereo binocs made to British contracts in 1915 are unusual in that inspection and British serial-marking was done at the factory rather than at Woolwich Arsenal in London (a bit like the Russian-contract Smith & Wesson revolvers in the late 19th century, where the foreign state customer had a resident inpsector or inspectors at the US factory). I wonder if the 'S 1' numbers on the B&L glasses are part of the factory serial numbering sequence, or whether a block of serials was specified in the British order ? Do any B&L collectors have any information on this? As to a replacement eyecup, I think there may be more than one pattern. Maybe the easiest way is to look for another scrap binoc and try to cannibalise it . . . Best wishes Stephen Sambrook PS - is a pair of binoculars really four telescopes ? Or should we talk about a pair of monoculars ? And how many Angels can stand on the head of a pin ? Cheers Stephen ==================================================== Subject: Bakelite Eyecups From: Paul Johnston Bakelite can be machined but requires polishing with jewelers paste to give a smooth finish. Regards, Paul Johnston ======================================================== Subject: Glass, collimators From: gordiray@___t The prism glass and its effect on aberrations is discussed in detail in Chapter A8 of vol. I of the Willmann-Bell reorganized and edited Amateur Telescope Making books originally edited by Ingalls and published by scientific american. The equations in the Scientific Am. were misprinted. I was having problems with them, so called Selby, who dug up and sent to me his original, which I sent to both publishers. So I got a minor credit. As we know, Hanna has a big binocular section. Does his second method, on p. 411 of the Willmann-Bell vol 2, qualify as "tail of arc? I have used both. For rapid sorting to see which barrel is the worst, a swingless method method is desirable, obviously particularly of the hinge is stiff or inaccessible, as is so often the case these days. If one can directly see the point at whic h the hinge axis intersects a plane at infinity, rather than inferring it from tail-of - arc swinging, things are faster and simpler, and more than adequately accurate. One can use the front of the.binocularas approximately orthogonal to the hinge axis, an assumption implicit in the Fuji UBMM folded reflecting projection collimation rig. A menu of appropriate devices for this or hinge riding in vee blocks is available in optical tooling devices(industrial surveying), weapon or camera sights, green laser pointers, etc. Of course , a comparator to view the hinge axis intersection at infinity simultaneously with the view through one barrel of the binocular, is required. If one has the room, an unfolded projection setup can be quite simple and comfortable. I prefer more portable setups, such as the above. --Gordon Rayner ========================================================================= Subject: History of the 'Selsi' name http://www.selsioptics.com/about.htm SELSI COMPANY, INC. I M P O R T E R S Binoculars • Opera And Sports Glasses • Telescopes Microscopes • Magnifiers • Optical Specialities Selsi Company, Inc. traces its beginning back to 1854, when its predecessor Sussfeld Lorsch Company was created to import optical products from Europe. Before the turn of the 20th century, the business was renamed Sussfeld, Lorsch and Schimmel when a relative joined the growing company. The business flourished as it became a leader of imported optics such as binoculars and telescopes as well as watches and clocks. In 1929, the business was incorporated and became known as Selsi Company, Inc. The name was derived from combining the founding partners’ initials with two vowels. “Selsi” had been one of Sussfeld, Lorsch and Schimmel’s trade names, and had been used on its products for many years. Selsi Company, Inc. has a long history of adapting to changing technologies and international markets. After World War II, much of the optical market moved from Europe to the Far East, and Selsi was one of the first United States importers to open an office in Tokyo. Today, Selsi is proud to present a large collection of fine optical products including prism binoculars, sport and opera glasses, telescopes, monoculars, readers, and magnifiers. Selsi Company, Inc. also supplies a large number of low vision products to the industry. Walter Silbernagel, President P.O. Box 10 • 194 Greenwood Ave. • Midland Park, NJ • 07432 201•612•9200 / 800•275•7357 / FAX: 201•612•9548 www.selsioptics.com =========================================================== Subject: Introduction From: jdamodels@___m I have been collecting for about one year and have about 80 binoculars in my collection at this time. I have no allegiance to any one maker or type, but I do favor prismatic glasses by makers with reasonably high standards of quality. All my specimens are in reasonably good to excellent condition. I have no basket cases. Most of my collection is in optically usable condition and those that are not will be serviced as the several technicians who I deal with have time for the work. I am generally not in favor of cosmetic restoration, but I will have an occasional glass restored if it is in very poor condition or has been previously restored to a poor standard. I do use binoculars from my collection as frequently as I can for nature watching and the occasional ball game, but always with great care. My primary interest is WW2 binoculars. I have examples form Germany, Great Britain, France, Japan and the United States. I have no emphasis on any one country or branch of the services and I do not favor allied examples over axis examples. I do not object to glasses with 3rd Reich markings but I have not made them a focal point of my collection. I am also very interested in Military and civilian prismatic binoculars from the very late 19th century through about 1920. My emphasis here is on Goerz and Bausch & Lomb, though I have several Zeiss glasses from this period including an 1998-1899 Marine Revolver (a.k.a. Admiral Togo glass). I also have a small weakness for Zeiss Teleater 3x opera glasses. I have no binoculars from after 1945 at this time and doubt that I will pursue any in the near future. I generally shy away from large tripod-mounted binoculars due to space limitations. I do have a fairly nice cxn 10x80 Flakglas with the tripod and all the parts except the electrical cable. It makes a very nice display. Regards, John Anderson ----------- John sent some photos of some very unusual B & L binoculars that I will scan & post for comment. --Peter ============================================================= Subject: List trivia From: Peter Abrahams We recently acquired the 150th list member. Those of you with web pages know that a really troublesome amount of 'spam' is received when you are publicly on-line like that. 50-80 spams a day is typical. When I travel, it really gets to be a problem. So, I'll be experimenting with various anti-spam programs. I mention this because they all can interfere with normal email. If you have any problem emailing me.......apologies in advance, and try asking another list member if you wish. The first anti spam effort is 'Real Time Black Hole Lists' from europa.com, which I just initiated. --Peter ========================================================== ============================================================ Binocular List #269: 19 September 2003 ======================================================== Subject: Carl Zeiss 7x30 Marineglas From: CARRLANE@___m I have a Carl Zeiss 7x30 Marineglas binoculars I have not been able to document in any source. The binoculars are marked "Carl Zeiss Jena" on the left prism housing and "Marineglas 523095 7X" on the right housing. The ocular glass measures 15mm diameter and the objectives measure 30mm. The prism top/bottoms are made from brass. There is an interocular lock at the bottom of the binocular center hinge. The glasses are not mis- marked (6X vs. 7X) as the exit pupil is correct for a 7x30 binocular (approx 4mm). There is a serial number stamped in the side of the lower prism cover (79604). I am sure these binoculars are authentic and not a knockoff or counterfeit. Any thoughts from your member list on these binoculars? I believe the serial number would date them post WWI. Photos of the Carl Zeiss 7x30 Marineglas Binoculars are at: http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas1.jpg http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas2.jpg http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas3.jpg http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas4.jpg http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas5.jpg http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas6.jpg http://members.aol.com/carrlane/myhomepage/mglas7.jpg --Rich Lane ======================================================= Subject: B&L Mystery Binoculars From: jdamodels@___m Included in my small Bausch & Lomb collection are three U.S. Navy binoculars that are something of a mystery to me. I can find no reference to the first in any of the books that I have. The second and third, I have suspicions about but cannot be sure of. I was hoping that you of persons that you may know might be able to shed some light on them for me. I have already sent this information to Paul Neupert (a Zeiss Historica Society member), but he is as mystified as I am. I have enclosed photographs of these for your reference. The first binocular is the strangest. I have understood that, due to it's association with Zeiss in the early 1900's, Bausch & Lomb used Zeiss' patented binocular format with objectives spaced further apart than the oculars. This glass is of the early Goerz format and has center focusing. The size is approximately 4" long by 3 7/8" wide. The objective lenses are approximately 21mm in diameter. The case appears to be it's original case and is of the same construction that I have noted in civilian B&L cases from the early 1900's. The binocular is marked as follows (I use a slash to indicate a new line): Left shoulder: "POWER - 8. / PAT. OCT. 28. 1902" Right shoulder: "BAUSCH & LOMB OPTICAL CO. / ROCHESTER. N.Y." I.P.D. cap: "1.2.3.4.5 1200?" (last number obscured - possibly "2") Left ocular (in place of diopter scale): "SOUTHERN OPTICAL CO., INC. Louisville, Ky." Left front prism cover (viewed from the front): "U.S. NAVY" Right front prism cover (viewed from the front): "R (partially inside a flattened hexagon) 19100". ---- The second binocular is an early 10x50. It has aluminum eyecups with integral yellow filters that are engaged by rotating small toothed wheels. It measures approx. 7 7/8" long (with the sun shades retracted) by 5 1/4" wide. There is no lettering under the sun shades. The small flared section between the two black rings on the objective tubes seems unusual. It looks to me as though this model might be an evolution of a preexisting 40mm or 45mm model. However, I have never seen or heard of a B&L 40mm or 45mm binocular of this style. I have also enclosed a photo of it's case. The binocular fits in the case fairly well but at something of an angle due to it's peculiar shape. I am not sure that this is the original case. It is possible that this is the binocular mentioned in James W. Stoker's "U.S. Navy Binocular Information" chart (found in Dr. Hans Seeger's "Military Binoculars and Telescopes..." on page 339) as item #73. Everything fits except the body. He states that this glass uses the same body as the 6x30 EE. The prism housings are virtually identical, but my 10x50 uses a totally different hinge and has no tensioning knob. If Mr. Stoker is referring only to the prism housings, then this may be that glass. The binocular is marked as follows: Left shoulder: "PRISM MARINE / 50mm APERT. / 10 POWER" inside the typical B&L ring within a ring device. Right shoulder: "BAUSCH & LOMB OPTICAL CO. / U.S.A. / ROCHESTER, N.Y." inside the typical B&L triangle within a ring within a ring device. There is some surface corrosion around the lettering, but it is reasonably legible with a loupe. Left front prism cover (viewed from the front): "U.S. NAVY" Right front prism cover edge (viewed from bottom): "N (inside parallelogram) 2888" --------- The third binocular is a 7x50 in the classic Bausch & Lomb style: I would guess that it dates from around 1940. I have consulted the 1944 "Schedule of Binoculars. Navy Dept. Bureau of Ships, Washington D.C." on page 62 or Dr. Seeger's book. A B&L Mk. 13, Mod. 6 is listed, but there is no information other than it's being an obsolete Bureau of Ships contract. However, my binocular is clearly inscribed "BU. OF ORD." Again, I have seen no example of this binocular mentioned or shown in any books that I have. It appears to have been reconditioned by the government resulting in it's coated lenses and the usual "COATED OPTICS" warning decal. The binocular is labeled as follows: Left shoulder: "7x50" (later "COATED OPTICS" warning decal is present). Right shoulder: "MARK XIII MOD.6 NO.4054 / U.S. NAVY, BU. OF ORD. / INSP. H.T.M. (this is followed by a small anchor symbol on the same line) / BAUSCH / & LOMB / OPT. CO. / ROCHESTER / N.Y. U.S.A" Bending bar cap, front: "DES. PAT. 83,934 / SER. UX9763" That is all I know. If you or anyone that you know has any information about these binoculars, I would be very grateful. Even your educated guesses would be helpful. My e-mail address is: jdamodels@___m. Thank you very much. John Anderson ---------------------- John's first binocular has been noted by list members; it was a (relatively) inexpensive model introduced by B&L while they were manufacturing under Zeiss license in the very early 1900s. They are scarce & very little is known about them. The second model, a 10 x 50, is an odd configuration that might be new to me. I posted an image and welcome feedback: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/B.&.L.10x50.USN.J.Anderson.jpg 56kb The third binocular is a standard Mk 13 Mod 6, but marked Bu Ord instead of the usual Bu Ships. I'm not sure how significant this is, but any ideas are welcome. -- Peter ========================================================= Subject: Count Von Zepplin with binoculars From: "Lucas, Gene" Can anyone identify the binoculars in this on-line photo of Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin? -- Gene Lucas Title: Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin, airship designer, 1910. http://www.nmsi.ac.uk/piclib/imagerecord.asp?id=10401708 ------ They look like a generic field glass to me; but a great photo nonetheless. --Peter ========================================== Subject: SKK From: "geneharryman" There was a Japanese binocular made in Occupied Japan and for a while that after labeled 'SKK' imposed over several different graphics at differnt times (prisms, Mt Fuji, etc.). At one point it was imported to the U.S. by Orient. If one looks on the "J" listings, there are multiple possibilities for this "SKK" acronym. If anyone knows which Japanses optical company (not marketer) used this as a logo I would be appreciate it if you could let me know. Thanks - Gene ======================================== Subject: Bakelite From: "Nyman Sven-Olof SIV MTA" Here is an contribution from sweden. First we will again say how much we enjoy to receive the list. In list 266 was a question on bakelite. My father(age 80) has a very long experience due to machining bakelite. Also to make eyecups to his binocular-collection (aprox. 180 pcs) when he find binoculars without eyecups on fleamarkets. (a good arguement for hoggling the price) Bakelite can be ordered from specialized dealers. The most important is to use sharp tools. Then its possible to make clean threads and get a nice surface. The speed depends on the diameter of the material, but at 1 and 3/8 inch of diameter on the eyecup, a speed of 450 r/m is preferable , when forming the eyecup. This moment is quite simple to do. Then comes the more sofisticated part, when to make the threading. You have to decrease the speed of the machine due to its small numer of threads to do (3-10?) If you don´t reduce the speed you destroy the cup in fragments of seconds. When the thread is ready the eyecup bakelite has to be polished with very fine steelwool (000). Now the result is a dark grey or brown eyecup which is quite ugly. The final moment is when you are satisfied with the surface and smoothening but not the color. Now you take a little oil on a cotton cloth and polish it up to dark black. The eyecup is ready. Attention!!. Before you use all types of rotating machines you must be avare of the high risks to get accidents and get loose of your eyes or fingers etc. Our advise is to first get contact with an experienced craftman or perhaps a craftschool to show you if you are unsure. rgds Björn and Sven-Olof Nyman Sweden ========================================= Subject: Bakelite etc. From: gordiray@___t Are you after total originality? Phenolic WW II were mostly/all molded, I believe. It does not machine well. Black Delrin does. Bore the treads inside as deeply as the biggest fitting boring bar will go. Damp incipient vibrations with your hand, etc. Keep it cool with water soluble fluid. Then use a form tool and/or files to round the external edge. Use kitchen scrubber in water to blend curve by hand. Cut off eyecup. Repeat, until you run out of the bored internal thread. Sell the extras. A thread-less design for drill press only is: Cut plate of appropriate thickness into octagons or more-sided-agons. Central drill to match screw in a little cylindrical workholder with an axial tapped hole. Chuck assembly. File to diameter desired, and then round one side of the periphery (top or bottom) with file, abrasive loaded kitchen scrubber, etc. De-mount. Hold in vise with rubber pads at edges to increase friction. Drill (or bore) to fit over male threads on eyepiece. Drill and tap one to three radial holes for nylon setscrews . Voila. --Gordon Rayner ======================================================== Subject: Catalogs, manuals, etc. Deutsche Optik has a new (?) reprint listed on p28 of their printed catalog. Navships 250-624-2, Manual for Overhaul, Repair, and Handling of 7 x 50 Binoculars with Parts Catalog. 1951. 116pp. $20. Presumably this can be found via links at their forum page: http://www.deutscheoptik.com/forums.php -------------------------- The Smithsonian has scanned & posted catalogs from scientific instrument manufacturers. http://www.sil.si.edu/DigitalCollections/Trade-Literature/Scientific- instruments/explore.htm So far, the only binocular papers are: The Warner & Swasey Prism Binocular. Circular 110, 1904. 4pp. The Warner & Swasey Prism Binocular, n.d., 29pp. The Warner & Swasey Prism Field Glass, n.d., 32 pp. However, the last two are essentially identical. --Peter ========================================================= ========================================================== Binocular List #270: 24 Sept. 2003 =================================================== Subject: 7X Marineglas From: "Jack Kelly" Rich's photos of the 7X Marineglas raise some interesting questions. First, in all my Zeiss production records and catalogs there is no mention anywhere of a 7x30 binocular. Second, the size of the ocular eye lens is much larger than anything found before about serial number 1,000,000 (1919) when the first wide angle Zeiss binoculars (Deltrentis and Delturis) were introduced. Third, Rich's 7x30 ( no. 523095) is very close in number to a Marineglas in my collection (553088). The logos certainly look authentic. The locking nut on the front is the same; the number stamped into the bottom prism cover (79604) is in the same place as one on my glass (104601) and; the objective trim rings on Rich's glass are of the later stamped design as they are on my glass. The body design is also the later design with shorter objective tubes and longer body. As most everyone knows, the Marineglas and 6x30 Silvamar are essentially the same glass and appear to have gone through the same objective trim and body size evolution. I also have in my collection a Swiss Army 6x30 dated 1912 (no.365315) and marked Armee- Modell, Vergr.=6. It, too, is essentially identical to the Silvarmar and Marineglas of the era. It is my opinion that, while there may be subtle differences between the various 6x30 glasses to meet the needs of marine service or specific military specifications, all the 6x30 binoculars produced by Zeiss in this time period were essentially identical. Even the reduction in the diameter of the ocular eye lens that took place sometime after s/n 299111 occurred in the Silvarmar, Marineglas and the Swiss Armee-Model. This convoluted background now brings us to Rich's 7x30. Was it made by Zeiss? Almost certainly. Is it a production glass? Almost certainly not. Is it representative of the time consistent with its serial number (1914/1915)? Probably not. My guess is that it is an experimental model used to evaluate the new wide angle eyepieces that were introduced in 1919. This could have been done in the 1918-1919 time period using a glass removed from use or previously used by the engineering department for evaluation. It's also possible that it was modified in the field at a later date (post 1919) and fitted with new eyepieces. I think this less likely, however, since the 6x ocular must have been a very common service part. Probably the best next step is to disassemble the ocular and identify its design. The important thing to recognize is that Zeiss was very capable and apparently willing to make one off or special models of their binoculars for those customers willing to pay the price. Steve Rohan has an interesting example of the 15x60 WW I era telescope modified, apparently by Zeiss, to take interchangeable telescope oculars. Regards, Jack =========================================================== Subject: Rubber Eyecups for Kern From: michel bas I recently bought a wonderfull 8x30 1978 KERN Swiss Army (with coated Lens) probably still with Zeiss glass I am looking for new mint rubber eyecups Is there a (Swiss reader of the "binocs-News" who might be able to supply me with these items From the photos it seems me the green rubber wrapped Swiss binocs have the same euescups as my black 1978 one merci michel bas /Paris http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/Kern-8x30-1978web.jpg 129kb http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/Kern-Leica-8x30verte.jpg 13kb ============================================================ Subject: B&L 10x50 Mystery Binocs From: "Jack Kelly" I also have a 10x50 Prism Marine binocular described by John Anderson. It is also marked with a Navy acceptance engraving on the right front prism cover. Interestingly, I also have a 6x30 of the same design. It's marked "US Navy" on the left front cover and appears to be made up from parts. The back covers have the same 10x50 markings as the previous glass. (The 6x30 in my collection is marked 10x50 on the cover plate which makes me doubt a factory job.) The objective tubes from the 10x50 are interchangeable with the 30mm tubes and when interchanged both focus properly! Whether this was made up by some enterprising tech in one of the Navy service shops or a previous owner we will probably never know but Bill Beacom has seen similar models and was the one who pointed this out to me. I have attached a couple of jpegs of the two binoculars. You can see that the bodies, while similar, are not identical. Note the position of the hinge relative to the lug straps. As for John's question on the early B&L binocular, the answer can be found in the B&L catalog from 1903 which lists three models, 5½, 8, and 10½ power, and provides the following explanation: “These Binoculars are constructed on the same principle as the Bausch & Lomb-Zeiss STEREO Binoculars, except that the objective lenses are no farther apart than the eyepieces are, hence the same degree of stereo-scopic relief is not obtained in the image. Next to STEREO, however, they are at least equal to the best to be found in the market and are put forward to meet the demand for a thoroughly reliable and high class prism binocular at a less price than that which the superiority of the STEREO commands.” The 8x B&L-Zeiss Stereo Prism binocular sold for $52.00 and the B&L 8x20 sold for $45.00 in 1903. Both were made in Rochester New York. The reason the B&L glasses were less expensive is that B&L was not required to pay Zeiss a royalty. The Zeiss patent was essentially based on objectives that were spaced further apart than the oculars. Regards, Jack http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/B&L.Prism.Marine.10x50-6x30.jpg 57kb http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/B&L.Prism.Marine.10x50.6x30.jpg 42kb ---------- From: "William M. Beacom" There is no doubt in my mind B&L made this binocular for the U.S. Navy using an EE body design but casting the hinge and strap lugs to accomodate the larger 50mm lense. The early B&L 10X45 a copy of the Terlux was almost impossible to seal, and the Navy urgently needed a higher power Binocular in WW-l. This is not a made up Binocular unless an amateur would have the casting and machining facilities of a Factory. The only part that is a mystery is why they made them Center Focus. My guess is, they only became available toward the end of the war so they sold on the civilian mkt like the Mark-41 without ever being catalogued. I currently own three, all civilian marked but one also has Navy markings. Bill =========================================================== Subject: Russian 20x50, 30x50 From: "Osborn Optical" Has anyone had a chance to evaluate the Russian, SIBIR 20x50 or 30x50 "Newtonian Reflector" hand held binoculars? Someone ask me about them the other day, and I haven't yet had my hand on a pair, or heard from anyone that has. Thanks, Earl ------------ These are named rather inappropriately (not being Newtonian reflectors), and are suspiciously high power, but with Russian glass, quality can come in odd packages. --Peter SIBIR 20x50 30x50 Newtonian Reflector http://www.sibiroptics.com/eng/catalog/yukon20x50.htm http://www.sibiroptics.com/eng/catalog/yukon30x50.htm http://www.sibiroptics.com/eng/catalog/ ============================================================ Subject: U.S. availability of binocular book From: "Mike" New book just in: Gregory, R.C. Notes on Binoculars and Their Use, 2003, Amwell Books (UK), 118 pgs, an interesting summary of Robert Gregory's many years of binocular collecting, not all-inclusive but much good information and valuable opinions, includes a number of b/w photos, binocular specifications for various British, French, and German makers, and a useful bibliography, soft cover, Price $40 http://www.deutscheoptik.com/ ======================================================= Subject: Kronos 6x30 From: I recently obtained a Kronos 6x30 extra wide angle binocular and came accross some excellent reviews by Dr. Holger Merlitz, a physicist in Germany. I highly recommend the reviews and plan to do some comparisons with some other 6x30s in the collection. It is a very impressive glass. The folks at ITEAstronomy are great to talk with and have a vast experience in comparative optics. They feel the Kronos glasses are optically equal to most of the high line Japanese-but a bit shy of Zeiss, Leica and the best of Nikon. Their testing suggests equivilance even with Swarovski. I contacted Dr. Merlitz to discuss the mechanics of Russian binocs. I have been told by immigrants who were involved with manufacture in Russia that in order to meet cold weather requirements the mechanics were often machined loose and various optical greases were used to provide the viscosity appropriate to the climate. In actual practice only the least viscous were used because of low temp specs. We discussed the great question of our age-yellow glass in Eastern binocs. He referenced Albrect Koehler who told him the EDF 7x40 definitely had radiation resistant glass. The 1st ocular lens was a type of flint glass that blackened with radiation. The only other substitutes were yellow tinted. The additional effect of enhanced contrast was appreciated and was a secondary but more long lasting reason. A partial answer at last!! Arnie --------- Kronos EWA 6x30 mm Extra Wide Angle Binoculars http://www.iteastronomy.com/products/binoculars/guide.php?cat=SA%20BINOC Magnification: 6X Angular field of view: 12.5 degrees Eye relief: 17.5mm Resolution: 8" Overall dimensions, mm: 60x121x173 Weight: 0.65 kg (1.43 pounds) Review of the Kronos BPWC2 6x30 binocular, by Holger Merlitz: http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/kronos6x30.html ======================================================================= ======================================================================= Binocular List #271: 03 Oct. 2003 ================================================================ Subject: Russian large binocular manual From: "Lucas, Gene" Here are URLs for Russian large binoculars from the "Novosibirsk Instrument-making Plant" -- This includes some interesting diagrams, including cross-sections of the prisms and eyepieces. The site features many products, including TAL brand telescopes, night vision devices, etc. The large binoculars are shown under the category, "viewing devices". Here is their catalog page, showing several large binoculars -- 10x80 and 15x110 models: http://www.telescopes.ru/product.html?cat=3 PNB-1 15x110 Binocular (shows diagram of optical train) http://www.telescopes.ru/product.html?cat=3&prod=5 PNB-1 Manual (Shows optical train, cross section of eyepieces, mechanics, etc.) http://www.telescopes.ru/manuals/pnb1/pnb1_manual.phtml ================================================================ Subject: 30x180 Russian binocular transmission From: rab Thanks to Al Misiuk, the original "golden coatings" on my Russian 30x180 were stripped, and those surfaces recoated with MgF. This eliminated the pronounced cyan color of images and greatly increased transmission. However, without the original dichroic coating on the objective, secondary color becomes conspicuous, and reduction of acuity is apparent. Al, thankfully, is working to make some custom filters that I can attach to the eyepieces to restore the original spectral transmission. The blue- shifted spectrum combines with the undercorrected chromatic aberration of the human eye to produce a new minimum in the color curve, resulting in extreme visual acuity albeit with a cyan coloration. Friends Dean and Roger here in Tucson transported me and the binoculars to a dark, moonless observing site where we put the 30x180 through its paces observing the summer Milky Way, the last week of August, just after the new moon had set. I took my favorite Nikon 10x70x6.5 Nikons along for comparison. Roger had a 5.5" apochromatic refractor that we also used for comparison. It was immediately obvious that the stars were uncommonly faint in the 30x180, while they were dazzling in the Nikon and the apo refractor. My own exit pupils are doubtless no larger than 6mm. The zero distortion and high optical quality in the 30x180 made for an enjoyable experience. 30X makes many of the clusters and nebulae much more attractive than in the lower power instruments. But the rich powdering of stars in Sagittarius was very subdued. Curiously, I could see none of the usual magenta color flare at night, and bright white stars stayed bright and white...not yellowish, like viewing earth objects during the day. Steve loaned me his precision photometer, which he set up to have a 2-degree restricted field of view, with about a 4 mm aperture. Naturally, the objective of this photometer must be placed in the middle of the exit pupil of the binocular, else vignetting would occur and low transmission calculations would result. But since the field is small, it doesn't actually need to be placed at the location of the Ramsden Disk, so for stability I pushed the photometer head right onto the eyelens, to square it up and center it by eye. The measurements correlate with the impression of low brightness. The 'white light' transmission of the 30x180 comes out at only 32%! This, mind you, with those 'golden coatings' removed. Presumably, with those coatings, the brightness would be cut in half again. Indeed, viewing Sirius with the original coatings gave proof of that. For comparison, I measured the transmission of my Nikon 10x70 (6.5 deg FOV) binoculars, to which I have glued spectacle lenses to the eyepieces, to be 76%. Since these are only MgF coated, this is a reasonable value. A thought: Fresnel losses alone give an pessimistic estimate of transmission for binoculars, since some of that loss is reflected back into the eye rather than being reflected out the front of the binocular. This may account for measurements on uncoated binoculars being higher than simple Fresnel losses would suggest. Mind you, this additional brightness is not a good thing! It is stray light! So there we have it: the 30x180 has a brightness only 42% as great as ordinary MgF coated binoculars. The cause of this is principally the yellow glass used in its elaborate but otherwise excellent eyepieces. Russian binoculars are infamous for their frequent use of yellow glass, which while it may have virtue for daylight use, is a decided handicap for stargazing. It is worth noting that a low-transmission, large exit pupil binocular is superior to a small aperture binocular with high transmission. The contrast of an image, provided the optical are otherwise excellent, is proportional to the size of the exit pupil, even though binoculars don't approach 'diffraction limit'. The 30x180 shows star clusters with a clarity not obtained in similar power, but small exit pupil systems. The importance of diffraction on contrast is also evident with roof prism binoculars, being noticeably poorer if the roof has not been silvered or given a phase-correcting dielectric coating. So, there is some value to these big binoculars, even though it's a shame transmission is so low. Regards, Dick Buchroeder. ==================================================================== I continue to find some good posts on the DO web site 'bulletin board': http://www.deutscheoptik.com/forums.php Posted by Deutsche Optik on 08/12/03 >>How do I open up a 10x80 “Flakfernrohr Without such proprietary tools as grip wrenches, spanner wrenches, and a healthy dose of experience, we would not advise opening a flak glass on your own. Among other things, the gearing system that times the placement of the different filter assemblies is exceedingly difficult to reassemble, and you'll often find haze and spots on the prism elements that you cannot get to without removing the entire prism clusters. Thus, we advise considerable caution in taking on such a project. =========================================================================== =========================================================================== Binocular List #272: 18 October 2003 ==================================================== From: Peter Abrahams Subject: Sold at Christie's If we have any subscribers to the instrument catalogs issued by Christie's auction house, I would be interested in a scan of the catalog entry for the following; perhaps we could have a translation made: "Christies....maritime sale in May....included a large pair of bridge binoculars removed by a Royal Navy boarding party from a Japanese destroyer which surrendered in Penang harbour in September 1945. In the box, a document in Japanese dates them to 1929, a period when Zeiss of Germany was supplying optical instruments for the Imperial Japanese Navy." --Bulletin of the Scientific Instrument Society #78, September 2003, p30. ==================================================== Subject: 98 degree apparent field Orion telescopes, in California, www.telescope.com , is advertising an 'Expanse 7 x 32' with 14 degree field or 98 degrees apparent field, at $119. They look somewhat similar to the Bushnell 7x32 Xtra Wide, which is 13 degrees = 91 degrees AFOV. I like this binocular, though the outer portions of the field of view are as fuzzy as you'd expect & eye relief is minimal; but distortion is quite low, close focus is about 8 feet, and they are comfortable to use. The Bushnells use a mirror immediately behind the objective, then a prism, then a mirror to the eyepiece, resulting in a very compact system with major problems with stray light. It is easy to remove the objective lens to see the optics, and I'll look forward to hearing about the 'Expanse'. --Peter ======================================================== Subject: Zeiss Conquest From: Arthur Tenenholtz Does anyone have any information on Zeiss Conquest binoculars? A web seller is advertising them as being available in December, with a price point between the VictoryII and the Diafun lines. The Zeiss USA web site does not seem to have any information. Arthur Tenenholtz -------------- http://www.binoculars.com/series.asp?SID=2962 8x30, 10x30, 12x45, 15x45 ======================================================= Subject: Hamica From: Just a short question. Does anyone know a "cyclop" type binocular made by Hamica.? Large single objective tube and two oculars. Sharpness or magnification is motor driven. Most likely late 1970ies. Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___ele.dk ====================================================== Subject: Fw: 7x50's From: "Mike" I thought your readers would find the following of interest. The first is a new wide field 7x50 that Miyauchi is in the process of completing. It's a rather stubby design and I don't know how it will work in the hand, but first samples should be available shortly. The other is a new ED eyelenses and a Chinese-made biocular spotting scope, are being imported by a long-time British optical distributor. In particular, the spotting scopes have already achieved some distribution here, but their miserable mechanical quality has made them a difficult sell. However, a re-design is underway and next year might see a kinder gentler model. Also incoming from Sweden: some interesting WWII Panzer tank sights by Carl Zeiss-Jena. More on those shortly. best/ Mike Rivkin Deutsche Optik www.deutscheoptik.com --------------- http://www.monkoptics.co.uk/index.html The Chinese 'biocular' has two eyepieces into one objective, and the British distributor seems unaware that 'biocular' is already used, to describe 'one eyepiece for two eyes' - like looking through a 4 inch magnifying glass with both eyes. As Mike noted, the Japanese made something of the 'two eyepieces - one objective' variety, which I've only seen in pictures. I have also seen a European made 'two eyepieces - one objective' unit, that looked about 1920s. Mike didn't have an image of the Miyauchi on his site yet, so I'll post an address where an image can be found. I like the design, though there has been some discussion on astronomy lists that it is rather effete - some people only like black (which I think is a mistake, it ensures the binocular will get overheated in the sun.) A wide angle 7 x 50 will be a very welcome addition; Zeiss made the excellent 7 x 50 'Artl' during WWII; and the Bushnell 7 x 50 Custom was very good; but overall the 7 x 50 WA has been very neglected, and other Japanese models I've seen have been poor quality. http://www.oberwerk.com/bigbinos/images/m7x50-3.jpg 7x50, 9.5°FOV, Apparent FOV is 68 degrees, individual focus, nitrogen filled, waterproof. Possibly about $700. "the eyepieces have hemi-spherical lenses" (hemispheres! what will they think of next?) --Peter ================================================= Subject: WWII AAA Searchlight Binocular Mount From: "Lucas, Gene" Just bumped into this web page (have not fully explored what's here), on WWII anti- aircraft (AAA) units, http://www.skylighters.org/photos/index.html which has scans of the manual for a WWII anti-aircraft searchlight TM 5-7144, 60 inch GE 1941 Searchlight http://www.skylighters.org/special/fm/pindex.html Includes pages on the binocular mounting (appears to be standard 7x50 or similar): http://www.skylighters.org/special/fm/fm11.html Shows overall view of searchlight equipment, including binocular mount (control station): http://www.skylighters.org/special/fm/fm34.html ------------ Here is a commercial (Swedish?) web site featuring high-end military type gyro stabilized binocular systems: http://www.laseroptronix.se/gyro/gystsys.html (Have not fully checked this one out, but it looks like Government expen$ive level!) Neat to look at, though. Like a former US Senator was found of saying, "A Billlion here and a Billion there, pretty soon you're talking REAL money!" --------------- An extensive site with lots o' info on binoculars -- many links: http://wntapp.cc.utexas.edu/~ecannon/binoculars.html Cheers, Gene Lucas (17250) ============================================================ =========================================================== Binocular List #273: 26 October 2003 ============================================================ Subject: Nedinsco 7x50 From: guus kasteel May be there are some readers of the list who have an answer for me. Quite some time ago I picked up a Nedinsco Venlo 7x50 "Nedelta" binocular identical to the one on the picture, only the serial number is earlier. It has a normal type of reticule in the left ocular, with the standard mil-6400 scales horizontal and vertical. However, a few weeks ago, I ran into another Nedinsco Venlo 7x50 "Nedelta" binocular, which has on the left prism house cover a deviating inscription, namely "GRADEN". This translates from the Dutch into "degrees". This inscription refers to the uncommon reticule, obviously in degrees instead of mils. More strange even is that the scale (only horizontal) is only 1.5 degrees to the left and 1.5 degrees to the right, 3 in total. Full and half degrees marks are visible. Anyone any idea what the typical use is for the small-angle degree type of reticule? A more technical question is that the oculars are not in line if justified with the same eye. One is about 1.5 mm higher then the other. Is this the result of mismatching one or more of the lenses between left and right? The collimation seems to be perfect. regards Guus ============================================================= Subject: Zeika From: Re:cyclops binocular. My late father-in-law brought back such a glass from Asia during his Vietnam service as an USAF Colonel. I don't know where in Asia he bought it, as his duties brought him to Vietnam, Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan. The glass in question is made by Zeika Opt. Co. and is very odd. It runs on 2 AA batteries and has 2 oculars which are hand focused and marked +2 to -4 (diopters??). The body is covered in black finely textured letherette and is centally hinged. The angle is marked on the left of the axis 70,65,60 degrees. The hinge runs the length of the boday and is 27/8"wide. On top of the right body half are two buttons, the priximal is red and labled 21/2X, the distal green and 8X. The R prism cover (they are flat) says Field 3degrees 35' at 8X, beneath is says 21/2-(actually an approx sign, wavy line)8X 35. The front of the L half has a round screw out disk for the batteries. The single objective is marked on the lens ring Zeika Power Zoom Scope No. 33980. and is fixed to the scope. It does turn like a manually focusing lens with a red dot on the body under the rotating marks infinity to 50 feet in green and meters above in white. However, I can detect no change in image when you rotate it. The zoom is all internal with no rotation of the lens body when moving-you can hear the motor whir. In addition there is a screw on extra objective lens marked Zeika Zoom Scope 4-12X Attachment. There is a soft vinyl fitted case. Using the scope gives excellent resolution and color, very narrow field and it is necessary to adjust the eyepieces to fine focus when zooming in an out. You can focus with the zoom by slightly adusting power. In a microscope I would say it the objectives are not fully parfocal. It is cool looking piece. Clearly of very high quality (execpt for the fine focus with zoom-but that is usual in zoom scopes and this seems less than in some zoom binocs I've played with.) I have no idea what the rotation of the ocular by had accompishes. It has the Passed oval stickerof the Japan telescopes Institute. He served in Vietnam around 1973-74. I hope this is helpful. Oh, about the 7x50 wide angle-what about the Kronus 7x35 WA (I know, Arnie and his Russian stuff again)Compact, 11 degree field of view, max resolution 6", excellent color rendition(no yellow),about 15 feet near focus and about 100USD. For my 53 yo eyes the 5mm exit pupil is probably all I can use anyway. Take care, Arnie ========================================================= Subject: Hamica From: " Jack Kelly" >Does anyone know a "cyclop" type binocular made by Hamica.? Large single objective tube and two oculars. I have one of these strange binocular viewing monoculars in my collection. Mine is Labeled "Hamica Power Zoom Scope", "2½ ~ 8X 35", "Field 3° 35' at 8X". There is also an auxilary lens marked "4~12X Attachment". The zoom is motor driven and powered by 4 AA batteries. Makers codes are JB-2 (Katsuma Kogaku Kikai Co., Ltd.) and JE-46. I have seen this same glass for sale a number of times but do not recall if they were marked Hamica. A similar scope is listed in the 1964-65 "Guidebook of Japanese Optical and Presision Instruments" and offered for sale by Meiji Seiko Co. Ltd. It is listed as a 2.5~8.8x40. Regards, Jack ============================================================ Subject: 10 x 80 repair From: gordiray@___t > >>How do I open up a 10x80 "Flakfernrohr > Without such proprietary tools as grip wrenches, spanner wrenches, and a > healthy dose of experience, we would not advise opening a flak glass on > your own. Among other things, the gearing system that times the placement > of the different filter assemblies is exceedingly difficult to reassemble, Why not discard the filters and their mechanism, then plug the holes with bonded aluminum plates on the inside? Fill the resulting depressions with Devcon F or similar aluminum-epoxy mix. Now much lighter, and the absence of the clear dummy filter does not seem to affect the aberration balance , even for an f/3.5 cone. I have gone further, eliminating the steel IPD change dovetail and its gear and the change knob. Delrin or aluminum stub dovetails hold the moving prism housing. PD change is via setscrews a la gibs on machine tool dovetails. Delrin rings form new eyecups, and aluminum replaces the steel reticle illuminator . Aluminum rings , which can be unthreaded, if you will, and held by setscrews, reinforce and lighten the achilles heel of this design, namely the very thin wall of the objective housing tubes. Now one has a comfortable handheld, with 45 inclination. I made dozens of aluminum headrest supports on which to mount the superior copies of the 25 x 100 cushion for which I made a mold. Of course, the purist non user will recoil. I have a set of the Busch plans, from a LeitzWW II archive. The snippets of this you see are from miscellaneous mailings by me in the past 35 years . Now, we just need a low-risk cold coating for the optics, and all that will be lacking is correction of the sustantial field curvature. --Gordon Rayner ============================================================ Subject: Screw thread substitutions, making collimator targets, setting diopter rings From: gordiray@___t The September-October 2003 issue of Home Shop Machinist has a detailed article on metric-English screw substitutions, in both directions. I have put lots of l0-32 stainless socket caps in M5 holes, for Fuji 25 x 150 headrest support holding. That is two screw out of a six hole pattern, and corrosion resistance was more important than very high torqueing. M5 socket stainless for the application were/are hard to find and the 10-32 in M5 hole is a very good approximation for many turns. The inverse would not fit. A local "factory authorized Fujinon repair " put some 4-40 flatheads in M3 holes. The threads do not hold. I have had to clean out a lot of silicone-RTV mixed with grease around the objectives mounts over the years before adjusting. This mis-use of RTV is not factory practice . RTV is inferior to urethanes and the Simson Elf- Acquitane formulations, or the non-curing, mildly stinky polysulfide Presstite "green wax", duck sh..", or 3M Weatherban The same magazine has an article on making disks. One could make collimator targets from it, sanding polycarbonate diffusers or targets, or combo target-diffusers as modernized versions of the Hanna in ATM II or III material. Illuminators can now be low temperature LED arrays. Radio Shack is selling 5 x20 Golf Scopes for $5. Use for error measurement, diopter setting , alignment, etc. The reticle is not ideal, but can be used . --Gordon Rayner ========================================================== Subject: Miyauchi; booklet From: Fan Tao The Miyauchi 7x50W sounds very promising. Huge 5 element Erfle type oculars with a possibly aspherical surface, 22mm eye relief, Porro II prisms. And the price tag of around $700 seems reasonable to me if it is close in performance to the B&L 7x50WF. I would have preferred 8X magnification but other than that I like the specifications. PDF data sheet at http://www5.ocn.ne.jp/~opt-m/ Peter Hunt is selling a self-published booklet on eBay, "Collecting Old Binoculars". It has 23 pages, around 50 photos of varying quality and as the title implies, shows older (mostly pre WWII) field glasses and binoculars. This booklet is geared towards novices so an advanced collector may not find much information in it. Still, any publication on binocular collecting is welcome since so few exist. The booklet is published in England and the text is in English. I obtained it for about US$12 shipping included and the author seems willing to ship it to other countries. His eBay ID is briseham. Fan Tao =========================================================== Subject: Exit -Pupil Question From: Kennyj2@___m I would greatly appreciate any input from any "binocular group" member with regard to the following questions . Are there any possible reasons why a middle -aged binocular user with an "average presumed " eye -pupil dilation diameter of 3mm in "average to bright " daylight conditions might see what he perceives to be a "superior" image when looking through a 7 x 42 binocular than the image he sees when looking at the same scene from the same distance in the same conditions through the same binocular when that binocular has it's objective lenses "masked down" to 25mm ( and thus still providing an exit -pupil greater than the eye entrance pupil ) ? Also , probably related , possibly not --- is there ANY DIFFERENCE at all with regard to potential resolution , brightness or perceived "sharpness" of a magnified image between masking down a binocular's objectives as in the above example and masking down the exit pupil itself , or in a third possible scenario in which the human eye pupil is dilated to such an extent that it's diameter restricts "human eye entrance pupil area " regardless of the binocular configuration ? Put another way - if the eye is dilated to only 3mm would for example a 10 x 70mm present an image EQUAL in EVERY WAY to that of a 10 x 30 binocular in the same circumstances , if : (1) the same 70mm binocular was being masked down for the purpose of the experiment (2) the 70mm objectives were left unmasked but exit pupil was masked down to 3mm. (3) the 10 x 70 was left unaltered but looked through with 3mm eye pupils . I apologise in advance for the rather inefficient way I may have presented this question , but PLEASE can someone clarify this for me ? Appreciative thanks in advance -- Kenny . ====================================================== Subject: Link to big Zeiss binocular restoration From: "Lucas, Gene" Here is a link from the Everglades Astronomical Society (Naples, Florida) web pages to a photo of a big Zeiss binocular restoration by Joe Lavigne of the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium in Fort Myers, Florida. Caption indicates they are a pair of 1930s Zeiss 4HF12 binoculars (photo is at bottom of page): http://gator.naples.net/clubs/eas/calusa_nature_center.htm After the meeting, Joe Lavigne took us behind the scenes to the planetarium workshop where he has finished restoring a pair of Zeiss 4HF12 binoculars (orig. construction 1930). They are made of cast metal and weigh over 100 lbs. Joe has worked on them for three months. ============================================================ ============================================================= Binocular List #274: 27 October 2003: Nikon binoculars =============================================================== Subject: Nikon From: Peter Abrahams I received an email from Hans Braakhuis, a member of the Nikon Historical Society, who is working on a presentation on the history of Nippon Kogaku, for the NHS meeting in Tokyo 23 February 2004. He has assembled the largest listing of Nikon binoculars that I've seen. He is intending to publish a brochure at that time, on a variety of Nikon products and the company history. Hans is hoping to expand his binocular list before publication, and agreed to permit me to send it out to the list, in hopes that we could add to it. If you know the model name, magnification & aperture, year of introduction or production, and any notes, for Nikon binoculars not listed below, please respond to me & I will organize the data, re-post it to this list, and send it to Hans. This can be for a single example or a range of models, and incomplete data on unusual models can be helpful as well. I believe that this type of work can be influential in opening Japanese sources to exchange of information. Thanks for assisting in this project, Peter Abrahams This text can be copied to a Word .doc or similar, and put in a font such as Courier; it then displays as a chart. I. Nippon Kogaku production list 1917 - 1948 |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |Product |year| |name |type | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1946|2x25.5 |Capella | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1925|3x12 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1945|3.5x25.5|Spica | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1921|4x |Mikron | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1945|4x | |Compact dach series | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars| |4x10 |Nikko |Field glasses | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|WWII|4x15 | | trench binoculars | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1921|6x |Mikron | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1921|6x15 |Atom | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1948|6x15 |Mikron |civilian | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1925|6x18 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1918|6x24 |Orion | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1945|6x24 |Orion |civilian | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1923|6x30 |Novar | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1949|6x30 |Tropical|civilian waterproof | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1932|6x40 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1923|7x50 |Novar | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1944|7x50 | |military | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1945|7x50 | |civilian | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1949|7x50 |Tropical|civilian waterproof | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1921|8x24 |Bright | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1922|8x26 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1945|8x26 |Orion | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1948|8x30 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1923|8x35 |Novar | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1923|10x50 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1929|10x70 |Nikko | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1930|10x70 | |Type I (65E°) | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1940|10x70 | |Type II (70E°) | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1917|15x75 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1931|15x75 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1923|15x80 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1943|15x80 |Nikko |Naval binoculars | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars| |18.8x150|Nikko |military | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|WWII|20x120 |Nikko |with pillar support | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1940|20x120 |Nikko |for mock battle simulators nr 2012 | | | | | |military | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars| |20x120 |Nikko |military | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1917|25x75 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1933|33x200 |Nikko |military | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1917|35x75 | | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1939|50x250 |Nikko |military | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1923|80x15 |Nikko |telescope binoculars | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1939|83x250 |Nikko |military | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1932|180x22.5|Nikko |telescope binoculars | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1932|180x30 |Nikko |telescope binoculars | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars| | | |Imperial Army NCO field binocular type| | | | | |'93 | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars| | |Nikko |Nikko Aviation Binoculars, Type-I for | | | | | |the air force | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars| | | |Periscope binocular and tripod for the| | | | | |artillery | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| |binoculars|1932| |Nova | | |----------+----+--------+--------+--------------------------------------| ========================================================== ============================================================== Binocular List #275: 05 November 2003 ================================================================ Subject: Binocular meetings in 2004 Steve Stayton is organizing a meeting of persons interested in the history of binoculars; to follow the very successful meeting in San Diego in Feb. 2003. We now have a date: March 20-21, Tucson, Arizona. Details to be announced ASAP. Tucson is one of the two major centers for optics in the US, and is probably the world-wide center for astronomical telescopes. This will be an excellent meeting. I am ready to start keeping a tally of those who will attend; you can let me know now or wait for the details. Costs will be kept to a minimum. There will also be a meeting in Germany, in autumn 2004. Some details will be available soon. --Peter ========================================================= Subject: Cyclops binocular, Zeiss 4HF12 binocular From: "Osborn Optical" I have seen a few different motor driven zoom monoculars of 1960's vintage that were also brought back by Viet Nam veterans. One, manufactured by Itabashi Optical Mfg. Co., Ltd., Japan, was made in a monocular and binocular version, both under the Sirius name. The binocular model is center focus. These also ran on 2 AA batteries. They were a 7.5x to 15x electric zoom with a 40mm objective. The exit pupil was 5.3mm at 7.5x and a F.O.V. of 6.25 degrees/336 ft. at 1000 yds at 7.5x. The body was a magnesium alloy. The height was 6 3/4" and the bino (model No. EPZ40) was 44 oz. The electric zoom assembly was a combination of brass and plastic gears. re: Zeiss 4HF12 binoculars. Having restored a couple of these wonderful instruments, I can tell you that they all show the same high level of craftsmanship. Parts are matched and individually fitted. The prism clusters are very adjustable, which is a blessing for the technician and a hateful curse to the amateur. The tolerances of the eyepiece focus assemblies makes them far smoother and steadier compared to newer designs, and the overall weight of the instrument make for very steady and enjoyable viewing. Regards to all, Earl ==================================================================== Subject: Zeiss 4HF12 binocular, etc. From: "Gene A. Lucas" RE: Big Zeiss binos restoration mentioned in List No. 273 -- I might point out that the text re: the big Zeiss binos in Fort Myers, Florida was quoted from the EAS web pages...not from me. I have not seen those binos, unfortunately. Perhaps someone on the list could comment about the Zeiss model no. and perhaps give some additional info (if known).... RE: Gordon Raynor's List No. 273 note on an article in the September/October 2003 "Home Shop Machinist", p. 24, concerning cutting disks on the lathe. The lathe fixture consists of two circular plates faced with rubber, clamping the material to be trimmed into a disk in between. One plate is held on the lathe spindle, the other pressed up tight with the tailstock ram. One must of course, proceed with caution, using light cuts! Cutting plastic disks will burr up (the plastic melts easily and sticks to the cutting edge) unless using fast turning speed (with increased caution!) and very sharp tools. I have seen other articles suggesting a thin disk could be held with "Super Glue" for temporary fixturing. The part is removed with a light tap after machining. Cutting Solar Filters -- The above-mentioned technique might be used to cut various size solar filter disks (perhaps for binocular objectives?) out of the newer gold- coated plastic welder's filters, which are a tough, dark plastic material. They are available up to approx. 4-1/2 inches square. I have one here at my desk, "Green Diamond" brand, P/N FS-5H, Shade no. 12 per ANSI-Z87.1-1989 (which is certainly adequate for solar observation), 4-1/2 by 5-1/4 inches (113 x 132 mm) square, about 1/8 inch (0.125 or 3.2 mm) thick, with an approx. 1/8 inch (3-4 mm) raised lip on the edges. Reflective gold coated one side (scratch resistant). Cost about $3. Machine tool tips: "Home Shop Machinist" and its sister/companion publication "Machinist's Workshop" are excellent sources of tips and information for non- professional hobbyists like me, with good sources of tools, etc. They are published semi-monthly, that is, the two titles alternating every-other-month. Not too much on optics or telescopes, but Glenn Wilson of Denver is an occasional contributor. Handy Measuring Tools: Harbor Freight Sales (web site: http://www.harborfreighttools.com or see your local store) runs a sale on a Chinese made 0 to 6 inch (zero to 150 mm) metric/english digital caliper every so often for around $20. Comes in a nice plastic case. Press a button and convert the reading from inches to millimeters! And Grizzly Tools (Web page: http://www.grizzly.com) had a cute little 4 inch dial caliper for sale for under $12 when I visited their store in Bellingham, WA this spring. (They also have a Left-Handed digital caliper model.) Gene Lucas (17250) Flying Rock Obsevatory in Fountain Hills, AZ >1930s Zeiss 4HF12 binoculars (photo is at bottom of page): > http://gator.naples.net/clubs/eas/calusa_nature_center.htm ==================================================================== Subject: Exit Pupil Questions From: "Rafael Chamón Cobos" To reply to Kenny's exit pupil questions I would recall the following, although I am not by no means an expert in Optics. The resolving power of an instruments is limited, on one hand, by the geometric faults (spherical aberration, coma, astigmatism, etc.), and on the other hand, by the diffraction fenomena that take place at the edges of the lens mounts and stops. The smaller the diameter of the stop or lens is, the greater is the diffraction. It can be proven that the resolving power of a telescope depends only on the diameter of the objective lens. The formula is: resolving power in secondes of arc at the object = 120 / Diameter of the objective in millimeters. (This teoretically, because the magnifying factor sets a limit to the resolving power, and this leads to the concept of "resolving magnifying factor", in which the physiological resolving power of the eye is involved. The resolving magnifying factor corresponds to the maximal magnifying factor one can expect from the telescope of a given objective diameter, and this is equal to the radius of the objective in mm. For example, if we consider a telescope of 70 mm, it is possible to achieve magnifying factors up to a limit of 35x without loosing definition. Over this value of magnifying factor one will see the image greater but blurred, this is, without details). Responses To the case (1): Perhaps the lost of qualiyt perceived by Kenny when he masks down the objective lenses of a binocular is due to the fact that in this case the diffraction faults will increase. By stopping down the objective lenses of a 7x 42 bino to 25 mm the resolution will be reduced to 60% (=25/42). By stopping down the objective lenses of a 10x 70 bino to 30 mm the resolution will be reduced to 43% (=30/70). To the case (2): In case of reducing the exit pupil by a stop I think the result would be similar as in the case (1) The exit pupil is an irreal stop, located between the eyepiecethe and the eye, that corresponds to the image of the objective after passing the telescope. Therefore, stopping down the exit pupil will be equivalent to stopping down the objective, as in case (1). To the case (3): In this case the eye pupil stops down the beam of rays comming into the eye. This case would also be similar to the case (1), because the exit pupil is now determinated by the eye itself, and this new exit pupile is translated back to the objective by the whole optical system. This has the effect of stopping down the objective, as in case (1). Kind regards Rafael ====================================================== Subject: Älter und historische Monokulare From: "u.zeun%cityweb.de" I am in progress of publishing a website (still only in German) on (handheld) monocular telescopes. My starting point was collecting monoculars for visually impaired persons, monoculars they can use for orientation and mobility. buying differnt models I also bought some old items through eBay. This items are lsited on my website as well. but information about the time dating, optical details etc. are rare or not available. (many pop-ups from the provider - sorry about that) Website concerning monoculars http://www.monokulare.0catch.com You will find the vintage and older versions of monoculars at http://www.monokulare.0catch.com/altemono.htm Regards Ulrich Zeun Dortmund, Germany ====================================================== ========================================================== Binocular List #276: 17 November 2003 ================================================= Subject: Steiner M22 retirement From: Michael Zhou I would like to add a piece of the puzzle to the "Steiner M-22G evolution" by Steve Harris. I speculate the main reason for retiring the Steiner M22 only few years after its introduction is due its poor handling of stray light. Under certain lighting condition, the stray light problem compromises the contrast so much that it renders the binocular practically useless. For example, if you were in a well-lighted base station and try to scan the outside for activities during the night, the stray light from the area you're standing will interfere to a point you would think there's white smoke around you. The temporary fix would be to have the lights in the base turned off, or cup your hands around the objectives, or move to an unlighted area. Besides this, the M22 also suffers from other quality control problems such as the two tubes giving FOV that are not leveled, variation in contrast, and variation in the color of the laser filter coating. Makrolon is poor choice for the hinge due to stress imposed on it during interpupilar adjustment. The soft detachable eyecups are great but they come off too easily. Steiner/Pioneer Research claimed that the M22 was manufactured as a use and throwaway item, and not meant to be serviced other than replacing the rubber armor or exterior plastic attachments. The few QC issues weren't showstoppers and were probably a side effect of belt tightening by the manufacturer. To have binocular that is doesn't give the best image or is missing the eye cups is not mission critical, but to have a pair that is nonfunctional under some lighting condition is. The M22 design was perhaps fresh out of the drawing board back in the 1980's, but what's surprising is how this flaw managed to make it to production. From the M22, Steiner derived a complete line of military/marine binoculars for the civilian market, I am curious if these decedents inherited this problem. Shortly after the Gulf War, the Steiner M22 was replace with the Fujinon M22, which addressed this stray light problem. In my opinion, the Fujinon M22 is not as comfortable as the Steiner M22 but all the shortcomings were addressed. The contrast of the Fujinon M22 is outstanding under any lighting condition. Michael Zhou =================================================== Subject: CD From: "OPTICKS" I have been compiling your binocular lists for almost a year and have them on a CD. If anyone would like a copy they are most welcome. I would mail it to them for the price of the CD and postage. Your lists as always provide a wonderful resource and look forward to each new list. Barry Barry L. Matthews (Opticks) Tel. (613) 829-5251 Fax (978) 477-2654 E-Mail barrymat@___ico.ca ================================================ Subject: Zeiss Dekaris From: jdamodels@___m John Anderson again. I just received a Zeiss Dekaris that you might want to know about. It is serial number 1414935. According to the tables from your website that places it in the range for 1927. The dilemma is that your Zeiss binocular table list production of the Dekaris as beginning in 1929. I know there are a number of people trying to get the serial number/year or production facts straightened out. If you know of any of these folks this might be useful to them. Thanks for all of your help. Regards, John Anderson ================================================= From: Kennyj2@___m Subject: Re - Exit pupil query I would like to express my thanks to Rafael and to Dick ( who e -mailed privately) for responding to my query. Whilst understanding the points Rafael describes I doubt whether Diffraction Limited theory even comes into play at such relatively small magnifications. I remain convinced that some other factor(s) is ( are ) at work in my examples and from reading as much as can be found on the subject have concluded that this is probably related to the fact that human eye and / or brain acts in far more complex ways than does any kind of lens or lens system. Thus when the human entry pupil is the limiting factor I do not believe it has EXACTLY the same effect in all cases as a simple exit -pupil from an optical system. Interestingly there are still MANY "experts" who insist that a larger objective will provide increased resolution and "reach" even in daylight with a magnification producing exit pupils larger than the "average" eye pupil dilation . One of those great little "debates" that I presume will continue for years to come ! Off topic - but worth a mention - a bino new on the market that is receiving some favourable reviews from owners of other unquestionably very good quality binoculars is the Orion Expanse 7 x 35 which offers an incredible 14 degree TFOV ! Regards to all --Kenny. ================================================================= Subject: Rugged Exposure 10x42 @___rom Big 5 From: rab I took this blue rubber armored, waterproof (so they say on the box) roof prism binocular to Gates Pass Lookout this evening between 6:30 and 7:15 PM. Star testing these on Vega and other objects, I continue my praise for these cheap binoculars that I purchased the other day, on sale, from Big 5 Sporting Goods. Daylight images are excellent, but night-time and star testing tells more. Image quality, ghost rejection, and parasite rejection are on a par with Nikon Venturers, however these do not have phase correcting coatings on the roofs. Transmission seems on the low side (the coatings are MgF), although the image doesn't appear to be unduly yellow, which would caused additional light loss (even the Nikons never appeared perfectly 'white' to me). Eyerelief is a bit shorter than the Nikons, but adequate for some eyeglass wearers, and I can see most of the field with my regular spectacles, and all of it with my special, miniature, compact spectacles. Fit and finish not up to Nikon standards, hard to tell how robust they are without dropping them, but these are remarkably good glasses and for peanuts. Regards, Dick. ========================================================== =========================================================== Binocular List #277: 24 November 2003 ======================================================== From: " Jack Kelly" Regarding John Anderson's Dekaris serial number, I have some Zeiss production records which indicate that they manufactured 2 examples of the Dekaris in the year ending September 1928, and 867 in the year ending September 1929. These same records indicate that the last serial number through September 1928 was 1442819. This would lead me to believe that John might be the owner of one of the very first production models of the Dekaris. On a different note, I just found an old book, "The Telescope" by Louis Bell, PhD, first edition dated 1922. You are most likely familiar with it but it does have some interesting information on binoculars and a nice photo of a Clark 4" binocular telescope. Regards, Jack > Zeiss Dekaris serial number 1414935. According to the tables from > your website that places it in the range for 1927. The dilemma is that your > Zeiss binocular table list production of the Dekaris as beginning in 1929. ============================================================ Subject: RE M22 retirement From: John Gruver One further add to the Steiner M22 debate. I was close friends with the product manager of Pioneer/Steiner during the purchasing of the M22. It was made according to DOD specs, which specified a laser protection element ( heavy filter at 623nm) They (DOD) were freaked out at the time, having just recently (1987-9) been lased many times by the Ruskies and Koreans at check points, on helicopters and such. Early laser- eliminating technology cut heavily into the light-gathering ability, reducing it from 97+% to below 93%. Even then it was called a dog, but thats what they wanted at the time. Should have been removable, like the dark sun filter add-ons of WWII, but was incorporated into the glass that I know. ======================================================== Subject: Orion 7x32 Expanse, others. From: "Pete Rasmussen" Just like the Bushnell Xtra-Wide series these babies use a mirror in replacement to one BaK-4 prism for each half of the system. Quite sad this and other companies won't declare that fact in application in their advertisment print but seems on par with much of what goes on currently. One other biggie example regards nomeclature for coatings where some will call there products "fully multicoated" when obviously are lesser so. Anyhow, the effective removal of one prism here seems to favorably allow for a noticeable reduction in chromatic and spherical error. A good thing. Interestingly there is an Olympus 8x25 WA (and other relabelled brands around I believe) with mirror substitution for prism design that seems plausible as being same as the Orion 8x25 (72°). That one newly listed along side the 7x32 Expanse. The Olympus product I examined showed to have poor field sharpness where image was crisp only on very center. Mixed to poor feelings abound for me with these hybrids. But, expectable due a lower power base, a Bushnell 5x25 Xtra-Wide proved a little better overall. My preferences definitely still hold favorable toward a fully prismatic EWA binocular similar to the older yet overall superb 7x35 Tasco No. 110. But performance enhanced due full multicoatings of course! Pete Rasmussen ============================================================== From: "William Cook" >>>Interestingly there are still MANY "experts" who insist that a larger >>>objective will provide increased resolution and "reach" even in daylight >>>with a magnification producing exit pupils larger than the "average" eye >>>pupil dilation.<<< After being in optics for a very long time, I would hate to become an expert at the expense of having my "expert" placed within quotation marks. Be that as it may, the preceding sentence should probably read: ". . . optical professionals recognize that, all things being equal, an increase in aperture will increase resolution to a point limited by diffraction, atmospheric distortions, or sales brochures from competing companies pedeling small telescopes. Finally, we must sadly report that an optical engineer from the University of Arizona died today of a heart attack while feverishly trying to find an optical industry definition for “reach.” ;-> Cheers, Bill ======================================================== Subject: Bushnell advertisement From: Peter Abrahams Some time ago, David Bushnell gave me a 78 record, circa 1950, that was a recording of a radio advertisement for binoculars, made by a disc jockey to show the effectiveness of radio advertising (and it did result in some sales). I finally found a friend with a sound card that can digitally record such things. He even cleaned it & reduced the noise level. It mentions the new booklet, 'How to Select Binoculars'; 'precision German engineering'; price $17.95; address, 'B, Sun Valley, Calif.' ....and the interesting comment, related to the Korean War: 'due to unsettled world conditions, binoculars may not be available to civilians very much longer....if conditions become as critical as they were in 1941, it may be five to ten years before binoculars become available again' I posted the file: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/Bushnell.ad.1meg.wma .....this is a one megabyte file, and if you click on the above link, it will open in your web browser. It often works better to go to the directory: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/ ......and find the Bushnell link, then right click on it to 'save as', then save it to your disc. Then, if you click on it, and if you're using a fairly recent version of windows, it should start playing in 'media player'. If you have a mac or an old or tempermental windows computer, this might or might not work. This is a 'wma' file, which is window's version of mp3, the more universal music file format. If anyone can convert the file to mp3, and hopefully reduce the file size to a minimum (with clear sound).....that would be appreciated. --Peter ============================================================== ============================================================== Binocular List #278: 01 December 2003 ======================================================================= There are two meetings planned in 2004 for binocular historians & collectors; I hope to meet many list members at these gatherings. Previous meetings have been very productive. 'Stay tuned' for more details. Tucson, Arizona March 20-21, 2004. Germany, September 2004. ======================================================================== Subject: Revisiting the M-22 From: "Steve Harris" The first large lots of official surplus M-22's that came out of Fort Polk, LA and Ft. Hood, TX DRMO auctions were in surprisingly good physical shape. The majority of damaged binoculars in these lots were usually ruled unserviceable due to some type of water intrusion into one of the body cavities. The intrusion point was always rather hard to locate and the body side with the moisture penetration could be tossed away and a matching good side could be cannibalized to replace it. Surprisingly, collimation issues were almost never a problem for these salvaged binoculars. I can only assume the Army at some point took the same approach, as the majority of surplus lots were generally filled with at least 10 to 20 percent body halves of varying condition. The binoculars that had structural cracks or had chunks/pieces of the black Bayer makrolon fiber-reinforced polycarbonate missing, exposed some rather concerning internal design issues. First and foremost, if there was a magnesium fluoride coating on the internal optics, it was very thin and of poor quality. A light "dusting" would be the most optimistic description. Several prisms were so poorly coated that I often wondered if there was even a coating present! The external objective and ocular lenses were unquestionably coated to a reasonable military standard. Body parts were held together, sealed from the elements, and internal lens settings were reinforced by a hardy silicon-based glue. Construction certainly was not impressive and I always wondered how they stayed together as well as they did. The external laser filters actually screwed onto the main body. A very small one-way pressure valve was present to atmosphere the space in between the laser filter and the objective. The screw-on laser filters were usually rather hard to remove due to liberal use of the silicon glue acting as a water-proofing measure. Once the laser filter was removed, a replacement neutral density filter (which Deutsche Optic sold at one time) could be screwed back on as a replacement. Protecting physical damage to the filter itself, was what was described by the folks at Optic Options as the "laser filter donut". This thick and hefty round rubber "donut" was the most frequently missing part, other than the obligatory missing eyecup/s. My most fond memory of the effects of the laser filter was the "pinkish" hue that was present when viewing through the binocular. At first glance it was a bit comical to see the world in such a "pink" state, but at dusk, low light performance was measurably affected. After extended periods of viewing, it clearly became an irritant for me and the majority of actual users that I spoke with. For all of the failings associated with the construction of the M-22, it had a strange ability to take "blunt" impacts. I can't tell you how many times I would throw a moisture-damaged body half against the flat, hard ground as aggressively as I could without external body damage, along with surviving internal optical damage. On the other hand, if there was any type of protruding object associated with the surface, the makrolon body would often puncture and splinter. The rubber armor did a very good job of protection, as long as it was not violated. Even when accidentally dropped on hard concrete, I rarely had a disaster. I certainly question whether modern alloy binoculars would have outperformed the M-22 in this respect. Over the years, I always asked active Army and Marine troops who used the binoculars their opinion. I don't think I ever received a positive response, only complaints about the binocular's weight and bulk or "shoot-me" filters. One Marine Force Recon scout/sniper team that I visited with told me that their biggest liability was having to "lug two sets of shoot-me binoculars around in a rucksack all the time." The team suggested to me that the best way to avoid being detected from the glint was a light misting of flat black paint over the filters. Another marine sniper told me he often "greased the filters down with a little face paint, to keep his spotter calm and making good calls!" The torture our precious military optics must go through in the field! The most bizarre variation of the M-22 was a Steiner sales volume award presentation binocular given to the Farris family who own SWFA Binocular sales. The binocular was encased with slightly off-white rubber armor for artic warfare and had neutral density filters in place of the laser filters. Given the nature of how the sticky M-22 green rubber would attract dirt, I can only imagine the light brown color they would have become after several weeks of use. The Steiner presentation case was probably the best home for such an un-stealthy binocular. May the M-22 rest in peace - or pieces! All Best Wishes, Steve Harris sapharris@___ink.net ==================================================================== Subject: Explaining Binocular "Reach" From: Kennyj2@___m To prevent possible further charges of causing death by dubious definition I will try to clarify what was intended by my use of the term " reach" in previous correspondence. Both the words "reach" and "experts" were deliberately placed in inverted commas to highlight the context in which the words were used , namely both being expressions chosen not by myself , but by the author of a very popular website specialising in reviews of optical equipment of a non -astro nature . I thought it prudent to withold the name of that website. To lesser mortals such as myself the term "expert" could indeed be applied to a range of persons varying from rightfully respected optical designers and repair persons such as contribute to this binocular group to anyone who actually gets paid for writing about binoculars and/ or telescopes . It is amongst the latter group that I have occasionally come across the expression"reach" with reference to the maximum terrestrial distance at which resolution of a given detailed object can be achieved through any given optical instrument . Of course conditions of visibility and human eye acuity play a much more important part in the overall picture , but in what I presume to be it's most commonly intended meaning the term"reach" would be a function of magnification rather than objective size. For example it might be observed that the time on a Church clock 6 miles away can be clearly read looking through a 10 x 40 binocular but not through a 8 x 40 and in such an example this would clearly be due to the extra magnification. What the author of the article I originally referred to and what other writers on the topic have agreed with is the implication that there can be situations that enable such positive identifications to be confirmed through say a 10 x 50 binocular that cannot be through say a 10 x 25 compact in the same conditions. Because this point seems to have attracted much interesting discussion in other places I just thought that it's mention might stimulate similar responses amongst a few people for whom I have nothing but the highest regard and respect . It is not intended as a "catch" question any more than it is an attempt to "slur" anyone I could classify as an "expert" , which in my case I rather hoped would include the vast majority of readers of Peter's regular binocular lists. "Reach" is probably no more truly belonging in optical designers' vocabulary than is the term "sharpness" -- my use of which really seemed to annoy another "expert" I recently corresponded with , but I genuinely considered it to be an accepted descriptive term as I have tried to explain it above. I hope this helps to clarify not only the situation , but my original question. Regards to all - Kenny . ================================================================== Subject: UBCC From: "Craig Buckingham" Can Peter or Bill or any of the other list members inform me if the "Universal Binocular Collimator" by Fujinon is a suitable device for the collimation of high spec binoculars like the Fujinon FMT-SX 7x50 & 16x70. We have a couple of them being used by businesses in Sydney and I just want to make sure that I am at least starting with someone that has the right equipment. Thanks in advance, Craig. ---------- The Fujinon collimator is very capable, if it is manned by a knowledgeable & patient operator. Back in list #57: 5/5/99, Cory Suddarth (now at a different email) described the Fujinon unit & its complications, as follows: Subject: collimator v. collimator From: Cory Suddarth I've got a quandary to post to the group. I have two collimators at my disposal,and while they display similar error levels on binoculars, the claimed error value is very much disputed. Here's the problem. The U.S. Navy collimator is expressed in ten (10) minute(s) of arc increments, six (6) units equal one (1) degree. This scale then reads six (6) degrees in four (4) quadrants, up, down, side-to-side, the zero point originates in the center. The Fujinon collimator [Universal Binocular Measuring Machine] uses a projected scale that goes through the bino and is displayed on a ground glass screen. Claimed error for these increments are one (1) minute of arc each. Here's where the fun begins. If I purposely tweak one (1) degree of vertical error (or step) in a pair of 7x50 Swift Seahawks using the Navy Mk V, then place it on the Fujinon collimator, the error should be off the screen of the Fujinon. Vertical error only goes to twenty (20) minutes ,therefore, sixty (60) minutes of arc, or one (1) degree error would not be on this scale, off the chart! Well, this is not the case. One (1) degree of step comes to the tenth place on the Fujinon scale. Question is, if these are indeed one (1) minute of arc, Why does an error of sixty (60) minutes show up as only ten (10) minutes of arc? Off by a factor of six (6)!! Here, let's try again. This time I will induce an error of only thirty (30) minutes of arc on the Mk V, 1/2 degree error. Now put this on the Fujinon collimator. Theoretically, this error is over the scale limits (by 10 minutes of arc) but should still show up on the screen. Here's where the target falls, it falls on the fifth place, five minutes of arc. how can this be??, again off by a magnitude of six (6). My analyses is that the scale on the Fujinon collimator is not expressed in minutes of arc, but tenths of a degree. This would explain the one degree error landing on the tenth place, and the 30 minutes of arc error showing up on the fifth place. Check points. Both machines have been checked for calibration, and so to verify, a binocular of a known angular value is placed on the Mk V. Within minutes of arc, the FOV matches what is expressed. So now let's put this on the Fujinon. Fujinon has a power scale. Now the bino's line up to within a few tenths of the power expressed on the glass. Both machines read true. If either machine is off, it's certainly not by a factor of six!! Does anyone have any experience expressly with these two machines?? I use these both daily, and as long as I think tenths of a degree error on the Fuji, not minutes of arc, we get along fine. Cory Suddarth ================================= Subject: Maroctit From: John Chapter I just picked up an old E.Leitz 8x60 binocular is fair condition. It is the Maroctit model with serial no. 535792. They look like 1950's vintage to me but I can't find any info on them and anything you could email me would be appreciated. Also, the Vulcanite is all gone and I am probably going to paint them, with crinkle paint, as recovering them with something, looks like a tough job. Thanks for your help, John Chapter, Lakewood, CO ------------ In the file at: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/leitzbin.txt Is the only information I have on this model. I owned a very clean example, it gave very sharp images but the field was very narrow & I sold it. 8 x 60 Maroctit, 6 deg field; 1932 -1962, $192 in 1954; $250 in 1961 CF. 1250 gm. ============================== Subject: unsatisfied customer From: Arthur Tenenholtz I think that I may have to join William Cook in lamenting the service offered by certain binocular manufacturers. I recently acquired an expensive Japanese binocular and found the accessories deficient. Both rain guard loops were split resulting in the temporary loss of the rain guard. The case has no strap and unlike the cases for Zeiss and Leica, the binocular's strap is not threaded through slits in the case. When I remove the binocular from the case, I am at a loss at what to do with the case: put it between my knees or on the ground! I suppose that it is not meant to be a carrying case but only a storage case. When I wrote to Nikon USA, I was told that no one else ever complained and that they would not provide me with any replacement, although my thoughts would be forwarded to product development. Since I like the glass, I felt obliged to buy a Zeiss rain guard and I use a cheap padded vinyl case which has both a detachable shoulder strap and a belt loop. I am sure that I was dealing with one of the firms on William Cook's short list. Arthur Tenenholtz ========================================================= ========================================================= Binocular List #279: 08 December 2003 ======================================================== Subject: BHS Meeting March 2004 From: "Steve Stayton" Binocular History Society Meeting Tucson Arizona USA March 20 and 21, 2004 There will be a two day meeting of binocular enthusiasts next March in Tucson. We will have some short presentations by interested members, table space for displays, and a field trip. The tentative agenda is as follows: Friday PM: Registration and informal social time Saturday AM: Registration Saturday AM: Presentations and displays Saturday PM: Field trip to University of Arizona Mirror Lab Saturday Evening: Buffet dinner Sunday: Presentations and swap meet Sunday PM: adjourn The meetings will be held at the Viscount Suite Hotel in Tucson. The convention room rate is $98 plus tax for single or double occupancy. The rooms are suites and a full breakfast is included in the convention rate. Reservation phone number is: 1-800-527- 9666 or 520-745-6500. The hotel is quite nice with a good central location in Tucson. Our convention rate is guaranteed until February 19. Be sure to ask for the Binocular History Society rate. The meeting date is in peak winter tourist season for Tucson so be sure to get your reservations placed promptly if you plan to attend. Reservations made after February 19 will be subject to a higher rate. There will be a small registration fee for attendees to help cover the meeting costs, estimated at between $20 and $40 depending on how many people sign up. We will have a tour of the University of Arizona Steward Observatory Mirror Lab on Saturday afternoon. This is a most fascinating tour for anyone with an interest in optics. See: http://medusa.as.arizona.edu/mlab/mlab.html The Lab is currently fabricating two 8 meter diameter mirrors for the Large Binocular Telescope to be installed on Mt. Graham here in Arizona (without a doubt it will be the largest "binocular" for a long time when completed). Peter Abrahams will schedule presentations. If you would like to do a presentation please contact him at: telscope@___.com If you do plan to attend or have questions please contact Steve Stayton at: sstayton@___ink.net Looking forward to seeing many of you in Tucson next year. Steve -------------- We already have seven persons interested in presenting on some aspect of the history of binoculars. The paper sessions can be expanded to a limited degree, but we are planning on allowing much time for visiting and discussion. If you are interested in sharing your knowledge, let me know before too much time passes. Tucson is the center for optics and astronomy in the U.S., and there is much to do: touring Kitt Peak is a highlight (Mt. Graham is closed in the winter). We hope you can join us. --Peter ============================================================== Subject: New Zeiss Historica Articles Congratulations to Jack Kelly for writing a very good overview of the early binoculars produced by Zeiss, with excellent photographs. And to Nick Grossman for a text on the Zeiss affiliate Nedinsco, Venlo. These are both found in the new Zeiss Historica, a biannual periodical that has had some very useful coverage of binoculars. You can subscribe at: http://www.zeisshistorica.org/ Kelly, Jack. Zeiss binoculars - The early years. Zeiss Historica 25:2 (Fall 2003) 2- 8. Grossman, Nicholas. Carl Zeiss in the Netherlands. Zeiss Historica 25:2 (Fall 2003) 9-10. =============================================================== Subject: Marox 8x32 From: guus kasteel Since a few weeks I have added to my collection an almost as new Moeller, Wedel Marox 8x32, serial number 3111030, with an original pristine leather box with it. I do not understand the function of the plastic knob on top of the central hinge; is it just a cover for the tightening screw underneath or has it some kind of purpose to it. It comes off very easily. If hardcopies of a Marox catalogue would be available, I will of course reimburse any cost for mail and copying! best regards Guus ===================================================================== Reprints of old manuals are always deserving of a space in this list, and D.O. has a couple of new ones. The Gregory book is also worthwhile: http://www.deutscheoptik.com/ Handbook of Overhaul Instructions with Parts Catalogue, 7x50 Binocular Mark 41 Bausch & Lomb Optical Co. 30 pages, fascinating reprint of this restricted wartime document showing technical details of the legendary wide-angle Mk 41, includes chapters on description, operation, service, testing, tools, and parts, lots of diagrams and procedures, much applicable to a variety of different glasses, Price:$ 20.00 Opticalman Training Course, Bureau of Naval Personnel, 649 pages, re-print of compete 1966 manual for Navy OM (Opticalman) rating, incredibly comprehensive course covers basic theory and step-by-step repair/maintenance for all types of optical instruments Price:$ 60.00 Notes on Binoculars and Their Use, R.C. Gregory, 2003, Amwell Books (U.K.), 118 pages, an interesting little book by this long-time British collector, offers detailed history, opinions and data on many collectible models, lots of b/w photos for flea market ID, also includes most helpful market value and info on various hard-to-find makers, spiral bound. Price:$ 40.00 ============================================================================ Subject: Replies From: "William Cook" To Kenny, Craig, Arthur et. al.: Kenny: In no way did I intend to offend you over the “expert” matter. I didn’t know where the comment came from. I just wanted to clarify, knowing that posts on the list are taken, by some, as seriously as a heart attack. I agree with your friend that “sharpness” is not a clinical term. HOWEVER, while it does refer to degrees (levels) of resolution, it is a term that has gained universal acceptance. As such, it represents a type and level of performance that we can all understand. And unless one is writing for his or her own amusement, communication should be the driving force. In an 1887 letter to W. D. Howells, Mark Twain wrote: “High and fine literature is wine, and mine is only water; but everybody likes water.” I try to convince myself of the value of that sentiment each time I go off on one of my pontifications—like now, for example. Fortunately, however, I usually just ignore the still small voice and have my fun anyway. Craig wrote: >>>Can Peter or Bill or any of the other list members inform me if the >>>"Universal Binocular Collimator" by Fujinon is a suitable device for the >>>collimation of high spec binoculars like the Fujinon FMT-SX 7x50 & >>>16x70.<<< The Fujinon U.B.M.M. (Universal Binocular Measuring Machine III) is a fantastic device that will work well with almost all small binos. Unfortunately, the Fujinon 10x70’s and 16x70’s are an inch too long to fit on the collimator’s glass faceplate. This probably goes a long way in explaining why so many large binoculars arrive at the retailers out of collimation. This is not true of the Fujonon’s or Nikons, but rather the lesser models that use the objective, three-point collimation method. Arthur wrote: >>>I am sure that I was dealing with one of the firms on William Cook's >>>short list.<<< Please be careful on assuming who is on my “short list.” I don’t want to have to get into a peeing match with some skunk. Beyond a doubt, I have had SOME disagreements with SOME individuals in SOME sections of Nikon—and several others for that matter. However, I would like to point out that my # 1 small astronomy bino is a Nikon Prostar (Yes, I do tout the Fujinon FMT-SX series, but I got a great deal on the Nikon), and my #1 birding binocular is a Nikon 8x32 Superior E (on which the deal was less than great, but it is a fantastic bino, so I paid the price.). Just some thoughts. Kindest Regards, Bill ============================================================== Subject: Fujinon Universal Binocular machine From: binofixer@___m As for the Fujinon Universal Binocular machine, I liked having one at my disposal (when employed at Orion). It is espectially fast when collimating todays generic prism-side- push-screw style prevelant on today's (China) market. It does have it's frustration levels when trying to collimate an objective essentric (Fujinon) style binocular. If the lens and rings are easily turned, the lens drops down on the support glass because of gravity and lens weight (lenses are normally recessed, retainer rings and spacers) by a distance out of focus (refocus) range. Also, in my case, the largest glass I could stuff into the machine was a 70mm. Anything larger would not fit. As for the discrepancy in Increments, I can only assume that the poorly translated manual that came with the machine was in error. Discrepancy or not, I'd love to have one again. Cory Suddarth Suddarth Optical Repair ============================================================ Subject: James C. Wyant web pages -- interactive stereo plots of Zernike functions, Penta Prism, etc. From: "Lucas, Gene" (This note is about binocular or "stereo" vision, and a little bit about optical testing.) Here is an extremely fascinating set of web pages by Dr. James C. Wyant at the U. of Arizona Optical Sciences Center in Tucson. I initially ran across Dr. Wyant's pages while looking for material on optical testing. He has several good "short courses" (PDF files) on interferometric testing methods on these pages (for the technically inclined). In addition, he offers a series of pages with color stereographic plots of various Zernike functions (math functions useful in evaluating optics, such as Airy disk patterns) and other math functions. These can be adjusted to give stereo pairs (for those who can fuse the images), and some of the patterns can even be set into motion!! http://www.optics.arizona.edu/jcwyant/prettygraphics/list_of_pretty_graphics.htm Here is an interactive "stereo" plot of a Penta Prism. Place your cursor on the image and you can drag it to various orientations to demonstrate how the prism inverts the image. http://www.optics.arizona.edu/jcwyant/prettygraphics/pentaprism/PentaPrism.htm Enjoy!! Gene Lucas (17250) ====================================================================== Subject: Gyro-stabilized binocular operating instruction From: Michael Zhou I have a question reguarding the operation of gyro-stabilized binculars such as the Fujinon Stabiscope. If you know someone who is well qualified to answer this, please foward. The question is "Is it detrimental to handle the binocular when the caging switch is set to on?" For example, if three people shares one gyro-stabilized binoc, is it necessary to have each person turn the caging button off before he transfer it to the person next to him. I guess my question can also be phrase as "Is abrupt panning detrimental to a gyro- stabilized binocular?" Thanks, Mike =============================================================== ================================================================== Binocular List #280: 14 December 2003 =========================================================== Subject: Meeting in Tucson March 20-21 Although we're getting a good deal on the hotel, hundred dollar nights do add up. I am willing to coordinate room sharing, off list. If you want to split a room, email me & I'll put you in contact with others who also want to split a room. ------------ We've been receiving some very good proposals for papers at this meeting. Some of these good proposals are not quite about the subject matter that we are addressing, so I will be a little more specific. We are meeting to discuss the development of binoculars - the history of their technical aspects, their use in historic events, their place in the military & society of the past, the history of factories, equipment, & collimators, and related topics. Even these papers would need to stick to the subject of binoculars, and not for example be a history of some war campaign with notes about binocular use. There are related (& interesting) topics that are too far afield: the use of binoculars in birding and astronomy, theory of visual resolution in binoculars, recollections of observations made using binoculars. There are topics that are a tough judgement call: Instructions on collimating binoculars.....here I'd say it depends on how full the sessions are and the precise subject of the talk (how to use a collimator that no one owns, or how to collimate an odd model - might not work). ------------ In addition to meeting friends, swapping binoculars, and learning about history, these meetings can be useful in a larger sense. Certainly the people who attended earlier meetings in L.A., Portland, and San Diego, will agree that some momentum towards a larger goal has been achieved. There are people who can do a lot for us, such as museum curators, military archivists, and professional historians. A meeting such as this can tell them of the level of interest & commitment that we share. Sometimes when individuals approach these institutions, they do not receive a useful response, and perhaps an organization can help with this. There has been some interest in papers on Bausch & Lomb. If we get several papers on B & L, we will group them together, encourage displays on B & L, and contact the B & L archives in Rochester to let them know the level of interest in their early products. Likewise, there might be papers on the U.S. Navy Opticalman rate, now deleted by the Navy, but surviving in places such as the 'OM-IM Association': http://omim.pair.com/ If we can persuade some of these people that we would like to help document & record their work, equipment, & schools; that would be a very useful product of a meeting such as the Tucson event. If you are interested in a paper or a display on B & L or the OM rate, please contact me. And don't forget the meeting in Germany in late September; details to follow soon. --Peter ======================================================= Subjekt: Marox 8x32 From: l.helling@___ne.de (Lothar Helling) The plastic knob on top of the central hinge works very well as a stay at the forehead. The binocular than is more stable. I don´t know if this is the original funktion. The dealer I bought my Marox said so. However - it works. Best regards, Lothar --------------- Subject: Moeller Wedel Marox From: "Frederick Schwartzman" Dear Guus: I have the same Marox and I too have wondered about the function of that center knob. I note that the knob turns up and down but nothing happens. It does not tighten or lock the interpupillary setting and has nothing to do with focus. The only thing I could think of was that it might be a rest or brace against the bridge between the eyes and the raising and lowering function would accommodate different facial configurations. However, I cannot really believe that that was the function. Please let me know if you receive any additional information on the subject. Regards, Fred ===================================================== Subject: Exit Pupil Diameter and Sharpness From: "Tim Stevens" In Binocular List #273, Kenny started a dialog on the subject of the relationship between exit pupil diameter and "sharpness". In #275 and #277, Rafael and William Cook responded, and in #278 Kenny replied. All this discussion related to the relationship between exit pupil and sharpness stimulated me to study two texts (the Handbook of Optics and Smith's Modern Optical Engineering) to see what I could figure out about this subject. I concluded that if the optics are perfect, the exit pupil needs to be 4mm and that if the optics are corrected to the Rayleigh Quarter Wave Limit, then the exit pupil needs to be 5mm. There is just not enough space available here to explain how I arrived at these numbers and (just as important) what assumptions I used to arrive at these numbers. However, if you e-mail me at stevptm@___ink.net, I will be happy to e-mail you my detailed analysis (1.4 MB due to embedded graphics). If you want a hard copy, then e- mail me your mail address and I will mail you a hard copy of my analysis. Tim Stevens "binonut" ============================================================= Subject: Fuji UBMM, collimators From: gordiray@___t Why don't you make one, following Hanna in ATM books.? After a tree grew, I lost my infinity target for an otherwise Navy style setup. I have sketched over a dozen setups using mirrors, but have not yet built one. Tilted spherical mirrors give good enough images for projection systems. I saw one in Hinkle's (OMC ret. ) basement in Pasadena. He used it on "hundreds" of Bushnells in 1950's or '60's subcontract work. He got tired of the Navy collimators when at the U.S. shipyard in Boston. Do not know if he ever used the Mk. 13. which has limited aperture anyway. --Gordon Rayner ====================================================== Subject: M-22 & etc. From: gordiray@___t What about the Kamakura Koki "Fujinon" M-22? The M-19 was/is a bad thing for the Army. At the SPIE convention, I spoke with Paul Yoder, who was involved with this thing along with Shenker, Tronnier ( same as WW II 25 x 105 Schneider Goettingen ), at Frankford Arsenal. Are there modern adhesive engineering methods which could have saved the M-19? Or did Bell and Howell and /or Elcan have flawed curing times or???? So now, we are faced with the throwaway concept , because of the Army/USMC bad experiences with the M-19 , and the Katsuma types with the brittle gray glue which has no place in a military binocular(unless you want to sell more later, as did Tasco ) Of course Swift,Baker, etc were also selling these to the marine market for many years. I have about 50 of the Katsuma-Tasco from Camp Pendleton, all with prism damage after the brittle gray glue cracked, allowing motion in the sloppy prism- to- seat fits. I always reinforce these and all of even the top of line Fujinon (Light, Kenko, etc)with 3M5200 fast cure or one of the Simson -ATO Findly glue-sealants, which are tough and resilient. There are similar types available with UV cure, as the manufacturers know. But they want to sell more later. Why don't we go to the next Shot Show or one of the Army shows and educate them, before the govt starts buying Chinese junk that is out of collimation right out of the box. (CF on marine binoc?????) ? Show WWII types too. The Shot Show and NAB are simultaneous, at least approximately, in Las Vegas in mid-February. Most of the importers are there, sometimes Chinese factory reps. Some of the collectors should cover the WW II markings and just show some of the reps what good stuff is, (preferably without increasing pressure on existing supplies). --Gordon Rayner =============================================================== Subject: Fuji UBMM From: Binofixer@___m I have a 6" f/12 mirror that isn't polished yet, a Japanese 20x120 (submarine type) that I'm converting to aluminum and eliminating the 3/4" thick steel casing, that isn't finished yet, a Boston drive with DC motor to upgrade my lens grinding and polishing system, that isn't done yet. So for now instead of adding another project to my list of things not done yet, I'll poke along with my Mark-V. Fast, no. But with a ten inch aperture, I have yet to find a glass too big to plop in front of it. Cory Suddarth Optical Repair ============================================================= The forums on the 'Binoculars of the Armed Forces' web site are getting more active: http://www.oemspace.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl ------------------- There have been some interesting posts on Deutsche Optik's bulletin board: http://www.deutscheoptik.com/forums.php Re: Zeiss radioactive EDF Posted by Holger Merlitz on 11/27/03 The EDF came in 2 versions: The EDF 7x40 oB ("ohne Beleuchtung" = no illumination) and the standard 7x40 with tritium generated light. The illuminator is a small hollow tube with a tin-sulfide coating on the inner wall. The tube is filled with tritium, the beta decay releases electrons that excite the tin-sulfide layer and produce light. The EDF with illumination has a lever next to the right hand side ocular, and there is this "sticker" which is the well known black-yellow symbol for radioactivity.As long as the tritium remains contained inside the binocular, there is no harm. If the tube is damaged, the tritium is released and could potentially be inhaled, but the amount is less enough and I won't worry about that. Since the half-life time is only about 12 years, and those EDFs were produced 20 years back, the glow has become a little dim by now. I can see it only in the night, when the eyes are well adapted to low light. Best regards, Holger Re: Zeiss radioactive EDF Posted by Holger Merlitz on 11/28/03 The EDF was in fact available in both versions, from the very beginning. There were original NVA manuals for both models. But it was designed so that that adding or removing the illumination could be easily done. In fact, a civilian version was also issued, without tritium, reticle and IR detector, but they are rare nowadays; probably they were too expensive for most peoble. As you have mentioned, the tritium was removed after unification, because it did not adhere to West-German environment-laws. So whatever EDF is issued today from the Bundeswehr-Depot, is without tritium. Best regards, Holger ----------------- Japanese binocular identification Posted by Edward on 12/10/03 I have a pair of Japanese binoculars with the symbol of the Kokura Arsenal (four cannonballs). Also marked 6X and no.481. Did Japanese arsenals also produce binoculars? =============================================================== =============================================================== Binocular List #281: 27 December 2003 ===================================================================== It has been quiet lately, but I heard from Hans Braakhuis , who is continuing to expand his listing of Nippon Kogaku binoculars - please contact him if you can help; I'm not sure anyone from the list has added to his work (which will be freely available when completed). Also, the first known example of the Univex plastic body prototype binocular from WWII was sold recently. Plans are proceeding for meetings in Tucson and Germany in 2004. I hope to meet many list members at these. I will be in Atlanta, Georgia Jan. 3-8; if there are list members there, perhaps we can meet. I will send out another list before I leave (if I get any email). 2003 has been a very productive year for our subject, and I expect 2004 will be even better. Please keep working on those lists, papers, articles, books, collections, web sites, etc. - it is a lot more interesting to collect & study something when there is a body of knowledge for background. --Peter ===================================================================== Subject: P-61 binocular From: fantao@___t Bonnie at Caltech was kind enough to make the drawings Russell Porter made of the P-61 night binocular available on the web: http://archives.caltech.edu/photoNet.html Search for "RWP4.2" and you should get the two drawings. I believe the first shows the binocular in both the active and stowed positions (swung to the side). Binocular list readers, please observe the usage rules (only for personal, noncommercial use, remember to include credit line to Caltech Archives), we do not want to abuse the generous service they provide. I hope to dig up more images for my presentation at the Tucson meeting. Regards, Fan ======================================================================== Subject: Symbols on Japanese binoculars From: gordiray@___t I have and had some 15 x 105/60 deg inclined wtih the chrysanthemum symbol, and was told that that was Toyokawa Navy Arsenal, which after the war became Kowa, or part of Kowa, now Kowa Optimed in Torrance. There are dozens of Kowa 20 x 120 at Tokyo Tower, near the sword museum, same as the Israeli offerings in the DO catalog. Another 15 x 105/ 60 deg inclined I owned but traded was labled with a Star of David. That was the symbol of Enomoto Kogaku, which became part of Fuji Photo Optical-Fuji Meibo-Fujinon. --Gordon Rayner ========================================================================= Subject: Reproduction head cushions From: gordiray@___t (from List 273: >superior copies of the 25 x 100 cushion for which I made a mold ) Yes, I still have the mold I made 30 years ago, and many sets of the aluminum supports I made to fit the 25 x 100 cushion copies to the Busch 10 x 80 with 45 deg. inclination. I may have one or two extra cushions, but it is time for a new production run: buy the liquid polymers, set up, and run off 50pieces or thereabout. If others are interested, that would increase my motivation. Environmental and industrial safety requirements have changed the availablity of some of the materials I formerly used, I believe. Gordon Rayner 619-297-0797 California time ======================================================================== Subject: various news from the internet Holger Merlitz review.....three military glasses with specification 8x30. These are the Zeiss Dienstglas, the Hensoldt DF and the Steiner Fero-D 12. http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/zeiss8x30.html ---------- A very nice looking, unfinished 12 inch binocular Newtonian telescope from England: http://www.astronomycentre.org.uk/Projects/Binoculars/binocs01/Page.htm ---------- Leica Ultravid BR 7x42 ($1200 discounted), BL 8x42, 10x42 leather covered lightweight 25oz.; BR 8x50, 10x50, 12x50 http://www.ultravid.co.uk/ Russian Leica site: http://www.leica-russia.ru/binoculars.htm 7x42, 8 degree field 8x42, 7.4 degree field 8x50, 6.6 degree field magnesium body. improved optical and mechanical configuration markedly reduces stray light. Leica's High Lux Sytem (HLS) - a special mirror coating enhancing the prism system that is applied utilizing an advanced Physical Vapor Deposition process generated by an Ion Beam and particle accelerator. Forty-three separate coatings are applied in a thickness as little as 40 nanometers. These so called lamba/2 coatings, which transfer 99.5% of the light over the mirrors, not only generate additional brightness, but also allow for optimization for only one wavelength of light. stray light elimination with a new mechanical and optical design improves contrast and total light transmission. ==================================================================== ==================================================================== Binocular List #282: 11 January 2004 ===================================== We've received quite a few interesting communications since the last list, 2 weeks ago. I was away for half a week & returned to a massive ice storm that really stalled 'real life' in Portland, Oregon. Thanks for all the contributions, and we will have more frequent lists if this continues. Plans for the meeting in German this September are now being drafted, and will be issued very soon. The Tucson meeting March 20-21 is progressing nicely. We have received some excellent proposals for presentations. I am limiting the topics for discussion to historical subjects; some proposals were very good but involved technical optics or were not historical in nature. I welcome input on this censorship procedure; my feeling is that the audience very much wishes to limit their 'sit & listen' time to papers on historical binoculars; and would prefer spending the rest of the time visiting & sharing, rather than listening to papers on testing, coatings, design, glass, etc. I am still connecting persons who wish to split a hotel room during this meeting. ------------- An interesting web page in German, perhaps someone fluent in German could tell us about it: http://www.akoehler.de/ --Peter ====================================== Subject: Re: Fujinon M-22 From: Steve Harris >it is mentioned the Fujinon M-22 with laser filters are the successor of the Steiner M22G. >I have a couple of questions concerning the Fujinon M-22 7x50. >I very recently bought a, in my opinion, brand new Fujinon 7x50 set with the greenish filters and range grid. >1) Is this example the current issue to the US Army? >2) In your article these binocs are originally based on the Fujinon Nautilus. My set shows clearly Fujinon and also Kama-Tech. Is that normal? Are those converted Nautilus'? >3) Any idea which year they were produced. >4) If these binocs are indeed presently used by the Army how come they are for sale in this almost new condition? >5) Are there Steiners M-22 for sale with the military gear as described in your article? 1) Yes, this is the KamaTech variation of the M-22. There is a small 7X28 produced by Pioneer/Steiner that is also current issue and has become a favorite among the troops because of size and weight. Another binocular which the US Army is testing is a Leica Geovid 7X42 that can transmit messages via short encrypted bursts of laser light. There is also a classified binocular being produced by ELCAN in Midland, Ontario, Canada. 2) I make the assumption that you are correct. When Kama-Tech was operating at full production outside of San Diego, the factory received "sub-assembled" (to what degree is unknown) Fujinon 7X50 binoculars. The filters were then installed, as well as the reticule. There may have been additional modifications to the objective coating. 3) My best guess is in the mid to late 1990's. This was the first time that US troops showed me a pair. I started to really see them in quantity in about 1999. 4) Good question. I am starting to see these on a regular basis on e-Bay, as well as the old Steiner M-22 in brand new condition. I have a feeling from talking to the troops that the 7X28 is strongly preferred because of size and weight. Night vision is not an issue, since night vision googles are so plentiful now across a broad range of units. Hence the 4mm exit pupil of the 7X28 is fine for daytime observation and the troops move to NVG's at dark. 5) Not that I know of. Another possibility is that these binoculars were/are sold to other NATO countries. I have no confirmation of this. My last thought on why the original M-22 disappeared so quickly was that the "laser threat spectrum" changed and the older Steiner M-22 filters did a poor job of handling multiple-band threats. Since it had weight and durability issues as well, the Army decided to move on to the KamaTech. Are the KamaTech binos handling the the current multi-band threat being posed by the new Chinese NORINCO laser eye disturbers? That is a big question. The new 7X28 has filters as well. Are they designed to protect against a much more intense and diverse multi-band threat? In the end, I can only conclude that eventually the binocular will be entirely removed from the battlefield, as multi-band/power laser threats increase in complexity. Replacing a fuse or diode is much easier than replacing a soldier's eyes! This would pose a good discussion issue for the readers of the Binocular-list. All Best Wishes, Steve Harris ---------------------------- From: Steve Harris Subject: Re: Fujinon M-22 To: Jan-Bert Bongaarts The PDF file on the M-24 "Apache" 7X28 product brochure is produced by Litton in Garland, TX which is located only several miles from my office. I am reasonably sure that Litton manufacturers the laser filters, reticule, and possibly an additional coating for the objective. The Pioneer binoculars are brought in from Japan and they install the filter and reticule in the bino. I can only assume that since the Army went to Litton for filter sourcing, the filter is reasonably robust against mutiband and multipower threats. Then again, as technology continues to improve, even these countermeasures will become more and more ineffective. The Chinese Norinco ZM-87 is now in the hands of at least 50 countries as well as rogue terrorists and poses a threat to every soldier/pilot that does not have protective filers in use 100 percent of the time. For more on this device, see the above Jane's summary dated in 2000. Advanced variations of this device now exist which are much more dangerous. For more on the Kill Flash filters see Tenebraex's site at http://www.camouflage.com/mil_intro.html. The "Civilian" version of the M-24's has been available for many years. Slap "Apache 7X28 binoculars" into Google and you will find many hits. The examples that I have seen do not include the laser filter, but I have seen a variation at Brigade Quartermasters that contained a reticule. I have also seen these binoculars at local gun shows that were obviously stolen Army examples with filters in tack. I have also seen official M-24's with filters on ebay.com and ebay.de. Keep an eye open as soldiers from one country will trade things with soldiers of another country. In 1991, I understand that M-22's were traded for British and French sleeping cots! Steve ================================================================= Subject: Moeller Wedel Marox From: guus kasteel This is the collected response on my question on the Moeller - Wedel Marox 8 x 32 from a a few weeks ago: A few people reacted directly to my question on the "list" and all confirmed the idea about the function of the knob on top of the central hinge as being a rest or brace against the bridge between the eyes. Unfortunately, the response of the company which is still active in the optics area, was a bit disappointing. Their answer was as follows: "Dear Dr. Duchateau, Thank you very much for contacting us via our homepage. The binocular you mentioned was probably manufactured in the 50-ties. Unfortunately we do not have any information about this binocular, as Möller-Wedel discontinue the production in the 50-ties. Regarding the prism that you mentioned in your information: we are not sure but we know that MÖLLER patented one prism for binoculars that was different from a normal Porro prism. Using this prism the light transmission was improved. Sorry that we do not have more information. We wish you a nice Merry Christmas and a good New Year 2004, With best regards MÖLLER-WEDEL OPTICAL GmbH" (end quote). So, it looks like that the function is now known, but I still would be interested in a copy (hard copy or pdf) from the original documentation on the Marox. best regards Guus ============================================================= Subject: Nikon From: Hans Braakhuis I think that it is easier for reseach that persons who like to help that they have the draft version of the Nippon Kogaku products list 1909 - 1949 (binoculars and telescopes) (including Fuji Brothers). On this moment I don't have a webside now for download. But I can send it to every body who is interested. If you like to publish the draft version of the Excel file I send you some days ago, please do it. --Hans ---------------- This list of 75 Nippon Kogaku binoculars & telescopes, in Excel format, is posted to: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/Nikon.Braakhuis.xls It would be very helpful if anyone with old NK catalogs or instruments could add unlisted models to Hans' list. thanks, Peter =============================================================== Fan Tao recently purchased the only known example of the Univex 6 x 42 plastic body binocular from WWII. http://fantao.home.att.net/pl6x42.htm ----------------------------- From: Fan Tao Subject: Re: Univex I got the 6x42 plastic binocular in good condition. I asked the seller where it came from and all he could tell me was that it was from an estate sale in the Kansas City area. I opened it up but did not totally disassemble it. All indications are that it matches the descriptions given in the "Modern Plastics" article (October 1944) and Cynthia Repinski's "The Univex Story". The body is a brown bakelite material and in excellent condition except for some chips and scrapes in the eyepiece cups (which are black bakelite). There are no markings that I could find except for GE (General Electric) logos on the inside of the body. The optics are also in good shape although the prisms and objectives do not appear to be coated (the eyepiece lenses are). The IPD measures 65mm on this sample. I wonder if they ever produced the 62mm and 68mm versions. It does look kind of like it is possible to mount the prisms in different orientations but I will have to take a closer look (I haven't tried to remove the prisms yet). I hope someone can do a talk on the plastic 6x42 for the meeting in Tucson. I am already busy with the P-61 binocular presentation and I'm sure one of you is more qualified. Regards, Fan --------------------- From: "Steve Stayton" Subject: RE: Univex Fan, is it possible that the porro prism cluster is arranged to go in three different positions in the objective body to accommodate the three different IPD values with the same prism cluster? This could be accomplished by rotating the prism cluster around the objective lens axis (opposite rotation for right side vs. left side). This would allow for a common front housing and common prism clusters with the IPD value set only by the top (eyepiece) end housing design and the rotation position of the prism cluster in the front housing. Just a theory on my part, maybe you can tell by looking at the prism plate design details. Can't tell in the pictures. Of course, the IPD variation could also be accomplished by having different porro cluster sets with different arrangement of the prisms on the prism plate. And a special thanks is in order to Cynthia Repinski for researching and writing the Univex history so that we know what this unusual binocular is! Steve Stayton ========================================================= From: gordiray@___t Subject: Re: reproduction head cushions I made one version such that the cushion can be flexed inward or outward relative to the temple of the head. I never attempted to make the hard rubber pieces which touch the cheeks in the original setup. The cushions are much more comfortable than those which were used on the Busch 10 x 80 or on the various U. S. Navy 20 x 120 Mk.3(in which the eyepiece housing touches most noses, unless filed thinner, incidentally. Odd that the Navy never fixed these problems. Closure of the Naval Gun Factory was a big optical mistake) .......About making repros: How many? When? I would need an original for a while. What is a price that would be acceptable in the event I were to make 10 or 20? Is it one-piece ? I copied only the cushon portion of the 25 x 100. Never tried the hard rubber pieces which touch the cheek. That does not mean that it could not be done, but the draft angles are rather small, so I did just the cushion . They can be made quite flexible, and can be spread in or out to suit varying face widths, and locked in the chosen position. Since this would be repro of the Leitz, would a repro of the Zeiss shape be semi- acceptible?Being primarily a user or wannabe user, I am not sure of the nuances of the repro desirability heirarchy . I have seen photo of the same basic Zeiss shape in many WW II contexts, from land armored vehicles to Naval sights. I have sold the WW II U. S Navy rangefinder rubber masks since the early l970's. This is the same shape as the Baker or Rivkin offerings. They can be stretched more or less, depending upon the material chosen --Gordon Rayner ======================================================== Subject: Army inventory From: "Osborn Optical" A heads up to anyone obtaining current issue military optical or electro-optical equipment. We recently received an M25 Stabilized Binocular. As is our normal procedure, we insure through our security contacts and factory representatives that equipment is legal. In this case, we knew that the instrument was obtained in good faith, but the instrument turned out to still be in the U.S.Army's inventory. With some extreme effort and fancy paperwork help, the individuals instrument was declared excess and the issue resolved. MAKE SURE OF YOUR PURCHASE!! And if you know it's stolen, don't send it to me, I'll find out. Take it easy folks, Earl Osborn. Osborn Optical Systems. =========================================================== These three posts are from the Deutsche Optik bulletin board: ------------------ Con trick. Posted by james on 01/08/04 Folowing bids placed on blc items / flakglas on ebay I received two "too good to be true offers" to buy high class optics at give away prices........e.g. Ubootglas in mint order for $600 and Flakglas complete with stand and mount for $900. In each case the sellers wanted money transfer by Western Union and would not provide anything in terms of Id etc. One even sent jpegs of a glass which was still listed on sale with eBay. Seems that the con men are very active and interested in those who bid on ebay. ------------------- Re: NVA 7x40 Posted by Holger Merlitz on 01/08/04 ...the NVA DF 7x40. It was designed by Zeiss (Jena) in the 1960s and built until the late 1970s, when it was replaced with the roof prism EDF 7x40. Multi-coating was introduced in 1978 only, so the DF was without, and hence its transmission was only 75% (modern binoculars reach up to 95%). The EDF however came with multi-coating and it was in fact brighter. Regards, Holger ----------------------- New test report Posted by Holger Merlitz on 01/03/04 In this review I compare three quality binoculars used by the armed forces of the Warsaw Pact: The Rumanian IOR-SA 7x40, the East German Zeiss Jena EDF 7x40 and the Polish PZO 7x45. With regards, Holger http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/ior7x40.html ============================================================= ============================================================== Binocular List #283: 22 January 2004 =================================================== From: "giuseppe finizio" Subject: San Giorgio Binos in Dutch service I am researching Italian San Giorgio optical firm supplies to Dutch,Brasilian and Chilean Navies in 1938. I would be glad to hear from you experts about this subject. Thanks in advance. Beppe =================================================== Subject: Review. From: I greatly enjoyed the review by Holger. These are 3 of my favorite binoculars. The IOR is available commercially with full mil equipment of infrared detector/ranging grid and without either. The optical performance is slightly better sans mil fittings-a bit brighter prob due to lack of reticle. My non mil version was made later as well. According to the US importer, the coatings of IOR are licensed Zeiss Overkochen coatings, not CZJ. They also make an 8x30 Deltrentis-like glass which performs as well as its progenitor to my eye; a very heavy but optically outstanding 10x50; a lighter 10x40 and a very nice but slightly large for power 8x21 which has been mil issue in GB and that has the unusual feature of bilateral individual eye focus plus central focus! This results in great near focus making it a wonderful glass for nature hikes,etc. The yellow tint has been discussed before but I must say that I find the 7x40 a great all day, all weather glass because if it. I am not a serious bird watcher, however, so absolute color correctness is less important. Also, after some use you filter it out mentally and don't notice it. It clearly was Soviet issue as well and appears in fig 82 pg 158 of Dr. Seeger's second edition so labled. The mil EDF 7x40 has a most awkward IF filter system-you have to do gymnastics with the glass to get it in and out of action, and I have found the Docter version brighter as well. The PZO has the unique rubber armour but and seems to be a unique design as well. I have a 12x50 PZO mil issue of the same era which is a more typical variation of a CZJ design and does not enjoy the same overall quality. Just my 2 cents. Arnie ------- >The Rumanian IOR-SA 7x40, the East German Zeiss Jena EDF 7x40 and the Polish PZO 7x45 > http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/ior7x40.html ================================================ Subject: Nikon There is a very good review of early Nikon marks & models, mostly binoculars in the new NHS Journal: Richard Lane. Nippon Kogaku Logos 1918-1945. Nikon Historical Society NHS-82 (Dec. 31, 2003) 6-11. http://www.nikonhs.org/nhsindex ================================================ Subject: New Zeiss Binoculars From: Larry Gubas A message from Wolf Wehran on some new binoculars: Just back from a press meeting near Toledo with 20 journalists of the shooting + outdoor press in D, A and CH. We introduced 9 new rifle scopes and 3 new binos. These binos are a real pioneering achievement. For the first time their optical system has lenses of fluoride glass which permit an almost perfect correction of the secondary spectrum. An advantage which is visible. Fantastic contrast and colour rendering, no flare and no colour fringes under any lighting conditions. They have the designation "Victory 8x42 T* FL" for instance. FL stands for fluorite glass, as in our spotting scopes. --Wolf =============================================== Subject: 20x120 oculars From: "Steven M. Cather" My name is Steve Cather, and I would like to join the binocular list. I am a professional geologist in Socorro, New Mexico, and have had a long interest in optics, in both their use and repair. I have a question for the list members. I recently bought a 20x120 U.S. Navy binocular at a pawn shop in Gallup, New Mexico, for quite a reasonable price. They are, I believe, the Mark I, Mod 3 type pictured in Seeger's book, although the maufacturer's plate is missing. The optics are in very good shape, except for the ocular lenses which are unusably scratched from improper cleaning. Litton Industries still manufactures the binocular (now Mark III, Mod 5), and I am told the ocular lenses will interchange with mine. The hitch is that, because they are a military contractor and don't really want to be bothered with small purchases, they have a minimum $1000 order. Alternatively, I could have the existing lenses repolished by Focal Point, Inc., of Colorado for about $250. This would possibly leave a few of the deepest scratches and remove what is left of the coatings. Because I have never had an opportunity to look through an undamaged example, I don't know if if the optical potential of this binocular is worth the more expensive repair. I would any insights that members might have on these issues, and most particularily if they know of any other sources of parts for the binocular. Thanks. Steve Cather -- Steven M. Cather Ph.D. Senior Field Geologist New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology Socorro, NM 87801 http://geoinfo.nmt.edu/staff/cather/home.html ================================================================== Those who like to keep track of the flood of binoculars coming from China might find this one of interest. 'Apogee' is selling a 20x100 for the price of $199.; this one is different because it uses longer focus objectives & has very large eyepieces, claimed to provide 4.9 degrees of field or almost 100 degrees apparent field. I have not yet seen reviews of these. http://www.pbase.com/dloftus/gallery/100mm_binocs =========================================================== Notes from magazines: Steiner Binoculars, represented in the U.S. by Pioneer, 97 Foster Road, Moorestown, N.J., 08057, has offered to provide binoculars to U.S. servicemen in Iraq or Afganistan, whose duties include binocular use but who have not been issued a binocular. Used binoculars in excellent condition will be shipped free of charge to those who qualify and who contact Steiner with a short text on their need. I am fairly sure there are no eligible servicemen on this email list, but added this notice because of its historical interest, both from a commercial view and from a military supply view. ====================================================================== ====================================================================== Binocular List #284: 31 January 2004 ========================================================= Subject: 20X120 navy binoculars From: JKRVANC@___m Dear Dr. Carter: I saw your e-mail about your need for eyelens for your Mk1 mod 3 Navy Ships binocular. The Mk 1 & Mk2 (with mods.) were not made by Litton. They were made at the old Naval Gun factory in Wahington D.C. from 1947 thru 1959. This facility is closed. The later Mk 3 and mods were made by various companys. most of which are out of business. However there is a military contractor who repairs all these large binoculars who will talk to you and sell you parts; some even used ones. That is Atlas Instrument Company and their phone number is 1-717-267-1250. Ask for Gary or Terry Olson and tell them that Jim Rose sent you. Gary is my son in law! JIM ROSE, JIM's OPTICAL REPAIR, 14314 NE 86th CIRCLE. VANCOUVER, WA. 98262 E-MAIL JKRVANC@___M PHONE (360) 882-1853 ==================================================================== Subject: Repolishing Mk. 3 eyelenses From: gordiray@___t I have several of those binocs, and the plans . They all have this problem with the soft eyelenses,and they bump your nose unless filed, and the headrest is uncomfortable. I make better ones as copies of the 25 x 100 headrest. Can Bibb and DeWees give us some pointers? I would like to use some polishing machinery I have, when time permits --Gordon Rayner ======================================================================== Subject: Ducati Firm D.F. 10x80 From: "giuseppe finizio" Dear Sirs, As an Italian military binoculars collector I was particularly impressed by the photos of the Italian firm Ducati D.F. 10x80 published in Fernglaeser und Fernrohre by Dr. Seeger (bottom of page 357).Can anyone tell me the source of these interesting photos ? Dr. Seeger does not remember the source. I am researching these particular binoculars and I would be glad to make contact with the collector.Thanks in advance for all your help. Beppe ----------- We've had quite a few questions about Italian optics, and for good reason: some of them are outstanding quality, and almost nothing is known about the makers. The problem is, we've had very few answers to these questions. Maybe someone will be motivated to send in what they know, on any aspect of optical companies in Italy. It can be written in Italian, I'll post it & someone will translate it for the list. --Peter ================================================ Subject: Goerz 7x20 D.F. 99 in Italian service From: "giuseppe finizio" I have recently found a D.F.99 with aluminum prism cover plates very similar to that at page 87 of Dr Seeger masterpiece.On the left is marked C.P. Goertz D.R.Pat,on the right Trieder Binocle Artiglieria Italiana 288.I know that these binoculars were produced from 1900 until about 1907.Can anyone give me more details about Goertz supply of these binoculars to the Italian Army before W.W.I ? Beppe =================================================== Subject: Translation From: Si Here is the translation of the german site you wanted. http://babelfish.altavista.com/babelfish/tr?doit=done&urltext=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.akoehler .de%2F&lp=de_en&search.x=31&search.y=10 Regards Simon Gunning www.oemspace.co.uk ----------- Here is a sample, including the history related note in the page. Note that 'machine translations' are approximate at best: From where do the "telegram words" the Carl Zeiss Jena come - binoculars? 1951 were already the emergence of the technical terms no more used for the designation of the binoculars from the house Carl Zeiss Jena well-known and it comprehensive searches and questionings of former coworkers were employed, who led however to no clear result. From special interest thereby the origin to today registered mark "Deltrintem" for probably the most frequently built binoculars of the 8x30. celebration is stands only that the wide angle models "Delturis", "Deltrentis" and "Delactis" were developed toward end of the First World War by Dr. H. Erfle. Also the names seem to come from Dr. Erfle. Since in this time the single eyepiece attitude was still preferred, these glasses were designated first, for the averaging rubbing models the syllable "em" were only added. "Deltrintem" makes thereby an exception. For linguistic reasons will one instead of "Deltrentem" that klanglich improves "Deltrintem" to have selected. Over "Delturis" and "Delturisem" Dr. Erfle in the special edition wrote "new field glasses with large visual field" in the year 1921: "the syllable" tur "in its name is to express that they are to be considered as tourist glasses of this series." From the three particularly emphasized 8x-Glaesern thereby the name giving "Delturis" 8x24 is clarified, with "Delactis" 8x40 could be closed on "eightfold". With "Deltrentis" however each reference is missing. The asked persons were the opinion that during the word formation "Deltrentis" the Greek "triakonta" - "played thirty" a role and so that the objective diameter be designated should. With the newer models of Carl Zeiss Jena the names are "NOTAREM" to emphasize "NOBILEM" and "ASPECTEM" which was designated by its developers. The ending "em" attaches to the tradition, whereby the "Aspectem" telescopes are monokulare models and would have accordingly also "mo" to end, and/or as binocular prospect telescope over single eyepiece attitude orders. The designations are taken and for all series independently of the enlargement or the lens aperture are used to latin in each case. "Aspect" equivalently to "view, view" stands here for the preferential employment of the prospect telescopes with its high enlargements and the employment in connection with a stand in exposed places. The elegance of the roof Kant glasses is after the will of their developers noble-trusts Hilbert and Siegmar bridegroom with the name "Notarem" derived from "nota..." - "remarkably, remarkably" to be underlined, while on the Porrosystem are based and as high speed binoculars conceived "Nobilem" models after the word trunk "nobil.." - "were created famous, nobly, noticeably". ======================================================= Subject: From the Deutsche Optik bulletin board Re: Questions About Docter Optics 7x40 B/GA Posted by Holger Merlitz on 01/23/04 Hi, The civilian version of the former EDF 7x40 is still in production. This is the brochure on Docter's page: http://www.docter-germany.com/fernglas/outdoor/outdoor.pdf I think it can be ordered with and without reticle. The infrared detector is removed, as is the radioactive reticle illumination. The optical formula is unchanged, as is the general mechanical construction. However, those two flint-lenses which caused the yellow tint in the EDF are replaced with neutral colored glasses, so the present 7x40 B/GA is supposed to have a neutral color rendition. The lens coating is also slightly improved. Otherwise the optics are equivalent. In US, Docter products seem to be available here: http://www.hotbuyselectronics.com/binoculars.htm In Germany one can find them here: http://www.intercon-spacetec.com/ (if you can't read this page, just enquire at info@___on-spacetec.de). Marketing doesn't seem to be a strong side of Docter - I know of very few places where to get their products. Regards, Holger ====================================================================== Subject: New Zeiss models From: Kennyj2@___m I was most interested to read the news from Wolf via Larry about the recently announced "fluoride glass" binoculars from Zeiss. Reviews I have read in various places from owners of "ED" glass binoculars in the 8x and 9x power range , produced by Swift and Celestron would seem to indicate that the expected increase in image quality due to the more exotic glass content has been somewhat lacking , due in part to opinions that "APO" quality glass properties are to a certain extent being "wasted" on such low power optical instruments. It would seem that the general consensus is that APO / Fluorite only really comes into it's own at powers above 20x and increasingly so as magnification increases to 100x and above. Such opinions from low -power ED binocular testers of course could be as much a case of one only getting a single digit percentage increase in performance for a 30 % to 50% PRICE difference ! Given however , the fierce competition of the premium roof prism binos currently vying for the coveted title of " Best of Class" , currently including such fine products as Swarovski EL , Leica Ultravid, Nikon High Grade and modified Zeiss Victories , especially given the often criticised Victory Mark One offering from Zeiss , I am neither surprised nor disappointed to hear this announcement. Until about 12 years ago the legendary Zeiss 7 x 42 B GA T , now known as "dialyt classic" was virtually unchallenged as THE birding bino to own , but the past decade has seen Zeiss struggle a little to keep pace with the stringent requirements of the modern birder with deeper pockets. Purely from an optical standpoint , I have personally seen no other 7x binocular to rival the old "classic" even now -- but the trend seems to have been not only toward twist or pull , custom -eye -relief settable ,non -rubber eyecups for eyeglass wearers , broader central focussing wheels , lighter weight , true waterproofing and more modern , sleek , roof prism shape and softer surface coatings , but also toward HIGHER magnification. As we all know -- even all of these desireable qualities are of little use in a binocular unless they are accompanied by TOP rate optics , and now that the more cosmetic and practical aspects of the front runners have more or less evened themselves out , perhaps the real focus ( no pun intended ) will come back to the optics themselves , which Zeiss have never really fallen behind with anyway in my opinion. Of course whether or not the product actually delivers as promised remains to be seen. Some of the promises are hard to live up to indeed ! I am also keen to learn which other two models have been "earmarked" for such release. Although 8 x 42 and 12 x 56 would seem the most likely of configurations to accompany the stated 10 x 42 into the market place , I for one would have liked to have seen something just a little different for this series for a change -- such as a return to the once popular 7 x 35 size with more interesting new offerings perhaps in the forms of 9 x 45 and 11 x 56. Regards --Kenny. ================================================================================ Subject: The Nature Company 8x24 porro compact From: "Pete Rasmussen" I've been hunting similar unusual compacts and picked up this very interesting and potentially rare model. Is Japanese made and apparently the label company now defunct. Could not find definitive data on web searches. There is a company by this common-ish name but seems unrelated. Was hoping someone on the list would kindly shed light about the unit and/or label company. But, like most of us, I'm particularly curious as to the what/when on Japanese supplier to have done the actual manufacturing. The small oval inspection sticker reads 104 PASSED JTII, and front surface of focus wheel stamped 06095. They appear fully coated (some multi-coating perhaps indicated) optics, appear Bak-4 prism, is standard porro not reversed layout, and fully rubber armored body covering. They are embossed indicating a 7 deg. field but appear to be 60 deg. AFOV not 56! They have quite good eye relief considering that at approx. 8mm. Exit aperture is a respectable approx. 14mm. The images these babies produce are exceptionally bright and beautifully well resolved! This in reference comparison to various others I have here. No data yet on light leakage. There is a series of internal grooves inside behind the objectives. No prism shielding evident. There is a bit of chromatic error seen on-axis and some lateral image distortion evident. None-the-less are overall impressive optically and mechanically for something edging "quality-wise" into the lower end of the binocular products spectrum. Anyone on the list wanting to email me for jpegs to use as visual references may do so. Best regards, Pete Rasmussen =============================================================== Subject: Apogee 20x100 $199 + S&H From: rab In reply to the $ 199 Apogee 20x100 binoculars, thanks to the images provided in the last Binocular List, I caved in, called Apogee, chatted with the seller and placed my order. The images show that the 'multicoatings' are only on just the external lens surface, for 'show', so they can make the claim 'multicoated'. Although the prism housings are marked 4.9 degrees, this seemed highly improbable due to the proportions of the binocular and the size of the eyelenses, and the dealer confirmed that the actual field is closer to 3 degrees. He says the eyerelief is about 18mm. Still, an irresistible deal! I'll let you know what I think of them when the arrive. They said they would ship me a pair tomorrow. .................... I received my binoculars by UPS ground, only 4 or 5 days after placing the order. They appear to be undamaged. Set them up on a sturdy tripod and checked them out. They are out of collimation (but, as an stereoscopist, I can fuse the images, which then shows the field stops to be not superimposed). They are Center Focussing. The eyepiece outer cells, the prism covers, and the bridge mechanism are all made from lightweight PLASTIC. There is an enormous amount of flexure in the bridge, which means it will be impossible to keep both eyes constantly in focus. The main barrel appears to be cast aluminum, but it appears (I'm not certain) that the objective barrels are made from plastic. The worst problem, easily visible in daylight by looking at distant buildings and mountains, is that there is a sharp zonal irregularity in the image as one scans over the field of view. This suggests they probably used one or more molded plastic lens elements, or that the glass elements are made with unprecedented sloppiness. Night time testing shows that the optics are very poor, in every respect, at night. It is apparent that these binoculars are to be avoided, despite their $199 price tag. Regards, Dick Buchroeder. =============================================================== Subject: Irrelevant note for the bored From: Peter Abrahams The informal group that has held meetings in Los Angeles, Vancouver Wash., San Diego, and now Tucson & Koblenz, has become known as the 'Binocular Historical Society', or BHS for those who dislike typing. Those who dislike typing so much they can't even be motivated to use the shift key spell it bhs, which inspired the thought in me, that we could take an old German 6x30 & engrave a three letter code 'bhs' as a Fertigungskennzeichen of sorts (it wouldn't be a 'forgery', it would be a 'tribute' ...... just like all those fake Waffen marks seen at gun shows are intended to 'inspire' rather than 'deceive'). But a check in John Walter's 'German Military Letter Codes' revealed that someone already used 'bhs': Farzeugfabrik Westfalia, Franz Knoebel & Soehne, Wiedenbrueck in Westfalen; a maker of automobile components. Maybe they made optics for autos. ================================================================ =============================================================== Binocular List #285: 11 Feb. 2004 ===================================================== Subject: Meeting this September in Germany From: Hans Seeger, Lothar Esch, & Peter Abrahams First Announcement: Meeting of The Binocular History Society in Koblenz from 3. - 5. September 2004; in cooperation with the Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung des BWB (German Bundeswehr) on the premises of the WTS (Mayener Str. 87, 56070 Koblenz, Germany). We expect 40 to 60 participants. The next announcement will include information on hotels. Attendees should be ready to make a reservation at that time (early). This convention will be an informative one where we will have the chance to learn from each other in a friendly atmosphere: "hands on", lectures, demonstrations, exhibits, theory, and mutual assistance. The WTS will arrange a special display of their optics and possibly show the blc 20 + 40 x 200 ready for use. The congress languages are English and German without translation. The discussion remarks will be translated simultaneously. We welcome suggestions and ideas for the meeting and the program! If there is an interest, we will organize a Ladies Program for Saturday. Hans Seeger hans.t.seeger@___ne.de Lothar Esch lothar.esch@___ Peter Abrahams telscope@___.com (contact me for street address & phone numbers of organizers) Preliminary program: Friday, September 3 9.30 Opening time of the show rooms in the WTS. All participants have free access 10.30 Informal get together, welcome drink for all attendees 12.00 Lunch in the canteen 13.00 Begin the lectures: The participants introduce themselves. Dr. Wimmer: The Zeiss Archive. 15.00 - 16.00 Visit of the special display of optics from the WTS, prepared by Lothar Simon 16.00 - 18.00 Brain storm with R & D people from optical firms: Present-day binoculars, features and limitations. Requirements for future binoculars. 19.30 Dinner in Güls Saturday, September 4 10.00 Start of the lectures 12.00 Lunch in the canteen 13.00 Silent auction 14.30 Lectures continued 15.00 Visit of the WTS exhibition and the book shop „Collectiana“ round the corner. 17.00 - ? Museum Night with beer, wine, food etc. Sunday, September 5 10.00 Start of lectures, panel discussion, summary, future projects, etc 12.30 Trip to Festung Ehrenbreitstein (huge fortification above Kobenz) 13.30 Guided tour through the site in Ehrenbreitstein. About 16.00: End of the meeting. Monday, September 6 Schedule is open for possible Options: 1) a factory tour in Wetzlar, Zeiss-Hensoldt (about 2 hours driving time with a car) 2) visit the Zeiss archive in Jena (about 4 - 5 hours driving time). =================================================== Subject: Revised Early Zeiss Article From: "Thomas" I have prepared and attach a revised version of my article on early Zeiss numbers. I have introduced a lot of information on features that might help the dating of binoculars together with what I hope is a much more accurate table (Table 2) to assist in the dating of the early Zeiss binoculars.There are also statistics on the last numbers with script writing, last with roman text, details of P Numbers on DF95 and DF6x, information on eyecup construction, physical dimensions etc. There remain many unanswered questions especially the one that deals with the transition from the first numbering system to the second one (the sequential system) By way of warning the Word document runs to 19 pages. The Excel document to 4 pages as previously. With Best Regards Thomas Antoniades ------------------ The files are posted to: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/Antoniades-Zeiss-2.doc http://home.europa.com/~telscope/Antoniades-Zeiss-tables-2.xls =========================================================== Subject: Survey of Japanese models From: Peter Abrahams Gene Harryman has updated his listing of Japanese made binoculars. http://home.europa.com/~telscope/JpnSurvy.xls It is getting large enough to be useful & interesting. This project could really go places if Gene got some more help with it. Contact him at: geneharryman@___s.net See the survey form & instructions for this inventory: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/JpnSurvy.txt ====================================================== From: "Osborn Optical" Subject: USN 20x120's I think there is a little confusion in regards to Steve Cather's identification of his 20x120's and the follow up by Jim Rose. Steve identified his big eyes as MK1 Mod 3's, but I believe they are MK3 Mod 1's. Jim is correct in that the MK1 Mod 0,1, and 2's were built by the Naval Gun Factory. They were followed by the MK 2 Mod 0 also produced by the NGF but were still essentially a MK1. There is anecdotal evidence that the MK3 Mod 0 was produced by Franklin Instrument Co. The next generation was the MK3 Mod 1 manufactured by the Kollmorgen Corp. Next followed the short lived MK3 Mod 2 built by Kollsman Instrument Corp which was the beginning of the current generation of mounted ship's binoculars. This was followed by the MK3 Mod 4 built by Optic-Electronic Corp. Last of all is the MK3 Mod 5 which has been produced by Kollmorgen and Optic- Electronic. Note: the division of Optic-Electronic that produced the 20x120's (and still does) was aquired by Litton, which has itself been aquired by Northrop Grumman. There is very little difference between the MK3 Mods 4 and 5, hence the common designation of MK3 Mod 4/5. For those interested, I do have new eyelenses for the MK3 series of 20x120's availible for sale. Hope this helped. Regards, Earl Osborn ------------------------- Osborn Optical Systems Glendale, AZ U.S.A. (623)847-4705 ============================================================= Subject: An Interesting Zeiss Optical Instrument From: Allen Feldman I recently acquired an interesting Zeiss instrument which I wonder if anyone can positively identify? I realize that strictly speaking it's not a binocular, but it does have two oculars! :-) My best guess is that it's a magnifier, possibly dedicated for a specific use. It appears to have interchangable eyelenses and features an elastic strap which clearly was meant to be worn around the head keep the instrument affixed to the user's eyes. Any help with a positive i.d. will be appreciated. URL to an image is: http://home.tampabay.rr.com/neat1/magna-zeiss0104.JPG TIA, Allen Feldman -------- Yes, that is a Zeiss binocular loupe, circa 1920s I believe, but I don't know the model name. However, I personally consider it a binocular, there are two entrance apertures & two exit apertures. --Peter ============================================================ Subject: About the names of some Carl Zeiss binoculars From: "Rafael Chamón Cobos" I read with interest the automatic translation of the article by Albrecht Koehler about the names of Carl Zeiss binoculars supplied by Simon Gunning. Beside the difficulty to fully understand the contents of the article, I am intrigated about the curious names of the following binoculars: Delturis 8x24 and Delturisem 8x24 Deltrentis 8x30 and Deltrintem 8x30 Delactis 8x40 and Delactem 8x40 The suffix "-is" indicates individual focusing version, and "-em" indicates center focusing verision, as said in the article. The particle "-tur-" indicates "turist" version. The particle "-trent-" seems to indicate "30". And and the particle "-act-" seems to indicate "8". All this is very confusing. And what about the common prefix "Del-". What should it mean? Is it perhaps related to the word "Deutsch"? Perhaps can someone of the list add some information? Regards Rafael ----------- Many binocular manufacturers used odd names in the first decades of this century. I believe one of the factors is that orders were placed by cable telegram, and it was desired to avoid confusion or misspelling. Some of these names will have a meaning, but some are just meant to sound good or be unique. Or maybe there's a better explanation that someone can provide us. --Peter ============================================================ Subject: Ets Krauss binoculars From: guus kasteel Dear friends, I recently found a nice Ets Krauss (Paris) 8x30 French military binoculars (MG = Ministere de la Guerre, number 3849). Unfortunately it has no production year on it. It has the same special feature as the Stadix model shown in Dr Seegers' book (Ed 1) on page 78, bottom figure: the reticule is adjustable to correct it to a horizontal position for every individual eye-distance. The ring/reticule system for this adjustment on the right ocular seems to be partly stuck and to avoid damage upon force, I first would like to learn some details on the construction. Is anyone familiar how the rotate-able ring is attached to the reticule? I can turn the ring in both directions over 180 degrees but the reticule seems to be stuck as it does not follow the movement. Also, both eye cups are missing. May be someone has eye cups from a similar model beyond repair? The bino has large diameter oculars, the diameter size of the fine thread which takes the eyecups is about 31.5 mm. Overall, the rest of the bino is in good shape and certainly a nice piece in the collection. Any help from someone who has seen these binoculars before? Guus ================================================================= Subject: Russian 10-30 x 80 From: "jean" I send you some pictures of unusual russian big bino found last summer. This one is described in the catalog of the Coblenz military museum. It is a 10 to 30x 80 optic; not very nice but very clear and bright (the same quality than the 20x110 russian binoculars ) The interesting thing is the magnification which can be change progressively from 10 to 30 like a real zoom camera. The eyes pieces seem to be the same than thoses seen on the 15x110 russian binoculars. It would be very interesting to know the mechanism of this type of magnification variation , and to have informations concerning the manufacturer and for which use this optic has been built. If someone in your list can help me? Regards from south of France, Jean-laurent PS I will try to come in Coblezn next september. =============================================================== ============================================================== Binocular List #286: 16 Feb. 2004 ==================================================== Subject: Catalogs on line The Smithsonian continues to post scans of their instrument catalogs. You can download individual pages. Negretti & Zambra's huge catalog of instruments from the 1870's: http://www.sil.si.edu/digitalcollections/trade-literature/scientific- instruments/files/51789/ Negretti & Zambra. Negretti & Zambra's Encyclopaedic Illustrated and Descriptive Catalogue / of Optical, Mathematical, Philosophical, Photographic and Standard Meteorological Instruments. London: ca. 1878. 564 p. Opera, race, & field glasses p267-273. p274-289; 274-275 invention of the telescope; 279-280 binocular telescopes. p272 quartz objectives: 'Rock crystal for tropical climates...retains its polish'....12 lenses. This last description is quite interesting.......I wonder if fungus does not grow on quartz? ------------- C.P. Goerz. Triëder-Binocles. Berlin: 1906. 32 p. http://web4.si.edu/sil/scientific-instruments/SIsingle- record.cfm?AuthorizedCompany=C%2EP%2E%20Goerz ========================================================================== Subject: Zeiss loupe From: " Jack Kelly" Some additional info regarding Alan Feldman's loupe. The earliest mention of this "Binocular Magnifier" in my reference material is from 1911 but it certainly could have been produced earlier. The magnifier was offered in IP sizes of 59, 62, 65, and 68 mm. In Alan's photo you can see that his is marked as a 62mm model. Available magnifications are listed as 3X, 2.5X, 2X, 1X and 0.75X . The shiny pin visible in Alan's center photo is designed to hold a series of attachments specific to different applications. For example, my 1911 catalog shows an illuminator, a reflective mirror with two holes to allow examination of the eye and a bench stand onto which the loupe could be mounted for examining specimens. Also available were special spectacle correction lenses to fit into the eyecup and an accessory lens set to modify the magnification. The complete set with headband, case, light, battery holder carried the code word Lascabais and sold for 64.50 Marks in 1912. The magnifier alone was Lasagnone and sold for 36 Marks. Regards, Jack ====================================================================== Subject: About the names of some Carl Zeiss binoculars From: Lothar Helling The prefix "Del" could mean "Delta" = angle. All the models with "Del" are wide angle models. Regards, Lothar > Delturis 8x24 and Delturisem 8x24 > Deltrentis 8x30 and Deltrintem 8x30 > Delactis 8x40 and Delactem 8x40 >And what about the common prefix "Del-". What should it mean? ====================================================================== Subject: Flakfernrohr article From: fantao@___t In case you haven't seen it, there is an informative article on cloudynights.com on restoring a 10x80 flakglas: http://www.cloudynights.com/breviews/flakfernrohr.htm Fan -------------- This is a good article, although some of the procedures would be detrimental to optical performance: "cerium oxide glass polishing compound used by car window repair shops. The orange- brown powder mixes with water to form a non-toxic paste which Delta Kits recommended applying with a circular cloth drill attachment. I decided to see how rubbing the prisms with a rag soaked in the paste and wrapped around a finger would work before I resorted to power tools on the prisms. After about 5 minutes of hard rubbing, I saw a noticeable difference. After 10 minutes the first prism looked almost as good as new. After working on both prisms for awhile longer, there was still some faint staining that looked like tarnishing, but the difference was like night and day. The faces of the prisms are a bit wavy looking in the places where serious rust deposits etched them, but they both now perform much better than I had ever hoped they would." ======================================================================== ====================================================================== Binocular List #287: 23 Feb. 2004 ======================================================== Subject: Zeiss Binocular Model Identification From: Nicholas Grossman I would like to get your help in identifying one of my Zeiss Binoculars. I collect only Zeiss products - this encompasses microscopes, telescopes, binoculars, measuring instruments, cameras etc. In the binocular field I have been fascinated by the products produced by Zeiss, in its own factories, outside of Germany. Zeiss had plants (before W.W.II) in Vienna, Austria, St. Petersburg, Russia, London, England, and Gyr, in Hungary. My question is about a model made in Gyr, during W.W.I, probably for the military The left prism cover (next to the eyepiece) is marked: ".K." - then the Austrian "double eagle" symbol - then "20.10.15" (the manufacturing date = October 20, 1915). Below this marking - is the standard lens shaped trade mark format " ZEISS KROLY - GYR" (Exactly same format as Carl Zeiss - Jena). -- Around the right side eyepiece prism cover - three lines. Top: M 11 Z - Middle line: Feldstecher 6 fach - Bottom line Nr. 541783. I have another identical pair of GYR binoculars - except this one has the usual black leather covering. -- It is marked on the left side prism cover: " .K. -- the Austrian 'double eagle' - 27 8 15" (August 27, 1915). Below it the classical Zeiss trade mark except it is marked GYR - instead of JENA. Right side - top line :"M. 11. Z" -- middle line: "Feldstecher 6 fach" - bottom line: "Nr. 517120". -- I would appreciate any enlightenment. -- Looking forward to our meeting in Tucson. Best regards, Nick Grossman. e-mail: balaton@___lantic.net. ============================================================= Subject: Goertz Imperial Russian 8 x 26 binocular From: wy (Tomasz is not on the list but I can forward all replies. --Peter) Warsaw, Poland February, 18th, 2004 Perhaps this may be useful to people compiling databases of serial numbers or I may get some feedback. Thank you very much. Yours sincerely, Tomasz C. P. Goertz Imperial Russian Army 8 x 26 binocular, manufactured in 1912 and distributed in Russia by the Sankt Petersburg branch of C. P. Goertz (variation of Goertz 8 x 26 Dienstglas with Cyrillic markings, serial number 8894) The specimen in my possession is a prismatic individual-focus 8 x 26 binocular manufactured in the year 1912 by the German company C. P. Goertz, used by the Imperial Russian Army during the I World War, distributed in Russia by the Sankt Petersburg branch of C. P. Goertz. The binocular seems identical with a fairly common binocular Goertz-Armee-Trieder Modell 1908 8 x 26, illustrated in Festschrift herausgegeben von der Optischen Anstalt C. P. Goertz Akt.-Ges. Berlin-Friedenau anlässlich der Feier ihres 25 Jährigen Bestehens 1886-1911, Berlin 1911, p. 56, introduced into the Prussian Army as a service glass (Dienstglas) by the order the Prussian War Ministry (Kgl. Preuss. Kriegsministerium) of November, 24th, 1908 (Festschrift, p. 57), used as one of standard German service glasses during the I World War. On the rear left-hand housing cover there is an inscription in Cyrillic block letters within the characteristic prism logo of C. P. Goertz: “K. P. GERTZ, ST. PETERSBURG” (English transliteration of the Cyrillic text), whereas the rear right-hand housing cover contains another Cyrillic inscription within the prism logo: “8 x No 663, PRIZMBINOKL 1912 G. (English transliteration of the Cyrillic text; in English translation: “8 x No 663, prismatic binocular, 1912 year”; it is significant that the letters No are written in Latin script as the only letters in both inscriptions). All the inscriptions are machine-stamped on the covers and stand out in relief. At the front of the binocular, on the bridge near the right-hand housing cover, the serial number of the binocular is stamped: 8894. The right-hand optical unit contains a reticle in the form of a cross with scale but without numbering. The binocular is made partly of zinc (housing and bridge), partly of brass (front and rear housing covers, objective covers, the axis of the bridge, focus-adjusting knobs). Each front housing cover is fixed with 2 brass screws, each rear housing cover with 2 brass screws as well. The housing of the binocular is covered in black material (probably leather, fully-preserved) and all the remaining metal parts are painted black (about 80% of the black paint remaining). The binocular is complete with an apparently original medium-brown leather removable strap with brass rivets; the leather furniture and the carrying-case are missing. The eye-cups are made of bronze covered in black plastic (one eye-cup has a tiny chip through which metal is visible). The front part of the bridge has a large brass circular knob for fixing the bridge at the required interpupillary distances; the circular scale of interpupillary distances at the rear part of the axis of the bridge is missing (it must have been unscrewed and lost long ago). The binocular is in fairly good, unfalsified condition (its present condition is “as found”, without any attempts at restoration); it is functional, with slightly misaligned prisms and some small fungus growths on the glass surface in the right-hand optical unit (the damage to the optics is not severe and the binocular is still usable). It is obvious from the construction of the specimen (individual focus, the presence of a reticle, metal eye-cups covered in plastic, resemblance to the Goertz- Armee-Trieder Modell 1908 8 x 26) that it is a military binocular; however, no information about any Goertz Imperial Russian Army binoculars could so far be found in any English- or German-language sources or in the Internet (sources mention only Carl Zeiss military binoculars with Cyrillic inscriptions: Feldstecher 8 x from the first decade of the 20th century). The Sankt Petersburg branch of C. P. Goertz, established on January, 1st, 1905 (cf. Festschrift, p. 50), probably existed until the outbreak of the war in August 1914. Hans Seeger, in his book Militärische Ferngläser und Fernrohre, 2.3.4 - I, pages 83-101, writes: “By 1906, Goerz field glasses 'are officially introduced into the following countries: Germany, Russia, Austria, Hungary, England, Italy, Portugal, Japan, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Holland, Rumania, Bulgaria, Greece, United States of North America' (text from a brochure)”, which suggests that this type of binocular might also have been officially introduced into the Russian Army. The numeral 663 stamped on the binocular may be a company product-number, since some Goertz products contain similar markings, e.g. the auxiliary artillery aiming- device (Hilfsrichtkreis), shown on page 61 of the Festschrift, is marked C.P. Goertz A.G. No 779. On the other hand, the number 663 might also mean something else. It not clear whether the binocular was made in Germany or in Russia, though the former is much more probable; the Festschrift, published in 1911, does not mention any binocular production carried in Russia at that time. The number of binoculars produced by Goertz for the Imperial Russian Army is unknown, but might have been quite significant (several thousand?). What makes this binocular particularly interesting is the striking fact that, paradoxically, during the I World War the same model of an excellent German binocular might have been used by German and Russian officers on opposite sides of the front, e.g. during the great battle of Tannenberg in 1914. Since Polish optical industry was established only in 1921, in the years 1918-1921 similar binoculars were also used in the newly-established Polish Army, especially during the war between Poland and Soviet Russia in 1919-1920 (they can be seen in photographs; they are sometimes Goertz-Armee-Trieder Modell 1908 8 x 26 or Goertz-Armee-Trieder Modell 1908 6 x 24). No doubt the situation in the newly-established Soviet Army was exactly the same. The Russian variation of Goertz 8 x 26 Dienstglas with Cyrillic markings is apparently quite rare nowadays. I hope the above information may be useful to those interested in the history of Goertz military binoculars or compiling databases of their serial numbers. Any information about German-made binoculars used by the Imperial Russian Army would be welcome. Tomasz Wy?y?ski, Warsaw, Poland, Europe (e-mail: towy@___.fm) ==================================================== ====================================================== Binocular List #288: 29 Feb. 2004 ============================================================================= Subject: Deutsche Optik From: "Mike" I'd like to announce the pending sale of Deutsche Optik to another firm. The buyer is a high-end mail order concern based in Nevada, and they intend to concentrate more on new-made items under the Deutsche Optik brand than we have in the past. The result is that many of our vintage optics, parts, and accessories will have to be sold off prior to the transaction closing. Anyone interested in making a killer deal on same should plan to come out and see us in the next month or so. Since your nascent binocular collectors group also includes so many long-time supporters of ours, I'd also like to donate several distinctive items to be auctioned off at the Tucson item next month. Regrettably, I cannot attend, but my hope is that the proceeds can be used to further the group's development and goals. In doing so, my heartfelt thanks and regards go out to those of you who helped make Deutsche Optik such a success. s/ Mike Rivkin =============================================================== Subject: Hunalex Paris From: "Dan Weinstock" Does anyone have any information about the manufacturer of binoculars marked "Hunalex-Paris"? Are they French or German? Thanks and best regards, Dan -Daniel Weinstock M.D. Geneva, New York weindan@___ter.rr.com ==================================================================== Subject: Meeting in Tucson The Viscount Hotel we're meeting at is not a budget operation (you don't get meeting rooms at a budget motel). We certainly understand that some attendees won't be able to pay the $98. room rate at the Viscount. Currently, 7 rooms are registered to BHS members. (Peter Abrahams, Forrest Babcock, Nick Grossman, Jack Kelly, Steve Rohan, Tim Stevens, Gene Lucas). This means the conference rooms will be $150 per day. If we have 10 rooms registered to the BHS, then the conference rooms are free. So, if you are undecided, please consider registering at the Viscount (and let me know). You could even register there, keeping another room, and cancel the Viscount if we don't get 10 rooms. If you have registered there & aren't on the list, please let me know. We now have one person looking for someone to split a room. If you have access to an LCD projector, a 'computer projector', to bring to the meeting, we need one. Viscount Suite Hotel 1-800-527-9666; 520-745-6500. 4855 E. Broadway. They have a gym & pool. Discounted airport shuttle 'Arizona Stagecoach'. --------- Binocular History Society meeting in Tucson 19-21 March Speakers include: --Earl Osborn. USN OM rank, schools, etc. --Fan Tao, 6x42 used in P61. --Peter Abrahams, B&L Mk 41 --Jack Kelly, B&L 'Feldstechers'; B&L -Zeiss business connection --Dick Buchroeder. Lens design at B&L/Rochester, 1964-1968. --Steve Stayton, B&L from early to 1975. We are going to take this focus on B&L, and communicate with the B&L archives about the level of interest in their history. Hopefully this will result in assistance from them. The current list of attendees: Peter Abrahams, Forrest Babcock, Dick Buchroeder, Nick Grossman, Jack Kelly, Dean Ketelsen, Earl Osborne & son, Steve Rohan, Steve Stayton, Tim Stevens, Fan Tao, John Anderson, Frank Doherty, James Lidgett. Schedule overview: Friday PM: Registration and informal social time Saturday AM: Registration Saturday AM: Presentations and displays Saturday PM: Field trip to University of Arizona Mirror Lab Saturday Evening: Buffet dinner Sunday: Presentations, Swap meet, Auction Sunday PM: adjourn ==================================================================================== =========================================================================== Binocular List #289: 4 March 2004 ============================ Subject: Mk 41 booklet From: Peter Abrahams During WWII, B&L hired the Jordanoff Corporation ('Visual Education') to produce an instruction manual for the B&L Mk 41 binocular. Jordanoff then produced an advertising booklet, titled 'Project Binocular', about this contract work, with very nice cutaway images of the Mk 41. There are photocopies of this booklet, but the quality is not good. If you own an original copy of this, or know where one can be found, please let me know. thanks Peter =========================================== Subject: Meeting in Tucson There is still time to get a hotel room for the meeting 19-21 March. We will be getting together at 5 or 6 on Friday at the Viscount, but the first activities are Sat. AM. Here is a list of the items that Deutsche Optik is donating for an auction. Thanks to Mike for supporting the 'Binocular History Society' in this manner, and email mike@___heoptik.com if you want to learn what they are clearing out. a) WWII Nitrogen Purging Machine in box, British military issue. b) various framed bits of binocular artwork, including a couple of WWI-era "We Need Binoculars" posters (one British, one American). These are originals, and I also have some small reproductions as well. c) A small (but interesting) notebook full of original Carl Zeiss-Jena advertisements, ca. 1920s. d) Original Carl Zeiss-Jena coffee table book, ca 1970. e) Dirty (but original) Carl Zeiss-Jena cap. f) Quite a stack of telescope/binocular literature, including books, pamphlets, reprints, etc. Some general, some technical. Some will be of little interest and others quite a bit. g) Quantity of original WWII binocular parts, assorted items, in WWII-dated packaging. More interesting than useful... h) two dozen leather/canvas binocular cases, most in fair condition only but a number of hard-to-find sizes. i) Variety of ocular rainguards, rubber objective covers, and various other handy rubber/composite parts. ================================================ Subject: Meeting in Germany From: Peter Abrahams Arrangements for the meeting in Koblenz, Germany, 3-5 September, are progressing nicely. If you are planning to go (and are fairly certain of your plans), and have no idea how to find a hotel room in Koblenz, please email me. I cannot be of direct assistance, but I will coordinate efforts. ================================================ ===================================================== Binocular List #290: 12 March 2004 =========================================================================== Subject: Binuxit From: "A. Tenenholtz" I recently examined a Leitz Binuxit glass, an 8x30 Center Focus binocular. I was surprised to find a reticle in the left eyepiece as reticles are usually associated with miltary or marine Individual Focus binoculars. Was this standard, optional or special order for the Binuxit? I also examined a contemporary Marseptit, which is free of any reticle. Yours truly, Arthur Tenenholtz ============================================================================ Subject: Re: 7x20 D.F. 99 in Italian service From: "giuseppe finizio" I am researching the Italian military binoculars subject and I have some problems with a Zeiss monocular 6x30 (similar to that at page 91 of Mr Rohan's book but with the full Zeiss logo).It is numbered 1972211 and I wish to know the production year.Can you help me ? Thanks again for your time and understanding. Giuseppe ============================================================================== From: Michael Zhou Subject: The Fraser-Volpe M25 Gyro Stabilized Binoculars The Fraser-Volpe M25 Gyro Stabilized Binoculars A while back I bought a non-functioning pair of Fraser-Volpe Corp. 14x41mm M25 binoculars from an online pawnshop. The unit looked relatively new, I couldn’t find any evidence of abuse or an accidental drop. When I gave it a light shook, I could see and hear the prisms rocking back and forth and perhaps a loose screw rolling around. The only vital sign was the sound of the motor when I turned it on. I went to the web to pull up a list of binoculars repair shops, made some calls, but had a difficult time finding someone who can work on the FVC M25. I even thought about breaking out my screwdrivers and have a go at it out of desperation, luckily I didn’t. Time went by and one day I managed to get the search to come back with a small paragraph of the XM25 dated April 1998 by Earl Osborn. Then I searched for “Earl Obsorn” and came up with a list of three phone numbers. On making the third call, bingo - I found the OM I was looking for. After a long wait I finally got it back and immediately gave it a try. The stabilization is amazing, I can make out 2” characters blocks away and the resolution is excellent. I whipped out my 10 year old Fujinon 14x40 Stabiscope for a quick comparison. The Fujinon has a flatter view and perfect edge-to-edge sharpness. The FVC looks cooler, more comfortable to hold, better contrast, and quicker stabilization response time. Both are rather heavy handheld instruments. From the factory, the unit comes with a hard pelican case tagged with the FVC logo, model number, NSN number, a soft case, straps, lens caps, and a two page instruction, and some connectors perhaps to draw power from for a helicopter, humvee, or tank. The somewhat bulky unit looks like an armored handheld camcorder running a Beta tape, except it has two sets of lenses. It has 41mm objectives and inside are prisms are fitted with two nickel sized green laser filters. The M25 is said to be able to run continuously for 12 hours on two AA batteries, but I have not confirmed this. In addition to powering the gyro motor, the AA batteries also illuminate the internal ranging reticle on the right eyepiece. To operate the M25, turn the unit on and wait about 15 seconds for the motor to reach its optimum speed. Hold the unit with two hands so your fingertips are on the top panel. Sight and acquire the target, and exert some pressure on the top via your fingers ­ you will hear a click and WOW! I tried it sitting down with my elbows resting on knees and without the stabilization, the image vibrates from my heartbeats and hand tremors, but with the stabilization on, the image is an absolute still. Before taking it down from you eyes, relax your fingers to lock the gimbals. The placement of the solid-state caging switch is clearly ahead of the Fujinon’s thumb operated switch. In the case of the Fujinon S1440, it is very easy to forget to lock the cage before you put the binoculars down which is a bad thing for the delicate gimbals/bearings. The M25 caging design minimizes this from occurring and just a little pressure will turn the stabilization on. I found the M25’s handling of panning is as good if not better than the Fujinon - and the M25 is only powered by two AA batteries, while the Fujinon requires six. Also, during panning, the image is sharper with the M25. Like the 7x50 M22 series binoculars, the M25’s laser filter tints the image with a shade of violet. I like this because it enhances the contrast and give the overall view a cool feeling. According to Earl, gyro stabilized binoculars by nature are delicate instruments. While the M25 can take minor bumps, it is unlikely to be able to withstand a hard drop onto concrete. When in transport, the M25 should be sleeved into the soft case and then put into the pelican hard shell case for best protection. Although the M25 does not have all the best optical properties (perfect edge sharpness, true flat view, or ultra rugged built), its stabilization ability is amazing. The design is ergonomic and the optics is more than enough for a military grade binoculars. Fraser-Volpe Corporation boasts that the STEDI-EYE M25 removes up to 98% of image motion caused by hand tremor and platform vibration, providing exceptional viewing from all types of moving boats, aircraft and automobiles. I don’t think they are exaggerating. Special thanks to Earl of Osborn Optical Systems; if it weren’t for his expertise, my broken M25 would still be sitting in the closet. Regards, Michael Zhou P.S.: I think they are current and the company now makes a series of commercial version of it. I don't have any information on how many were produced or sold and how much is per unit. ============================================================================== Subject: Links, forwarded by Gene Lucas: Evolution of the opthalmologic industry http://www.bruneni.com/SCCOWeb/IndustryIndex.html John Jacob Bausch 1836-1926 http://www.bruneni.com/Bausch.htm Bio of Henry Lomb and a portrait http://www.germanheritage.com/biographies/atol/bausch.html =============================================================================== Subject: 20x120 From: gordiray@___t Regarding your USN 20 x 120 x 3.5 deg. :I have several of the Kollmorgen early type with the dovetail mount between the barrels. I machined extras of the male dovetail to mate it, but in aluminum, anodized. I have a ig for more of this. I do not have any of the types with the trunnions on the sides, though I did have a Kollsman many years ago. I do have a mount for the trunnion types, made by Kegelman Bros. in Pa. for the Navy. I got itat the local auction here a North Island several years ago . Had another, also, which I sold. These have an elevating column and a fork. Would like to sell or trade away the mount. They are quite heavy, but good for a permanent or semi-permanent mount on a deck or inside an observatory. I could meet you halfway sometime, though I am not sure that I shall be able to make the upcoming Tucson meeting. By the way , I have two of the Parabam 10 1/2 foot diameter domes in storage in Yuma. These are the type which can be seen in the distance as one drives past/through White Sands/Holloman. High quality fiberglass. See on Fujifilm .net , enter my email address, plus the word"photos" ( without quotes). I have the plans for both of the above binocular types, including optical specs radii, etc. The objectives differ, but the eyelenses are the same . The Navy had lots of trouble and expense with the soft glass there. The contractors gouge. Fuji parts have always been much more reasonable. I have several Nikon 20 x 120, and occasionally a used Fuji 25x 150, and can get new ones. Gordon Rayner ============================================================================== Subject: Meeting in Tucson I am leaving a few days early, so this will likely be the last list before the 20-21 March meeting. Tucson is the center of telescope design & use, in the US & maybe worldwide, so there is plenty to do. We have about 15 attendees, who will need shoes & photo ID for our Saturday tour. I will prepare a full report ASAP after my return. Schedule: Friday (3/19): 6PM Meet at Viscount atrium area in front (or in if we get in) the Bristol Room for informal get together and go for drinks and dinner from there. Saturday (3/20): 8AM - Registration, Bristol Room, Viscount Suite Hotel 9AM - 12Noon, Papers and displays 12Noon - Lunch (not provided, local restaurants close by) 1:45PM - UofA Mirror Lab Tour 4:30PM - Meet at Steve Stayton's front yard for group binocular testing party. There is a clear view of the Catalina mountains with TV towers at 15 miles line of sight. Bring you best big or small binocs or ones of special interest. We will have a Russian 30X180 binocular set up for evaluation. 7PM - Buffet dinner Sunday (3/21): 9AM-12Noon - Presentations and displays, Bristol Room 12Noon - lunch (not provided) 1-3PM - Swap meet and auction Adjourn ======================================================== =========================================================== Binocular List #291: 29 March 2004 ============================================================ Subject: Carl Zeiss DF 30,40,50 x 150 From: Bjørnar Aule I am looking for information to this large binoculars. I have a pricelist for "Astro 78" where this binoculars are listed. Do sombody have the catalog Astro 78 or something else about this binoculars ? I would like to buy copy of all information about the 150 mm. Bjørnar Aule ============================================================ Subject: Aluminum body Zeiss 25 x 100 nameplate, Kunming 100mm. From: gordiray@___t I have an aluminum body, early WWII Zeiss 25 x 100. Its nameplate is missing. Can someone send a rubbing and/or photo with scale, of theirs ? Would a pantagraph be the method? Or something digital and high tech? I have some plans and testing specifications for these, as well as for the 12x 60, 12 x 70, and 15 x 90. Zeiss matched the objective spacer thickness to the actual glass melt indices of the specimen at hand, via three column nomograph, in which the glass ordinates are linked by a straight line, whose intersection with the spacer column gives the spacer thickness. Could a lack of such methods be the cause of problems in the Norinco-Kunming 20 and 40 x 100 that everybody were selling a while back.? The Cloudy Nights site seems to be the only independent source of info about these. --Gordon Rayner ------------- That sounds like a very nice nomograph. I will post a copy if anyone can send the citation. --Peter ============================================================= Subject: New review by Merlitz http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/kestrel10x50.html Review: 10x50 Swift Kestrel vs. Zeiss Jenoptem vs. Hensoldt Diagon by Holger Merlitz ============================================================== Subject: Kershaw Binoculars From: jdamodels@___m I am trying to date two Kershaw 6x24 binoculars. Both are of the early style with hinges that are integral with the prism cover plates. These are civilian glasses that were donated to the war effort but are identical to the Bino Prism No.3 Mk II shown on page 147 of Dr. Rohan's book. It is my understanding that this model was manufactured from 1909 until sometime in the 1930's. Being civilian binoculars, they have no manufacture dates on them. The first binocular is inscribed "A. Kershaw & Son Ltd. Leeds" with serial #N3881. The second has the name KERSHAW within an oval with "6x" over it and the serial #11922. Both binoculars have identical large squared-off yellow Admiralty broad arrows inlaid into the textured body covering. Number N3881 is also marked with very large broad arrows on the cover plates next to the objective lenses. These are type "f" on page 139 of Dr. Rohan's book. They are inlaid with raised white metal. The book "Barr & Stroud Binoculars and the Royal Navy" (page 125) by William Reid indicates that this type of broad arrow was associated with Britain's National Physical Laboratory during the WW1 era. This may be sufficient to date #N3881 in the 1909 (start of manufacture for this model) to 1918 range. This specimen is in good condition appearing to have never been overhauled. The second binocular (serial #11922) has no military markings other than the yellow broad arrows. It is in excellent, close to mint, condition. It just looks too new to be from the WWI era. The inlaid yellow arrows are dimensionally identical and appear to be made of the same celluloid plastic. The inlay technique is also identical for both binoculars. The celluloid on #N3881 has darkened somewhat with age while the arrows on #11922 are still fairly bright. Please note that this is not the style of arrow seen on WW2 vintage Barr & Stroud CF25 and CF41 binoculars. Nor is it like those seen on the Canadian R.E.L. glasses. The arrows on the B&S and R.E.L. binoculars have rounded ends and look like they were cut into the body covering with a milling machine. This type of arrow seems to be typically filled with yellow paint, not celluloid. The arrows on my specimens are neatly cut into the covering and have sharp square ends. The big question is this; Was the yellow squared-off celluloid inlaid broad arrow marking used in both World Wars? If it was not used in WW2, did it continue to be used for any period of time after WW1 and if so for how long? Any help with this would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Regards, John Anderson ================================================================== Subject: Meeting in Tucson From: Peter Abrahams Binocular collectors met in Los Angeles (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, and earlier years), Vancouver (April 2002), & Herne, UK (July 2002). At the 2004 meeting in Tucson, it was decided by informal poll that these early meetings were not 'Binocular History Society' meetings. The first meeting of the Binocular History Society was in San Diego, 2003, when we named the society. The second was in Tucson, 2004. The third will be in Koblenz, 2004. We are looking for a venue for the fourth meeting. Second meeting of the Binocular History Society, 19-21 March 2004, Tucson, Viscount Suite Hotel. In attendance were: Peter Abrahams, John Anderson, Forrest Babcock, Dick Buchroeder, Nick Grossman, Jack Kelly, James Lidgett, Gene Lucas, Earl Osborne, Earl Osborne Jr., Steve Rohan, Steve Stayton, Tim Stevens, Fan Tao & Janet Zuelke. Friday, 19 March, we gathered for dinner and conversation. Saturday 20 March, displays were set up, including: Two notebooks from John Anderson, detailing binocular models and their context. Fan Tao showed two 6x42 binoculars made by Kodak for the P-61 aircraft during WWII, with related papers; and the Univex plastic body binocular prototype from WWII, with papers. Steve Stayton brought a large variety of binoculars by Bausch & Lomb, and many brochures & catalogs. Steve Rohan brought a mounted Sard 6x42, and Gene Lucas showed a hand held Sard 6x42. Jack Kelly shipped from Vancouver a variety of early Zeiss Feldstechers. The first presentation was by Dick Buchroeder, on 'Lens design at B & L / Rochester, 1964-1968'. A drawing of the B&L factory was displayed and the work areas described. Earl Osborne gave the second talk, about the U.S. Navy Opticalman service. A broad outline of military issue optics was presented, leading to the Navy schools and yards used for optics work. This was a detailed and lengthy talk, that can hopefully be published in the future. Much time was spent in informal discussion and examination of displays. Saturday afternoon, the group was given a tour of the University of Arizona's mirror laboratory, where mirrors to 8.4 meters in diameter are under fabrication. Roger Ceragioli of the lab was our host. Saturday evening, we met at the home of Steve Stayton, for inspection & use of a variety of binoculars. On Sunday morning, we continued with presentations. Fan Tao presented 'The P-61 Night Binocular: P-61 Black Widow History, Night Binocular History, Details, & Images'. This very unusual special purpose binocular can be seen at his web site, http://fantao.home.att.net/m6x42.htm Peter Abrahams gave a talk on 'The Bausch & Lomb Mark 41 7 x 50', thought by most to be the finest binocular produced by B&L. Little is known about the development or use of these binoculars, and the talk was mostly a runthrough of manuals & papers on this model. Jack Kelly spoke on 'The B&L -Zeiss Connection, 1891-1939', illustrated with a large number of photos comparing similar models made by the two companies. Steve Stayton gave us 'A Brief History of Bausch & Lomb Binoculars, 1898 to 1975', a review of the beginning and evolution of B&L binocular models through the end of US manufacture in 1975 with a display of significant binoculars in B&L history. Fan Tao closed the paper session with an informal discussion of the Univex 6x42 plastic body binocular. We closed the meeting with an auction of items donated by Mike Rifkin of Deutsche Optik, augmented with items from members. Proceeds will be used by the Binocular History Society, probably for the purpose of facilitating future meetings. We welcome input (and volunteers) to assist in upcoming meetings. The BHS is grateful to Mike Rifkin for the donation, and to Steve Stayton for hosting the meeting. ===================================================================================== ============================================================================== Binocular List #292: 10 April 2004 ================================================================== Subject: Meetings From: Peter Abrahams I was a bit too concise regarding earlier meetings of binocular collectors. As I wrote, in Tucson, an informal poll was taken regarding numbering of these meetings. At some point in the future, someone will want to start numbering the meetings: 'The Fifth Meeting of the Binocular History Society'. Should we start the numbering when we named the group (in San Diego)? Or should we try to include earlier meetings? In Tucson, those who spoke up, indicated that we should start the numbering with San Diego, making Tucson the second and Koblenz the third. We would like to credit those who worked to put on earlier meetings, and a chronology of meetings, beginning in the 1980s I believe, is being assembled. ============================================================ Subject: BHS meeting in Tucson From: fantao@___t I posted some pictures from the BHS meeting in Tucson on my web page: (home page) http://home.att.net/~binofan/ (direct link) http://home.att.net/~binofan/tucson04.htm Sorry but I did not take pictures of the mirror lab tour or at Steve Stayton's place. I am willing to post other pictures on my site, but note I have limited space. For those who want to see a copy of my P-61 binocular presentation (PDF format), please e-mail me. Thanks to all who participated and especially to our host Steve Stayton. Fan Tao fantao@___t ================================================================== Subject: 7X50 Kern Focalpin, repair needed From: "Frederick Schwartzman" I recently bought a 7X50 Kern Focalpin glass with Royal Australian Air Force markings. The diopter adjustment ring needs repair or replacement. Unfortunately, the experienced repairman at Heitz in New York has passed away. It occurred to me that since this glass was used by the military there must be repairmen or facilities in Australia with experience and possibly spare parts. Can anyone "down under" please provide any information? Thanks, Fred Schwartzman ================================================================= Subject: Goerz Serial Numbers From: jdamodels@___m I am trying to construct a serial number database for C.P. Goerz Binoculars. Could list members who own Goerz binoculars please e-mail me the model names, magnification X objective diameters, and serial numbers. With a little time and luck, maybe I can confirm what was made when and we can all date our Goerz specimens more accurately. I doubt that I will accomplish anything like Seeger has done with Zeiss, but perhaps something can be learned. Any contribution will be greatly appreciated. Thank you. My e-mail address is: jdamodels@___m. Best regards, John Anderson ------------------------- Goerz was responsible for some important innovations in binoculars, and must have had excellent engineers. Any new information on Goerz would be very helpful, and I hope John receives much assistance in his project. --Peter ================================================================== Subject: 25 x 100, 10 x 80/20deg inclined, B&L 7x 50 wide angle From: gordiray@___t I have the Zeiss 25 x 100 nomograph , from l970 archival research while sleeping in my V. W. and showering in the fountain at the Watergate at night. There were suds in the fountain from others. I did not see Liddy nor Hunt nor the Cubans. Someplace, I have or had, the B&L wide angle 7 x 50 optical drawings. The body molds had been scrapped a week before I called in the l970's. I just acquired a nice specimen with case and eyeguard, and am building a counterweighted mount for it today, with eccentrically mounted weight for fine tuning. After 60 years, the rubber needs some Armor-All or similar. I have a nice 10 x 80/20 deg. blc, which has strange, very shallow rubs on the objectives. I have been re-reading the Telescope Making series, edited by Richard Berry, for Kalmbach Publishing in Milwaukee, with an eye toward refinishing these and some Fuji 25 x 150 objectives. Must upgrade spherometry. Who can tell about problems/lack of them in getting under remaining layers of the multicoating on the Fuji's?What Microgrits, pH, pre-wipe with chemicals, etc? Mag fuoride is easy to remove, and the Zeiss WW II cryolite will come off with hot water, which I learned the hard way. I met Smakula in l967. Does anybody have the radii for the Zeiss 10 x 80/20 deg inclined .? --Gordon Rayner ==================================================================== ==================================================================== Binocular List #293: 20 April 2004 =========================================================== Subject: Repair; sales From: "Mike" Regarding the search for a repair source Down Under, you might try John Kingsford (p/u e-mail address from his recent posting on our Bulletin Board). Also, as we continue to clean things out in preparation for sale, we've come across several lots of unreconditioned military binos that we would love to move as-is. Most or all will need some work (e.g., cleaning, collimation, prism swapping, etc.), but we'll let 'em go cheap if anyone out there is looking for a summertime project and subsequent eBay or gun show windfall. They are as follows: (a) six (6) pcs CZeiss-Jena/Nedensco 8x30 from 1920s; ( b) 12 pcs CZeiss-Jena DF 6x24 (also from 1920s); (c) 40 pcs WWII RAF 5x40, and (d) 140 pcs British 7x50 No. 5 (NATO issue). NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED, so just let me know. s/ Mike Rivkin ======================================================== Subject: Nikon Catalogus homepage From: Hans Braakhuis My first internetpage is ready. In the future more articles will be published on this page http://home.planet.nl/~nikon.catalogus/ --Hans Braakhuis ------------ Especially see: http://home.planet.nl/~nikon.catalogus/1852759.htm ("small part of an study to the history of Nippon Kogaku, between the years 1600 - 1949. Including the start of the Japanese photographical industry and the optical relations between the Netherlands and Japan.") I look forward to more of this project, thanks Peter ============================================================= Gene Harryman's survey of Japanese binoculars has grown quite a bit recently. Please consider participating in this listing of Japanese binoculars. The instructions, found at http://home.europa.com/~telscope/JpnSurvy.txt have a new email address: Email completed form to: listkeeper@___om The inventory of Japanese made binoculars found in collections --Excel file http://home.europa.com/~telscope/JpnSurvy.xls =========================================================== ============================================================== Binocular List #294: 27 April 2004 ======================================================== Subject: Northrop-Grumman Electro-Optical Systems (20x120 Big Eyes and Night Vision products) From: "Lucas, Gene" Northrop-Grumman Electro-Optical Systems has merged the assets of several companies producing various products, including night vision devices, etc. Summary sheet of specs for various Northrop-Grumman Electro-Optical Systems is located here: http://www.es.northropgrumman.com/es/eos/prodsheetsumm.htm Under "Observation Devices", Click on "Big Eye" for spec sheet on Ship Mounted 20x120 Observation Binoculars. A word about Northrop Grumman EOS products... http://www.es.northropgrumman.com/es/eos/products.htm "Northrop Grumman Corporation, through mergers and acquisitions, has integrated the assets and resources of five premier night vision companies into one dynamic division, Northrop Grumman Electro-Optical Systems (NG EOS). Sales Dept. and contacts http://www.es.northropgrumman.com/es/eos/sales.htm Service Dept. contacts http://www.es.northropgrumman.com/es/eos/service.htm ========================================================= Subject: New test report from Holger Merlitz (From the Deutsche Optik bulletin board) In my latest review I compare the Nikon 8x32 SE with the Fujinon 8x30 FMTR-SX and the Hensoldt Fero-D 16. The report can be found here: http://de.geocities.com/holger_merlitz/nikon8x32.html ========================================================= Subject: Celestron 25x100 Binos -- 2nd time's the charm; question on Russian 6x30 binos in plastic case From: "Lucas, Gene" I recently purchased a pair of Celestron "Sky Master" 25x100 binoculars at an attractive close-out price ($280) at Guild Camera in Phoenix (going out of business sale). Normally, one would pre-view binoculars when purchasing at the store.....However.....it was late in the day, I was ready to accept the unboxed display pair, when the salesperson brought out an unbroken boxed unit from the back, and for some reason, I declined to open the box more than just enough to prove there was in fact a pair of binoculars in the packaging....My Bad!!! Unfortunately, when I had a chance to view through them at home (after a couple of days of bad weather!), I discovered that one barrell was grossly out of alignment -- vertically. I could fuse the images, but they were definitely a headache-maker. Well, I took them back last Saturday, and charmed the salesperson into exchanging them for a good pair (verified by mounting them on a tripod and viewing through them at the store, this time!!) So I believe I am going to be happy with this second pair, and it saved me the trouble of having the problem corrected via Celestron warranty service. These are nicely made (no doubt, Chinese origin), well finished, and include very sturdy double hinge brackets, fore and aft, with a sturdy chrome-plated rod running front to back, and a tripod mounting post that slides and clamps. Nice rubber dust cups for both ends. The interior and optics are very nicely finished, with baffling grooves to help cut stray light. Lenses are coated, with a green appearance (under flourescent lighting). BK-4 prisms. Fold down rubber cups on the individual focus eyepieces, marked from +3 through 0 to -3. The focus range (at infiniety) is adequate to cover my -2.5 diopter near-sightedness. There is no IPD marking scale. Good quality leatherette covering on the tapered barrells. There is a nice nylon case with velcro and zipper closures, and a heavy shoulder strap. Believe me, you need that. Although there are lugs on the barrells for a "neck" (?) strap, I don't think I will be hand-holding these any time soon, though you can find a center of balance (I suppose, if you work out with barbells!) Will be trying to get a peek at Comet Bradfield soon with these. I am working on ideas for a lay-down binocular "couch" with a parallelogram support for these and also my other 25x120 straight-thrus (still under construction--renovation!!) I think an accessory needed is some sort of peep-sight (beanshooter tube?) to show just what 3 degree area of the sky you are aiming at. I am working on some ideas for that. Also, the sliding tripod mount post needs a brass pad under the 1/4x20 clamp screw, to avoid scratching the mounting rod. I also acquired (from the Guild Photo sale) an "experienced" pair of Russian 6x30 binos in an interesting, somewhat beat up, hard plastic (bakelite?) case with leather straps. This pair had evidently languished for some years in the display case at Guild with a $295 price tag attached (I did not pay nearly that!!) The metal and leatherette work on the binocular itself is in very good condition. The leather neck strap missing from the binocular; the leather case strap is very worn and broken. There is black leatherette covering on the bino housing, with slight wear on the metal objective lens rings. The optics are in moderately good shape, clear, but not perfect. The eyepieces are individual focus, with hard plastic rings, no sign of rubber eye cups or any way to mount them. The right eyepiece has a military reticle. The prism on that side shows a small spot of deterioration. Looking in from both ends, the mountings and prisms and lenses otherwise look clear and serviceable, but are not coated. The left hand prism housing plate has an engraved hammer and sickle device with two pentagon shaped symbols below to each side. There is a number (possible serial no?) N55xxxxx (don't have it right in front of me at this time). And below that, the number " 1940r " all engraved in white. On the forward side of the forward hinge brackets, the number "7" is stamped on both brackets. No other markings on either the binocular or the hard plastic case. There is a cushion of rubberized material inside the top of the case. I have seen a pair of similar 6x30 binoculars listed on the web, in very bad shape, with a leather case. Are these possibly East German/Cold War era, rather than Russian origin? Would it be plausible to assume the number, "1940r" might be a pattern number, rather than a year of origin? Who has more information about such binoculars? Gene Lucas (17250) ================================================================= ================================================ Binocular List #295: 05 May 2004 ================================================ Subject: Journals from 1930 From: Peter Abrahams I found a couple of interesting British articles from 1934 & 1935. Coutts, W.B. Optical instruments. Physical Society's 24th Annual Exhibition. Journal of Scientific Instruments 11:2 (February 1934) 62-64. "Messrs NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA exhibited the compocular which is a 6 x 30 prismatic binocular carrying a 2 in. liquid prismatic compass on the right side of the upper plate. By means of a subsidiary prism system about 30 degrees of the compass card can be seen in the field of the right eye-piece." Coutts, W.B. Optical instruments. Physical Society's 25th Annual Exhibition. Journal of Scientific Instruments 12:2 (February 1935) 56-59. "Telescopes and Binoculars of improved type were to be seen on the stands of Messrs HENRY HUGHES & SON, LTD., Messrs W. WATSON & SONS, LTD., and Messrs WRAY (OPTICAL WORKS), LTD. The latter firm exhibited the “Raylite”, a new 8 x 30 model with a field of 8.7 degrees and exceptionally light in weight. The most novel binocular in the exhibition was to be seen in the research section. This was the cleanable prismatic binocular devised by Instructor-Captain T.Y. BAKER and Mr J.F. SUTTON of the Admiralty Research Laboratory, in which all elements can be removed for cleaning and replaced without affecting the adjustment for parallelism. The development of this instrument should be of great service to users of binoculars who reside in hot and damp climates, where binoculars seldom remain clean for reasonably long periods." Martin, Thomas, The British Optical Industry in the War. Journal of Scientific Instruments 23:2 (February 1946) 21-26. War production: 620,000 binoculars; 23,812 rangefinders; 394,463 telescopes. New design by R.G. Budden of Admiralty Research Lab, 5x40 binocular, fixed focus or focus by longitudinal movement of prisms. Total destruction of R. & J. Beck factory at Clerkenwell, where were manufactured artillery dial sights, which aim to the side or rear of a hidden target. ================================================= Subject: Monocular 'golf scopes' From: gordiray@___t I urge all to get the 5 x20 golf scopes now closing out. Google "golf scope". If only to check diopter settings. Added to a comparator, one can quantitatively measure collimation error and relative image rotation. Ignore the "yards". Measure the reticle by looking backward at it with a military binoc with a mil scale, or similar military sight or surveying instrument. Then convert to degrees, or grads, or radians or what you will . To see why this works, sketch a ray from the edge of the reticle, through the center of the golf scope objective ( an undeviated chief ray, in optical design terminology, but you do not need to know that for this purpose). These can work as sights, auxiliary telescopes, etc. Image is erect. All that for about $5-$10. You can see if things were damaged in transit down a mountain, during a Border Patrol chase, or if they left the Chinese factory within civilized tolerances, which, if recent visits to sporting goods chain outlets and marine suppliers, and gun shows, is doubtful, if you add it to a JTII hand collimator, our build an easy Army-Henson setup. All that is needed for this is the golf scope and a way to slide it. Henson- Army used a machinist`s surface gauge with pins out, the pins sliding on a flat surface with flat edge : a countertop cutout might suffice. I used a setup like this for many years. Alone , it is not suited to get hinge axes parallel to optical axes, but is good as an error measurer. Gordon Rayner ======================================================== Subject: Rangefinder From: Peter Abrahams Someone in Katoomba Australia got hold of a big battleship rangefinder & set it up for public use as 'the world's largest privately owned telescope'. A postcard was recently sold on ebay (not to me); but I saved the image & posted it: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/rangefinder.Katoomba.NSW.Australia.dup.jpg ===================================================== Subject: Another big reflecting bino telescope From: "Gene A. Lucas" Here is a link to a very large (510mm, or 20 inch aperture) reflecting binocular telescope. http://deepsky.cia.com.au/binoculars/clive/510mm_binoculars.html Of course, many similar binocular telescope projects come to light from time to time, including some with motorized chairs to carry the observer....Is there interest on the Bino List about these projects? A member of my other club (Saguaro Astronomy Club, SAC), Steve Dodder, is restoring the 8 inch (203 mm) f:5 binocular observing chair constructed by the late Pierre Schwaar. Here are some links: Steve Dodder's pages http://www.stargazing.net/Astroman/contents.html Schwaar Bino Chair restoration project: http://www.stargazing.net/astroman/atm/binocularchair.html Pierre observing with the 8 inch bino chair at RTMC 1991: http://www.rtmcastronomyexpo.org/archives/photos/91RTMC06.jpg http://www.rtmcastronomyexpo.org/archives/photos/91RTMC07.jpg Gene Lucas (17250) =================================================== Subject: Russian 6x30 From: Tom and Monica Body The 1940r means it was made in 1940: the r stands for 'gorod' which means year in Russian. The r is g in the cyrillic alphabet. All the best. Tom Body Victoria, BC, CANADA --------------- From: "Gene A. Lucas" Subject: More on Russian 6x30 binoculars Attached is a Word doc file with pix of my Russian 6x30 binocular, indicating the layout and markings. In addition to the engraved marking "1940r" on the LH Prism cap, I discovered there is a raised marking molded into the bottom of the inside of the bakelite case, with the numbers "43" and "T2" in a semi-circular design. To recap some details on the Russian 6x30 binoculars: Approx. Weight = 1.5 lb (0.7 kg) (without strap, bino only) (note, this measurement made with a scale calibrated in lb/kg, not ounces) Approx. Height (top of eyecaps to bottom of objective cell) = 5.5 inches (115 mm) Approx. Width = 6.25 inches (160 mm) Case is "D" shape, molded Bakelite, with (worn) leather straps and elastic catch for hinged lid. There are rubberized cushion pads inside lid and inside case to accommodate prism plate shoulders (bino is stored eyepieces down in case). (See above and attached file for description and sketch of mark.) (Note, the IPD and focus adjustments will affect these measurements) Objectives = 30 mm, Exit Pupil = 5 mm Eyepieces are Individual Focus, Range plus and minus 6 Diopters (marked "5 + 0 - 5" on both eyepiece barrels) Total focus movement of eyepieces = 18 mm Deep black plastic eyecups. Diamond pattern knurling on eyepiece barrels. Military reticle marks in RH eyepiece. RH objective end prism shows some slight mottling spots. Prisms are evidently BAK-4 (round exit pupils). Well baffled interior. All optics appear to be UNcoated, slightly dirty but unscratched. Light colored Engraved marks on LH prism cap (top to bottom): 6x30 N55648 "Hammer and Sickle" design, with star above, two penta symbols below, left and right 1940r No marks on RH prism cap. Assembly screws are round head, with standard straight cross groove, one screw top and bottom on each plate. One screw on each end of hinge pin. Screws are slightly rusty, indicating no plating. (Screws on this example are clean, with no burrs, indicating probably no disassembly.) Engraved IPD marks on disk, eyepiece end of hinge pin, 56 to 74, nos. "60" and "70" LH forward bridge casting stamped, european style no. "1" RH forward bridge casting stamped, no. "7" Objective cells are not threaded on outside. Cast strap lugs on bottom of barrels (strap missing) Barrel castings - "Zeiss" pattern, doubled center round cylinders joined to tapered objective cylinders, flat on each end - are finished in black "leatherette". Overall shiny black finish. Prism caps and objective cells are brass, with black finish (scuffed on this example, revealing brass). Gene Lucas (17250) --------------- Word doc, with images, posted to: http://home.europa.com/~telscope/temp/RUSSIAN%206X30%20BINOCULARS.doc 279kb =============================================================== ================================================================ Binocular List #296: 06 May 2004 =========================================================== Subject: Rangefinder From: Well, I cannot beat that Australian rangefinder, but if anyone needs something of that size...mail me...I have a friend, who has 2 fairly large rangefinders. Basis 3 meter or so. Michael Simonsen Mikedenmark@___l.com ================================================================= Subject: Ruhnke From Deutsche Optik's forum: http://www.deutscheoptik.com/forums.php >>binoculars marked Ruhnke Fabrikal OR Televist 12X. Owner states he was told they were Norwegion WW11 period Posted by Bjørnar Aule on 05/03/04 Noregion Binoculars Carl Ruhnke 1874-1922. Founded factory for optic equipments in Berlin 1896.He also had a seperate binoculars factory. Carl Ruhnke was killed in a car accident in 1922. Ruhnke optik still have many branch in germany. ========================================================== Subject: Nikon Highlights in Nikon's binoculars and telescopes business 1917 Nippon Kogaku K.K. established, and development of binoculars begun. 1921 Mikron 4x15 and 6x15 compact binoculars manufactured. 1945 Conversion from military to consumer products, concentrating on binoculars production. 1959 Nikon brand name adopted for binoculars. 1964 Look 6x18 compact binoculars released at the Tokyo Olympics. 1976 7x26DCF and 9x30DCF, the first roof prism binoculars, released. 1980 The high-grade 10cm refractive equatorial telescope employing ED glass for astronomical observation released. 1981 Fieldscope released for birdwatching. 1983 Binocular telescope 20x120 III released for marine, surveillance and astronomical observation. 1985 30x80 II sightseeing binoculars released. 1995 Binocular and Telescope Products Division established separated from Ophthalmic Products Division. 1996 Full-scale overseas manufacture of binoculars started. 1997 8x42DCF and 10x42DCF high-grade roof prism binoculars released. 2001 Binocular and Telescope Products Division reformed as Nikon Vision Co., Ltd., an independent Nikon subsidiary. 2001-03-14 Nikon Corporation (YOSHIDA, Shoichiro President) will reform its Binocular and Telescope Products Division as a subsidiary company named Nikon Vision Co., Ltd., as a part of its going restructuring program. The new company will continue to do the business in the binoculars and telescopes fields, which Nikon first entered in 1917. Name Nikon Vision Co., Ltd. President OBARA, Riichiro Address Nikon Futaba Building, 3-25, Futaba 1-chome, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-0043, Japan Main business Designing, manufacturing, sales, rental, repairs, import and export of telescopes, binoculars, monocular, Fieldscopes, astronomical telescopes, loupes, microscopes, laser rangefinders, CCD camera system for Fieldscopes, night vision scopes, other optical equipment and related components Number of employees 45 http://www.nikon.co.jp/main/eng/news/2001/nikonvision_e_01.htm ================================================================== ========================================================================= Binocular List #297: 17 May 2004 ====================================================== Subject: Zeiss prisms From: Stephen Sambrook I wonder if any member of the list knows what type of Schott glass was used in the prisms of the first Zeiss binoculars ? Cheers Stephen ======================================================== Subject: Cases, Danish models From: I bought this bino "container" last week. http://www.geocities.com/mikedenmark/plc1/gummi.jpg It is made of brown-orange rubber, and although it is well made, I hold it to be something homemade. But am I right? It contained a "civilianised" 7x50 WWII german navy Porro 2 Binocular. If anyone has seen something like it, I would like to know. And a picture of two danish model 1915 8x40 zeiss binoculars. The black one was one of 25 delivered early 1915, and the grey one is a similar type, but refinished in grey after WWII http://www.geocities.com/mikedenmark/plc1/tilskaaret1914.jpg This model was discontinued at Zeiss in the summer 1916. Michael Simonsen ====================================================== Subject: Golf scopes, M19 From: gordiray@___t The 5 x 20 golf scopes ....are being closed out, replaced by in infrared rangefinder type. They have several uses in binocular testing and adjustment, at virtual giveaway prices. Army-Henson setups in particular, but with angular measurement capability also. Ignore the "yards" , measure the reticle from the front with a surveying instrument or with a milscale equipped sight or binoc, and convert to degrees(if desired). I always seem to not have my calculations at hand.( I am at a library) What is the story on M-19 "collimation"? Has somebody figured a way around the locked- in modular concept, with no adjustments Or, do they get a whole bunch of modules and just assemble? As you probably know, adhesive failure in the prism mounts caused the program to fail in the field. Ditto the (more primitive, non-modular) Katsuma (jb-7) Tasco, Baker, Swift, etc 7 x 50, and , to a lesser extent, 8 x 30. I could go on,but might get in trouble with ongoing relationships . Built-in failure probability of the brittle gray glue no doubt boosts future business, both civilian and military..( The M- 19 was a different adhesive). M-19 is well documented in old SPIE journal articles and publications. The failures were not ever mentioned there, to my knowledge. --Gordon Rayner ================================================================== Subject: supply problems About 25 years, ago, I bought a Mark 28 B&L in the box. It was marked 1942, and had a little handwritten tag on the glass, reading July, 1942. My father who was in the Navy from 1943 to 1946, served on the gun crews aboard American merchant ships. Throughout the war, he used binoculars lent to the Navy by citizens. This would seem to mean that while my glass sat on a shelf somewhere, for years, sailors were using inferior optics. To put it another way, production outstripped the ability to supply those in need, another examp;le of the waste of war. Arthur Tenenholtz =================================================================== Subject: New large amateur astronomy binoculars David Moorhouse; 16 Inch Binocular Telescope Page http://www.binoscope.co.nz/ Auckland, New Zealand ================================================== Subject: German 6x30 manufacturers during WWII: A list of factories producing 6x30's. Expanded from a discussion on Deutsche Optik's page, where 3 letter codes from existing binoculars were listed. Correlations of codes with factories is from John Walter, German Military Letter Codes. Some of these, such as fzg or erv, are 'new to me'. Leidolf was included in the list of military manufacturers. --Peter beh Leitz Wetzlar bek Hensoldt Herborn blc Zeiss Jena bmj Hensoldt Wetzlar bmk Srb & Stys, Prag cad Kahles Wien cag Swarovski Tirol cxn Busch Rathenow ddx Voigtlaender Braunschweig dow Bruenn, Prerau (Opticotechna GmbH) dym Runge & Kaulfuss, Rathenow dzl Oigee Berlin erv Fritz Hofmann Erlangen eso Rodenstock Muenchen fzg Feinmechanik eGmbH Kassel gkp Ruf, vorm. Schuetz Kassel rln Zeiss Jena Leidolf 6x30 Wetzlar: left side Leidolf Wetzlar inside a lens,6x30 Superleicht in a lens on the right side.nr 4517 on the hinge. ============================================================ Subject: US Government reports, listed on a commercial site http://www.stormingmedia.us/cgi-bin/keywords.php?keywordID=8451 BINOCULARS Click on the titles below to find US government reports identified by the key word or phrase BINOCULARS. Visual and Auditory Sensitivities and Discriminations - 03 MAR 2003 A Comparison of Visual Fields with Fixed and Moving Fixation Points. Volume II - SEP 2002 A Comparison of Visual Fields with Fixed and Moving Fixation Points. Volume I - SEP 2002 Diopter Focus of ANVIS Eyepieces Using Monocular and Binocular Techniques - FEB 2002 Construction, Delivery, and Testing of a Flow-Cell to Measure Adhesion Strengths of Hard-Fouling Organisms on Foul-Release Coatings in Hawaii - 11 NOV 2001 The Effect of a Monocular Helmet-Mounted Display on Aircrew Health: A cohort Study of Apache AH MK1 Pilots Initial Report - NOV 2001 Premotor Circuit Topology and Sensory-Motor Pattern Selection - 25 OCT 2001 Visual Search Performance in HMDs with Partial Overlapped Binocular Fields-of-View - JUN 2001 The Effect of Eyepiece Focus on Visual Acuity Through ANVIS Night Vision Goggles During Short - and Long-Term Wear - JAN 2001 The Effect of Helmet Mounted Display Field-of-View Configurations on Target Acquisition - SEP 1999 Rockwell VIPER: Precision Intelligent Targeting System for Conventional Military and Special Operations Forces - 17 JUN 1998 The Effects of Accommodation, Vergence and Pupil Size on Size Estimation - 15 MAR 97 Space Perception with Normal and Prosthetic Vision - 23 DEC 96 Visual and Auditory Sensitivities and Discriminations - 14 DEC 96 Human Off-Road Mobility, Preference, and Target-Detection Performance with Monocular, Biocular, and Binocular Night Vision Goggles - AUG 96 On the Physiology of Bistable Percepts - NOV 95 Synaptic Plasticity in Visual Cortex. From Synaptic Properties to Membranes and Receptors - 31 OCT 95 Video Method of Measuring Field-of-View of Electro-Optical Devices Versus Eye Clearances - JUL 95 Effect of Eye Misalignment on Ocular Dominance according to BCM and PCA Synaptic Modification - 30 MAY 95 A Comparison of Monocular, Biocular, and Binocular Night Vision Goggles for Traversing Off-Road Terrain on Foot - MAR 95 An Image Quality Analysis of ANVIS-6 Night Vision Goggles - DEC 94 The Effect of Binocular Overlap Mode on Contrast Thresholds Across the Field-of-View as a Function of Spatial and Temporal Frequency - SEP 94 Diffractive Optics Applied to Eyepiece Design - 1994 The Effect of Interocular Distance upon Depth Perception when Using Stereoscopic Displays to Perform Work within Virtual and Telepresent Environments - JUL 92 Appendix A: ARVO Paper. Binocular Viewing Mode Affects Spatio-Temporal Contrast Threshold - 1992 Factors Affecting the Perception of Luning in Partial Binocular Overlap Displays - 1992 Prediction in Gaze and Saccade Control - 13 MAY 89 Optical Tolerances for Alignment and Image Differences for Binocular Helmet-Mounted Displays - MAY 86 Comparison of Effects of Natural Tropic Environment versus Chamber Exposure on Army Materiel - JUN 1984 Horizontal Diplopia Thresholds for Head-Up Displays - APR 1984 Depth from Edge and Intensity Based Stereo - SEP 1982 A Compendium of Aircraft Cockpit Vision Surveys, 1950 through 1980. Volume I - MAY 1981 ====================================================================== ======================================================================== Binocular List #298: 20 May 2004 ================================================================== Subject: Pentekarem prism From: Bill Cook Hello Brethren: I need a prism (a good prism) for a Zeiss Jena 15 x 50 Pentekarem, and some of the people listed by Zeiss as doing Jena work--and having parts--actually have their work done here. Thus, I am looking for a source NOT on their list. Please help. Kindest Regards, Bill PS Does anyone know where Hardie, from ZV Service went? Did he retire? Pass away? Go to work for Jason? etc.? =============================================================== Subject: Zeiss prisms From: "Steve Stayton" >I wonder if any member of the list knows what type of Schott glass was used >in the prisms of the first Zeiss binoculars ? Early Zeiss porro prisms: A 1902 publication, Jena Glass and Its Scientific and Industrial Applications, by Dr. H. Hovestadt catalogs the then standard "Jena Glasses" (later to be known as Schott glass). The most likely candidate glass used by Zeiss for porro prisms used in binoculars is Jena catalog number O.144 Boro-Silicate Crown. The listed catalog glass properties for O.144 are: ND (589.3nm) = 1.5100 Abbe v number = 64.0 (based on ND, F, C at 589.3, 486.2, and 656.3 wavelengths) Density = 2.47 Exceptionally hard, very colourless. ************************* This glass is running number 5 in the catalog list of the first 44 Jena glasses that date to a 1886 catalog listing according to Hovestadt. This early Jena glass type O.144 would appear to be very similar in properties to the later Schott glass type BK1. Measurements that I made a few years ago on a ca.1900 Zeiss Feldstecher porro prism (kindly supplied by Jack Kelly, thanks Jack) and a Bausch & Lomb Zeiss Stereo Field Glass porro prism from the same era were as follows: Zeiss: ND = 1.5110 Abbe v number = 66.4 Specific gravity = 2.47 ************************* Bausch & Lomb Zeiss: ND = 1.5109 Abbe v number = 66.6 Specific gravity = 2.47 ************************* These values are closer to the Jena type O.144 glass than to other glasses in the 1902 publication and I believe that is in fact the exact type used for both of these prisms. The slight discrepancy in dispersion values (Abbe v number) is probably due to accuracy limitations in my measurement wavelengths. Someday I plan to repeat these measurements with a higher accuracy setup. Note that modern Schott glass catalogs use a different wavelength for the nominal index of refraction measurement, Nd at 587.56nm Yellow Helium line, but the same wavelengths at F and C. If anyone else has other data or measurements please let us know. Steve Stayton ============== Subject: Zeiss prisms From: Abbe used the new "specialy light and clear" Boro-Silikat-Kronglas from Schott for the first Zeiss binoculars. Lothar Helling =========================================================== Subject: 6x30 codes From: "Prof GH Samuel" Fzg is not that rare a code: I have in my time seen about half a dozen 6x30's carrying it (and I own one whose optical quality is superb). However the serial numbers are always low: between 2000-4000. Other 6x30 codes not listed in your last circular are: clb: Wohler emv: Hertel & Reuss eug: Optische Prazisionwerke, Warsaw fvs: Spindler & Hoyer fvx: Beck & Sohne, Kassel jxn: Helmut Korth, Berlin I have personally seen 6x30 binoculars carrying these codes (or photographs of such binoculars). However by far the most common 6x30 codes are ddx and cag, but I have never seen these two codes on 7x50 or 10x50 glasses. Geoffrey Samuel =========================================================== Subject: Logistics From: As a kind of answer to Mr. Tenenholtz view on logistics. That is a classical dilemma...If you plan perfectly, everybody will have the best possible equipment at the appropiate time. Only planners are human, and the world is too complex to be planned for. In economics, I have heard it described as the inner friction of the system. Friction is loss of energy and loosing something puts you at a disadvantage. All you can do is minimize the loss as much as possible. From a collectors viewpoint, I am strongly FOR such losses...!!! If it wasn´t for this friction, which leaves planning debris on shelfs everywhere, I could never expect to find a Zeiss binoculars in mint condition. All binoculars would be in used condition. Besides, perfect planning would probably mean, that I could only hold as many binoculars as I presently needed in everyday life. Any extras would be a loss to the community. Or may, just maybe, the perfect plan is to keep me, and anybody like me, happy, which means, we will- or must have an appropiate access to binos we like or want. I am not surprised major business men takes lectures on philosophy. It sure do make a lot of sense. Just a warning: I know the above is flawed in several places...look for yourself. Michael Simonsen ========================================================= Subject: Various From: Peter Abrahams Another retail outlet for Nye damping grease is: http://easyweb.abtnet.com/inetisscripts/abtinetis.exe/ecproductlist@___?tn=1059_grease. tem This grease is quite expensive but when used in focusers, provides an excellent feel & reduces unwanted travel. Harold Richard Blackwell wrote on vision in the 1940's & 1950s; and is best known for a definitive paper on the adaptation of the eye to night vision: Blackwell, H. R., 1946. Contrast Thresholds of the Human Eye. Journal of the Optical Society of America 36 (1946) 624-643. I was looking for a paper on coronagraphs at the University of Michigan site, and found a series of engineering papers UM had posted on line. One of them was about vision & by Blackwell, so I downloaded it, and found some sections on very odd binoculars, including helmet mounted Galileans and the 'Feinbloom contact lens Galilean binocular'. A direct link to the paper does not work; you have to search for it at the link below; then it is easiest to choose .pdf download, which provides the paper in three sections. The second section, pp21-40, contains the binoculars. . Optics and Vision: Period 1, July 1955 to 31 January 1956. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan, Engineering Research Institute, Vision Research Laboratories, 1957. 30pp. 6.3 Binoculars. http://www.hti.umich.edu/u/umr/ ========================================================== ======================================================== Binocular List #299: 04 June 2004 =========================================== From: Finally, I managed to get a picture of a fairly large rangefinder... http://www.geocities.com/mikedenmark/plc1/Afstandsmaalerbangsbo.jpg 6 meter or 19 feet...the picture is a couple of years old, and I have asked for pictures of the interior, if possible... I don´t know if this rangefinder was placed here by german forces during WWII, or by danish forces after WWII. A lot of the guns it leads, are old danish ship cannons, made by Bofors in Sweden. I guess, this is too much for most of us. Michael Simonsen ============================================= Subject: UAD Co. Ltd. From: Peter Abrahams An inexpensive binocular, fixed focus Galilean, was made in red plastic, marked 'UAD Co Ltd; North Barrack Rd., Walmer, Deal, Kent, Tel 03045-2247, NOT TO BE TAKEN AWAY'. What were these used for? --Peter ====================================================== Subject: Steiner M22 serviceability From: Michael Zhou Has anyone ever successfully serviced the M22? It has been said that glued Makrolon is virtually impossible to disassemble, not to mention the difficulty of obtaining spare parts. Despite its few known quirks, its large oculars, long eye relief, supple eyecups, comfort hold, and excellent optical properties together still make the M22 one of my very favorite modern glasses. Unused ones are hard to come by and surplus units can suffer from one problem or another ranging from collimation, hazy prisms, N2 leakage, and abrasive grime build-up. If you do service it, or will consider doing so please let me know so I can pass your name along. Your comments regarding this subject are welcomed. Regards, Michael Zhou ================================================ Subject: Nye Lubricants From: geneharryman@___et Here is a URL for small quantity Nye Lubricants. I have dealt with him (Tom Madden) for some time. Very prompt and responsive. Gene www.lubekits.com ====================================== Subject: Web site. Military Binoculars: we see them, not the enemy... http://www.geocities.com/Pentagon/Quarters/2116/binos.htm ====================================== Subject: Re: binoculars fixture, collimation procedures From: gordiray@___t > I would be very glad if you were able to send pictures of the fixture you > made for binoculars without accessible cylindrical hinges to grab. I do not remember where it is. The construction used softpointed screws to locate kinematically, that is, without overconstraint, such that the only remaining degree of freedom is rotation around the hinge axis. But is was not a completely general construction, in that it was designed for a Trinovid 8 x 40, and just happened to hold the 10 a 40 Zeiss West construction. Retrospectively, it was too much work. Were I to do this type of work again, I should use source of parallel light, such as a target close to infinity, or simulating infinity, and swing the barrels against a transparent plate, such as glass or polycarbonate. The plate can be set perpendicular to the target with a industrial alignment telescope equipped with a front collar with a plane surface perpendicular to the line of sight of the telescope, or with an autocollimating alignment telescope, or with a adjustable weapon sight with a similar flat front collar-plate to set the line of sight perpendicular to the transparent plate on which the binocular fronts will be wiggled to find locations of the two optical axes relative to the hinge axis. The Fujinon UBMM is such a setup, in projection form. It uses a concave mirror as a source of parallel light. Several folding mirrors are used. Images of the target are presented to the operator on a groundglass screen, after passing through the binocular. Adjustments are provided to set the screen perpendicular to the line of sight to the target. If a projection method is not used, a comparator for simultaneous viewing of the images is required, such as a set of the various spans of the JTII "hand collimator"; or a low magnification telescope, with aperture greater than 75 mm,behind the eyepieces of the binocular;or a laterally sliding scope with reticle, such as the golf scopes of 5 x 20 and similar specifications. In such a sliding setup, simultaneity through the swing is possible only with coordinated movement of both hands, but is not an absolute requirement, as one can remember where the other optical axis was , in relation to the target, before the lateral sliding of the measuring telescope. With all of these, one can see relative image rotation, such as results from non perpendicularity of Porro prisms. --Gordon Rayner ========================================================== Subject: sale of Deutsche Optik From: "Mike" I'm pleased to inform you of the sale of my catalogue business and my resulting retirement. The new owner of Deutsche Optik is Lilliput Motor Co. (www.lilmoco.com) in Yerington, NV. They can be reached at 1-800-225-9407. The War Timers title has been purchased by Talkiing Rock Corporation (www.wartimers.com), and their number is 1-800- 225-9417. Our Deutsche Optik Service (optical repair) business will continue here in San Diego under the leadership of Alfredo Ortega. Its new address: 3366 Hancock St., San Diego, CA 92110-4304 with phone 619-491-9270. As for me, I can still be reached for the time being at mike@___heoptik.com, or via cell phone at 858-361-0484. Thank you for your many years of encouragement and support, and please accept my very best wishes for the future. s/ Mike Rivkin ------ Mike, everyone on the list appreciates the contribution that your business has made to our mutual interests. Don't let your hinges rust. Messages to Mike should be emailed directly to him, not to the list, please. --Peter & the list ========================================================== Subject: Glass From: Stephen Sambrook My thanks to those members who have provided information regarding the glass used in early Zeiss bino prisms. Stephen ============================================= ====================================================== Binocular List #300: 10 June 2004 ============================================ Subject: Binocular list From: Peter Abrahams This is the 300th 'list', from #1, March 1999. In a week or two, I will post the most recent lists in the 'archives', on the web site. (I am away at a meeting, 14-20 June; then on a family trip 1-6 July). In the last list, I asked a question about an inexpensive plastic binocular. A large number of replies were received, and I appreciate them. This makes me aware that there are quite a few people who will answer questions......when they know the answer. The reason we don't receive many answers on this list, is because no one knows the answers to the obscure questions. The field of study, 'history of the binocular', is still very unexplored. I hope we see more progress in the next half decade. We have a meeting in Koblenz, in September. There are no other meetings planned. We would like to have another meeting on the calendar, for the US and for other locations. Please consider hosting a meeting in your area. --Peter ============================================== Subject: Japanese binoculars From: Forslund@___ne.de I have just bought two Japanese binoculars issued by the Swedish navy. The oldest one is a Nippon Kogaku Nr.822 333 with rubber armouring only on the objectives. The second one Nr.865669 has full rubber armouring and is marked Nikon. I have always believed that Japanese binoculars were bought after the Zeiss-period to reduce costs. The Swedish authorities bought Zeiss 6x30B around 1962(army), 7x50BGA(navy and army) and 8x30B(coastal-artillery) probably in the 1970ees. Apparently the Nippon Kogaku is built at about the same time. I know that we have some experts on Japanese binoculars on the list; can someone give me the production years from the binoculars mentioned above? Regards to you all. Robert Forslund ======================================================== Subject: RE: M22 Serviceability: A paradox or just plain oxymoronic? From: Steve Harris The post by Michael Zhou in List #299 posed several interesting issues regarding the Steiner M-22. Whenever the dreaded topic of "M-22 service" raises its ugly head, I am always compelled to at least lend a few words of hope to those in dire need or at least advise them that there is only limited redeeming personal growth found in M-22 disassembly! It should be noted that my first attempt at cleaning the internal guts of an M-22 was my first and my last. While I was successful in my endeavor, it is not a task I wish to repeat. Special kudos and the elusive "Steiner White Glue Contortion Award" should go out to Mike Rivkin and the entire optical service crew at Deutsche Optik for successfully restoring hundreds of used IDF Steiner 7X50's back to amazingly good health. Since the DO optical shop is still open, I would give the good folks there a call at (619-491-9270) to see if they would be willing to accommodate "M-22 servicing" requests. Since I am pretty sure that Mike still has periodic nightmares of seeing a room full of techs toiling away with the removal of "official Steiner white silicone glue," maybe the master himself can lend some additional wisdom to this post. A quick look at the issues............................................. The Hazy Prism Issue: M-22's were supposed to be impervious to water in the "battlefield setting." Well, after looking through hundreds of surplus units, it appears that this was not the case. Moisture and outright water would usually find a way in, either around poorly glued Makrolon pieces or possibly through structural cracks. Usually, this condition was found only on one side of the unit. The unofficial battlefield "quick repair" was to pull the hinge and replace the bad side with the same side cannibalized from another unit (usually having the same problem). The bad side was usually scrapped or saved for surplus disposal, depending on the condition. The Collimation Issue: Collimation was not generally a major problem unless the unit had hinge damage from an accidental drop or started life deformed straight from the factory. When I did find collimation errors, I would pull the hinge, and replace one side with another until the error was down to a degree (or two). Finding perfection (< 1 degree off) was pretty much illusive, so there really is some point of no return with this glass. But, I am sure that some of the OM's out there might have special tricks and techniques to rectify the impossible. The N2 Leakage Issue: I really question how well the nitrogen held within the M-22 body. Using silicon glue as a quasi-structural component for the body's integrity is not the most reassuring design concept. My best guess is that N2 leakage would have been fairly common in all the binoculars, especially over a period of years. This logic also goes for the purge space between the objective and the laser filter. The Parts Issue: Finding parts for the M-22 is not a major concern. Glass can still be obtained from Pioneer and many external parts and rubber armor can still be purchased through Optic Options, at 1-800-872-0273. Visit (http://www.binocularsource.com). Laser filter replacements are no longer available. The Abrasive Grime Build-Up Issue: (The following process can be used to safely clean, renew, and protect rubber armor on any binocular, but this works like magic on an M-22!) As far a cleaning the naturally porous and sticky rubber found on the M-22, I tested and tried several dozen products over countless months with little success. Finally my trusty BMW mechanic suggest that I try a product called Castrol Super Clean (http://www.castrolusa.com/products/product_questions.asp?product_id=44&product_categor y=6). He claimed it was the "end all" cleaner for his big rubber "o" rings and other assorted grimy rubber products. This product can usually be found at WalMart or Pep Boys. Castrol Super Clean should be used with utmost care, as it is a highly alkaline detergent that is solvent based. The product is not friendly toward old paint or skin. Rubber gloves are mandatory. It also would be smart to cover any of the optics or painted areas with suran wrap while using this stuff. Put some Super Clean on a rag and go after that messy green rubber. Once this product hits the rubber, the imbedded grime and dirt slides off like butter, and the original underlying factory rubber surface comes gleaning through. After wiping down the outside of the M-22's rubber, make sure and give it a second wipe down with a mixture of mild dishwashing detergent and a damp rag to get rid of any alkaline detergent residue. The green rubber will be factory clean after this, but a little bit on the "dried out" side of things. After cleaning, it is probably best to replace the natural underlying plasticizers and lay down some oxidation and sun protection, or your rubber will be back in dull shape after several months. The only product that I would consider for rubber care is Lexol's Vinylex (http://www.lexol.com/vinmore.html). Vinylex has the "industry reference" DH-60 UV/oxidation inhibitor and enough organo-functional silicone to bring things back to life, without all that greasy, artificial shine that you get from Armor All. While Vinylex may seem to be just another Armor All clone or substitute, it is a vastly superior product and chemically engineered with restoration and preservation in mind, rather than a gooey gloss. Vinylex is not always easy to find..........a list of dealers can be found here (http://www.lexol.com/dealers.html). There you have it. A few suggestions for parts/external care and a lead for internal repair. And just remember, if all else fails, you can always toss it in your recycle- able plastics trash bin! ------------ From: "deutscheoptik.com To: sapharris@___ink.net Subject: RE: M22 Serviceability Those things are indeed ugly to work on .. and believe our success stemmed only from a special version of the M-22 made for the IDF that had somewhat more accessibility than their usual unibody. Even those were troublesome, and we certainly couldn't fix 'em all. s/ Mike ------------- From: Steve Harris Note the preceding e-mail string from Mike. I do remember seeing many of the DO IDF bino's after the rubber had come off and noticed that the body was not the traditional M-22 unibody. The IDF bodies would separate into many parts, all held together by copious amounts of white silicon glue. Could the special IDF "easy access" model, possibly designed for some level of serviceability, actually have been a variant of the Military / Marine model sold around the world on a commercial basis? The M-22's I had were were all one piece, unibody, except for a bottom access plate next to the objective that could be removed (sometimes!). This plate was held on as well by copious amounts of white silicon glue and it was my access point to clean the prisms using a long swab and other custom-rigged wipes. It certainly was the most time consuming and intricate exercise in binocular cleaning that I have ever undertaken. I would hate to think of the amount of energy, effort. and cost that would have been required to replace a broken prism! As a final thought on this topic, I remember seeing many boxes of Steiner's marked "factory refurbished" at SWFA's warehouse years ago. I wonder if these binoculars were "refurbished" by just replacing a defective side or did Steiner actually have a repair person/group dedicated to the disassembly, repair, and re-gluing of these binoculars? The mysteries of the "Makrolon Menace" remain with us still. Cheers, Steve =================================================== Subject: Prism 12x From: rhanna I have here a pair of "Dolland, London Prism Binoculars 12x", circa 1900 (there was a Boer War provenance). The bodies are aluminium and have oxidised damaging the leather covering. They require restoration, but are complete and otherwise undamaged. Objectives are about 20mm. Free to a good home for the price of shipping. Robert Hanna =================================================== Subject: UAD binoculars ------------------ From: These binoculars are opera glasses from the UK. Even today you can find them. They are mounted at the back of the seat in front of you in a holder with a coin slot. You put a coin in it, 20 or 50p, and the binocular is released. Watch the show, put the binocular back and get your money refunded. The glasses normally have similar text to that which you describe and they are individual to each theatre. For a few pence each you can build up a fantastic collection !!!!!!!! The quality is rubbish(you can see better with the naked eye) and I would rather have my 20 pence back than keep the binocular. Gary ------------------ From: "JM" The inexpensive binoculars 'NOT TO BE TAKEN AWAY', are in fact opera glasses, put on hire in the theaters all over Britain. They were attached at the back of the chairs, and one had to put (I think sixpence or shilling) money into the container, to detach the opera glasses. After the 'show', You had to replace them into the holder. Kind regards, Jean-Marie Operaglassman (Jean-Marie sent me some images of older models of UAD binoculars, which I will try to post. --Peter) These are some pictures of opera glasses on hire in theaters in Britain, the'gold'- ones(inscribed : £5 reward for information leading to conviction of person found in unlawful possession of these glasses #01010092) (#01010092, has different writing : the property of U.A.D.C. Ltd. for hire in theatres only, must not be removed from the theatre, on one objective tube, on the other, £5 to £25 REWARD will be paid for information leading to conviction of persons found in unlawful possession of these glasses, and on the other side, persons finding themselves in possession of these glasses are requested to hand them to a police constable, or deliver them to a police station) around the turn of the century, the 'chromé' around 1920, the bakelite brown, somewhat later, and then the bakelite red or black, 'not to be taken away', that I used, to see the Black and white miinstrel show, in 1967, must be from the 1950's onward. If You want more pictures of opera glasses, not on hire, please say so. The U.A.D. company is still in business Kind regards, Jean-Marie Operaglassman ------------------ From: Lamburntash@___m UAD Glass. A cheap Galillean bakelite glass, available for hire in Theatres (Theaters in USA) by inserting sixpence in slot on the seat in front. Peter Lamb ------------------ From: Tvacani@___m The U.A.D. galilean glass was made for hire in the theatre you can offten see this glass in the U.K., the is a company near deal in kent called the london opera glass co in sandwich kent ,still going to this day. terry vacani U.K. ------------------ From: "Keith Shackleton" I have no knowledge of the company, but what you describe sound like opera glasses which used to be available for hire in British theatres. A small bracket on the back of the seat in front would contain the glasses and this was unlocked with a coin, typically a sixpence piece. NOT TO BE TAKEN AWAY was a reminded to the user to replace the glasses in the bracket and re-lock them in place at the end of the performance. I hope this is helpful. Keith Shackleton ------------------ From: Si It sounds like a theatre glass or opera, used theatres in England regards Simon ------------------ From: Fred Watson I, too, have seen one of these, but not for a long time. I believe they were provided in theatres, one for every seat, and probably chained to the seat in front! The one I saw was in red plastic too. Fred ------------------ From: "Jack Kelly" The red plastic binocular you ask about was made for theaters (or since they were in the UK, theatres). These were provided at each seat for use by patrons during live performances; opera glasses for the masses. Some that I have seen are marked with the name of the local theater. Regards, Jack ================================================ Subject: Glass From: Fred Watson > My thanks to those members who have provided information regarding the > glass used in early Zeiss bino prisms. Stephen I didn't keep up with the correspondence on this, but wonder if Stephen saw the early Zeiss Historica article in which John Gould described measurements he'd made of early Feldstecher prisms ("Turn of the century Zeiss binoculars in England", ZH 8(2), p.3, 1986). Fred =============================