Jules Huet & Cie (also known as La Nouvelle Maison Jules Huet Cie) was a prominent optical manufacturing firm, founded in 1854 at 25-27 Rue de la Grange-aux-Belles, Paris, France. The firm specialized in the manufacture of high-quality binoculars, telescopes, and periscopes for both civilian and military use.
The firm’s history is a complex evolution of several corporate entities and reorganizations. The company was active from the late 19th century through the mid-20th century, and is also recorded as beginning business operations in 1892 under other corporate names, including La Société Générale d’Optique (SGO) from 1913.
During the First World War, Huet manufactured instruments for the French armed forces, producing binoculars marked “M.G.” / “A.G.” (indicating use by the French Army’s Artillerie à Pied and Artillerie à Cheval).
In the armed forces of the French Republic, military service binoculars were marked with “M.G.” (Ministère de la Guerre — Ministry of War) to identify them as government military property.
The company continued to manufacture optical equipment for the French armed forces during the 1920s and 1930s.
Following the German occupation of France in May 1940, Huet factories came under German control. The firm produced “Dienstglas” (service glasses) for the German armed forces, marked, beginning in 1941, with the three-letter code “lww”), instead of with the firm’s traditional trademark logo.
After the end of the Second World War, Huet continued production into the 1960s, creating specialized equipment, including binoculars for the Marine Nationale (French Navy).
Origins and Early Corporate Structure
1854: The predecessor firm, Maison Clermont, was founded by François Alphonse Clermont at 114 Rue du Temple, Paris. The firm specialized in manufacturing sighting glasses, trench telescopes, and binoculars.
1892: Louis Huet took over Maison Clermont, renaming it Maison Clermont, L. Huet, Sr. Constructeurs. He diversified production into early cinematography, filing numerous patents.
1908: The business was reorganized as a limited partnership under the name Huet & Cie, Constructeurs.
1912: The firm became a public limited liability company (Société Anonyme) named Anciens Établissements Huet et Cie.
The 1913 Split and “Jules Huet“
In 1913, the company underwent a significant split, likely acrimonious, creating two competing entities:
Société Générale d’Optique (SGO): Located at 76 Boulevard de la Vilette, this entity retained the primary Huet brand and aggressively advertised “HUET tout court” (Huet plain and simple) to distinguish itself from the other firm. SGO manufactured optical equipment for service in the Maginot Line and to fulfill various other French Republic military contracts.
Jules Huet & Cie: Established at 27 Rue de la Grange-aux-Belles (with a factory at 184-186 Rue Saint-Maur). In the early years, this entity operated as Nouvelle Maison Jules Huet & Cie.
Military Service
First World War: Both entities were major suppliers to the French Ministry of War. Binoculars from this era bear the “M.G.” (Ministère de la Guerre) mark and codes like “A.G.”.
Second World War II: Following the German occupation of France in 1940, Huet factories were confiscated by the German government and used by the German military. Binoculars produced during this period were stamped with “Dienstglas” and, beginning in 1941, with the German three-letter code “lww” (identifying Huet). These were highly regarded by the German Kriegsmarine (German Navy), and Wehrmacht (Armed Forces).
Post-War: Production continued into the 1960s, with French Navy (DCAN) binoculars dated up to 1960.
Distinction from Domaine Huët
It is important to distinguish Jules Huet & Cie (the optical manufacturing company) from Domaine Huët (the wine producing company). Domaine Huët is a wine producing estate in the Loire Valley founded in 1928 by Victor Huët, a former Parisian bistro owner. The two entities are unrelated.
Military service binoculars were issued to soldiers with specialized functions. For example, group leaders and artillery observers were issued military service binoculars to perform their duties.
The most common types of service glass were the 6×24 and the 8×30.
The number “6” or “8” identifies the magnification power (“6” indicates that objects appear six times closer, and “8” indicates that objects appear eight times closer, than their actual distance).
The number “30” identifies the diameter in millimeters of the front (objective) lenses — the light gathering lenses — in this case 30 millimeters in diameter.
Unlike civilian versions of binoculars, military service binoculars have a graduated rangefinder in the right prism housing.
“Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering)
In Germany in the 1930s, an early type of black plastic synthetic leather called “Vulkanite” was used as the body covering of military and commercial Dienstgläser (service glasses) manufactured before the Second World War.
This “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering) was the most common Dienstglas body covering used by the German armed forces (and also by most of the other armed forces of Europe) during the early years of the Second World War.
TM 30-506, WAR DEPARTMENT TECHNICAL MANUAL, GERMAN-ENGLISH MILITARY DICTIONARY, WAR DEPARTMENT, 20 MAY I944
The TM 30-506 manual describes “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering) as “Kunstleder n” artificial leather.
Schwarz „Reis“ Raulack (black “rice” rough lacquer) Körperbedeckung (body covering)
Early in the Second World War, a black Rauhlack (rough lacquer) body covering called schwarz „Reis“ Körperbedeckung (black “rice” body covering) also became a common Dienstglas body finish.
This new Dienstglas body covering began to replace the black “Vulkanite” (synthetic, leather-like, early plastic) body covering material on the housings of German field glasses.
The particular consistency of this schwarz „Reis“ (black “rice”) Rauhlack (rough lacquer) Körperbedeckung (body covering) was achieved by mixing crushed rice or finely granulated cork meal with black lacquer paint.
This schwarz „Reis“ Rauhlack Körperbedeckung (black “rice” rough lacquer body covering) became the most common Dienstglas body covering as the war progressed through 1942 and 1943.
BBT
Barbier, Benard, et Turenne (BBT) was a French company founded in 1862, specializing in the manufacture of spotlights, Fresnel lenses for lighthouses, and lighting systems. It was the world’s leading producer of lighthouse beacons from the end of the 19th century onwards. It was dissolved in 1982.
History
The company was founded in 1862 by Frederic Barbier and Stanislas Fenestre as Barbier and Fenestre. It was renamed Barbier et Cie in 1887 and Barbier and Bénard in 1889. It became Barbier, Benard, et Turenne early in the 20th century, and became a public limited liability company in 1919.
Lighthouses
Barbier, Benard, et Turenne began with a specialty in the production of equipment for lighthouse beacons, such as Fresnel lenses. It later expanded into production of beacons themselves, as well as rotation mechanisms. Eventually, the company manufactured buoys, metal towers, and fog sirens.
BBT was soon able to build complete lighthouses, and became world renowned for it. It was the world leader in the construction of lighthouses in the late 19th century.
BBT used its expertise in optics, lighting, and construction to expand into other businesses, including stadium and airport floodlights and streetlamps.[3] It also license-produced microscopes.
Locations
The cast-iron tower and Hyperradiant optic for the Beiyushan Lighthouse, in the construction yard of BBT at Rue Curial, Paris
BBT’s factories were located mainly near the Ourcq Canal in Paris. Its headquarters was also in Paris. It had facilities in Nazelles (Indre-et-Loire) and White Misseron (Nord). BBT had specialist plants for the production of gas for streetlamps, at Sfax and Marseille.
The company BBT Krauss was formed in 1907 through the amalgamation of BBT (Barbier, Bernard et Turenne) and E. Krauss (Société des Establissements Krauss). Headquartered in Paris, the firm specialized in manufacturing precision optical equipment, including microscopes, surgical lighting, military optics, and binoculars.
In 1935, a fusion with Polish Optical Industries (PZO) occurred, though BBT Krauss continued as a distinct entity under the Huet partnership for certain products like binoculars.
In the 1960s, the company acquired the Vion company to expand its military and optical equipment production. The entire group was later taken over by CIT Alcatel to form their military equipment and laser telescopes branch.
Dissolution
From the 1960s onwards, the industry sectors in which BBT had invested, began to decline in France. The company was eventually dissolved in 1982.
Huet, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
6 x 24 INDIX Production Serial Number Series
The 6 x 24 Indix French military service binoculars, manufactured by Huet, Paris, were primarily produced from the mid-1920s through the early days of the Second World War.
Specifications: 6 x 24 optical power magnification with 24mm objective lenses, solid metal body with synthetic leather body covering, individual eyepiece focusing, and a 4mm exit pupil, approximately 150mm x 100mm x 45mm in size, weighing between 517g and 550g, typically with 8.5 degree (approx. 150m at 1000m) field of view.
Historical Context: 6 x 24 Indix military service binoculars were of robust build, and high quality optical clarity. They were widely issued to military forces of the French Republic and the British Indian Army. Early military versions included a micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in the right lens for height measurements or IPD adjustment, a feature common in inter-war French optical equipment.
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 1711, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 1711, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 1711” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 4584, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 4584, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 4584” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 5254, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 5254, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 5254” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 14208, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 14208, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 14208” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 21394, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 21394, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 21394” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 21485, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 21485, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 21485” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 40358, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 40358, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 40358” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 41106, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars wwith micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 41106, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 41106” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 43645, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars wwith micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 43645, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 43645” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6 × 24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Bandoulière (carrying strap).
HUET French Republic contract
6 × 24 INDIX, MG № 44172, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars wwith micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 44172, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “INDIX” (HUET model name) / “6 x 24” (magnification power) logo, over “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 44172” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6 × 24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Bandoulière (carrying strap), and brown leather case with strap (Étui en cuir marron avec bandoulière).
Huet, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
8 x 30 Mle 1930 Production Serial Number Series
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1930, MG № 2614, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 2614, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1930 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1930” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 2614” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1930, MG № 2770, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 2770, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1930 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1930” (Huet model name) “MILLIEMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 2770” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1930, MG № 3217, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 3217, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1930 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1930” (Huet model name) “MILLIEMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 3217” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
Huet, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
8 x 30 Mle 1935 Production Serial Number Series
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 11120, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 11120, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 11120” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 11331, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 11331, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 11331” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 14873, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 14873, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 14873” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 24324, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 24324, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 24324” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 42416, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 42416, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 42416” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 44828, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 44828, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “DECIGRADES” (angular measurement in tenths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 44828” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 97764, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 97764, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo. Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “№ 97764” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, MG № 210093, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 210093, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOTIX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo over “Mle 1935” (Huet model name) “MILLIEMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 210093” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and angular 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “№ 213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
Huet, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
Series 49
8 x 30 TRINOLUX / TRINOTIX Production Serial Number Series
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOLUX Mle 1935, 49 / 2710, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 49 / 2710, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “Grand Champ” (Wide Field) over “MILLIÈMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) 49 / “№ 2710” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOLUX Mle 1935, 49 / 3831, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 49 / 3831, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “Grand Champ” (Wide Field) over “MILLIÈMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “49” (series number) / “3831” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, 49 / 4725, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 49 / 4725, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “Grand Champ” (Wide Field) over “MILLIÈMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “49” (series number) / “4725” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOLUX Mle 1935, 49 / 4726, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 49 / 4726, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “Grand Champ” (Wide Field) over “MILLIÈMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “49” (series number) / “4726” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
Huet, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
Series 51
8 x 30 TRINOLUX / TRINOTIX Production Serial Number Series
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOLUX Mle 1935, 51 / 2466, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 51 / 2466, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “Grand Champ” (Wide Field) over “MILLIÈMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “51” (series number) / “2466” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
Huet, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
Series 56
8 x 30 TRINOLUX / TRINOTIX Production Serial Number Series
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOTIX Mle 1935, 56 / 15862, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 56 / 15862, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “Grand Champ” (Wide Field) over “MILLIÈMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “56” (series number) / “15862” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 TRINOLUX, MG 56 / 36807, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 56 / 36807, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “TRINOLUX” (HUET model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) “Grd. Champ” (Wide Field) logo, over “MILLIEMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “56” (series number) / “36807” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 56, MG 59 / 49339, 1935, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 59 / 49339, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) over “8 x 30” (magnification power) “Mle 56” (HUET model name) over “MILLIEMES” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “No. 59” (series number) / “49339” (French Republic armed forces property number). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo. |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8×30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8×30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8 x 30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8×30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8×30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
HUET French Republic contract
8 × 30 Mle 1935, MG № 213660, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 213660, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by HUET, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8×30” (magnification power) over “millièmes” (angular measurement in thousandths of a metre) over “1935” (HUET model name). Right prism cover marked in white with “HUET” / “PARIS” trademark logo over “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “213660” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
BBT-Krauss, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
6 x 24 Production Serial Number Series
BBT-Krauss Paris 6×24 military service binoculars, marked “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”, are vintage military optics manufactured in occupied Germany between 1945 and 1954. Produced by the German company, Hensoldt, Wetzlar, these military service binoculars were supplied to the French Army, likely as part of war reparations, and were used in conflicts such as the Indochina War and the Algerian War.
Optical Specifications: 8x magnification with a 30mm objective lens, a field of view of 150m/1,000m, and a reticle with graduated range finding scale in the right lens. Early examples were manufactured with a rotating graduated range finding scale. Later examples were manufactured with a fixed graduated range finding scale.
Physical Traits: Weighing approximately 490g, these military service binoculars feature coated optics and precise prism alignment. Early models (pre-1955) typically lack the partial rubber protection found on later examples.
Markings: The left prism cover is marked in white with the “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. The right prism cover is marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8 x 30” (magnification power) logo over the French Republic armed forces property number.
The modern international defense group, HENSOLDT (part of the Zeiss Group), maintains a significant presence in France through subsidiaries like HENSOLDT France and HENSOLDT Nexeya France, specializing in modern sensors and cybersecurity, distinct from the historical military optics produced by its predecessor.
BBT-Krauss, French Republic contract
6 × 24, № 53076, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 53076, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and angled 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by BBT-Krauss, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “6×24” (magnification power) over “‘Décigrades'” (angular measurement in hundredths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo “№ 53076” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property acceptance stamp over maker’s name (unreadible) over “SATTLER” over community (unreadible) within an oval, over the numbers “19” (last two digits of 1919, year of case manufacture).
BBT-Krauss, French Republic contract
6 × 24, № 53979, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 53979, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and angled 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by BBT-Krauss, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “6×24” (magnification power) over “Décigrades” (angular measurement in hundredths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo “№ 53979” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
BBT-Krauss, French Republic contract
6 × 24, № 55428, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 55428, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and angled 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by BBT-Krauss, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “6×24” (magnification power) over “Décigrades” (angular measurement in hundredths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo “№ 55428” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6 × 24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather carrying strap (Bandoulière), and brown leather case with strap (Étui en cuir marron avec bandoulière).
BBT-Krauss, French Republic contract
6 × 24, № 56125, Paris, France
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French Republic 6 × 24 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 56125, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and angled 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by BBT-Krauss, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “6×24” (magnification power) over “Décigrades” (angular measurement in hundredths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo “№ 56125” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars have the micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in the right lens, indicative of French military service binoculars of this era, but, unusually, do not have the “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) mark in front of the “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo and “№ 56125” (French Republic armed forces property number).
BBT-Krauss, Paris, France
French Republic Contract
8 x 30 Production Serial Number Series
BBT-Krauss, French Republic contract
8 × 30, № 22395, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 22395, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by BBT-Krauss, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8×30” (magnification power) over “Grand champ” (wide field) over “décigrades” (angular measurement in hundredths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo (Logo de marque déposée) “№ 22395” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 8 × 30 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather carrying strap (Bandoulière), and brown leather case with strap (Étui en cuir marron avec bandoulière).
BBT-Krauss, French Republic contract
8 × 30, № 33356, Paris, France
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, № 33356, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and diagonal 45 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1935 by BBT-Krauss, Paris, France for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “8×30” (magnification power) over “Grand champ” (wide field) over “décigrades” (angular measurement in hundredths of a metre). Right prism cover marked in white with “MG” (Ministère de la guerre, Ministry of War) “BBT” / “KRAUSS” / “PARIS” trademark logo (Logo de marque déposée) “№ 33356” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 8 × 30 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather carrying strap (Bandoulière), and brown leather case with strap (Étui en cuir marron avec bandoulière).
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 773865, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 773865, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) logo over “773865” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab), and brown leather case.
Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany
French Republic Contract
8 x 30 DIAGON Production Serial Number Series
Hensoldt Wetzlar 8×30 DIAGON military service binoculars, marked “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”, are vintage military optics manufactured in occupied Germany between 1945 and 1954. Produced by the German company, Hensoldt, Wetzlar, these military service binoculars were supplied to the French Army, likely as part of war reparations, and were used in conflicts such as the Indochina War and the Algerian War.
Optical Specifications: 8x magnification with a 30mm objective lens, a field of view of 150m/1,000m, and a reticle with graduated range finding scale in the right lens. Early examples were manufactured with a rotating graduated range finding scale. Later examples were manufactured with a fixed graduated range finding scale.
Physical Traits: Weighing approximately 490g, these military service binoculars feature coated optics and precise prism alignment. Early models (pre-1955) typically lack the partial rubber protection found on later examples.
Markings: The left prism cover is marked in white with the “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. The right prism cover is marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8 x 30” (magnification power) logo over the French Republic armed forces property number.
The modern international defense group, HENSOLDT (part of the Zeiss Group), maintains a significant presence in France through subsidiaries like HENSOLDT France and HENSOLDT Nexeya France, specializing in modern sensors and cybersecurity, distinct from the historical military optics produced by its predecessor.
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 718691, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 718691, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8 x 30” (magnification power) logo over “718691” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property acceptance stamp over maker’s name (unreadible) over “SATTLER” over community (unreadible) within an oval, over the numbers “19” (last two digits of 1919, year of case manufacture).
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 719557, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 719557, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8 x 30” / (magnification power) logo over “719557” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with maker’s name, “ERNST FÄSSLER” over “1940” over “APPENZELL” over vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sz” (Schweiz) armed forces property stamp. Appenzell, composed of two half-cantons, Innerrhoden and Ausserrhoden, is a glacial, mountain, forest region in northeastern Switzerland.
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 757188, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with micromètre orientable (rotating graduated range finding scale) in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 757188, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8 x 30” / (magnification power) logo over “757188” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with maker’s name, “ERNST FÄSSLER” over “1940” over “APPENZELL” over vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sz” (Schweiz) armed forces property stamp. Appenzell, composed of two half-cantons, Innerrhoden and Ausserrhoden, is a glacial, mountain, forest region in northeastern Switzerland.
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 759826, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 759826, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) logo over “759826” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab), and brown leather case.
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 769018, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 769018, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) logo over “769018” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab), and brown leather case.
Hensoldt, French Republic contract
8 × 30 DIAGON, 773865, Wetzlar, Germany
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French Republic 8 × 30 military service binoculars with graduated range finding scale in right lens, French Republic armed forces property number, 773865, heavy construction, made of brass, black hard rubber body covering, brass prism and objective covers, brass objective lens rings, eyepieces with diopter scale, and straight 00 degree knurling. Manufactured about 1950 by Hensoldt, Wetzlar, Germany for the armed forces of the French Republic. Left prism cover marked in white with “HENSOLDT” / “WETZLAR” trademark logo over “ARMÉE FRANÇAISE”. Right prism cover marked in white with “DIAGON” (Hensoldt model name) / “8×30” (magnification power) logo over “773865” (French Republic armed forces property number). |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab), and brown leather case.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1933, №10462, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№10462” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1933 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1933” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell” over “№10462” production serial number. Right front lens cover marked in white with “№10462” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap).
The brown Bakelit (Bakelite) Behalter or Köcher (case) is made in Switzerland, and is marked on the right side leather belt strap with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over the capital letter “A” all within a vertical rectangle stamped onto the leather.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1934, №9744, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№9744” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1934 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1934” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell” over “№9744” production serial number. Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property stamp, then “W. PLÜSS” over “Sattler” over “REIDEN” over the numbers “48” (last two digits of 1948, year of case manufacture), then “6×24.” Reiden is a municipality in the district of Willisau in the canton of Lucerne in Switzerland.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1934, №13560, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№13560” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1934 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1934” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell” over “№13560” production serial number. Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№13560” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Kern Aarau
6×24 1938, №17060, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№17060” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1938 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1938” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell” over “№17060” production serial number. Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№17060” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with inverted vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property stamp, over the numbers “38” (last two digits of 1938, year of case manufacture), over “W. GERBER” over “LENGNAU.” Lengnau is a municipality in the Biel/Bienne District in the canton of Bern in Switzerland.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1939, №18148, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№18148” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1939 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell” over “№18148” production serial number. Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№18148” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property acceptance stamp, over maker’s name (unreadible) over “SATTLER” over “ZUG” in an oval, over the numbers “29” (last two digits of 1929, year of case manufacture). Zug is the largest town and capital of the canton of Zug in Switzerland.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1939, unknown production serial number, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, unknown production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1939 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell” without production serial number shown below. Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over unknown production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with maker’s name (“CHR. MISCHLER”) over “SATTLEREI” over “– BERN –” within an oval, over the numbers “35” (last two digits of 1935, year of case manufacture) over vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property stamp. To the right are the numbers “854559” written in ink.
Bern is the capital of the canton of Bern, and is the defacto capital of Switzerland.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1940, №23105, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№23105” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1940 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1940” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№23105” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
Kern Aarau
6×24 1940, №23377, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№23377” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1940 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1940” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№23377” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letters “Sch” (Schweiz) armed forces property stamp, over maker’s name “F.E. KAPPELER” over “19 SATTLER 28” (1928, year of case manufacture, SATTLER, saddler, leather worker) over “PFYN” all within an oval. Pfyn is a municipality in the Frauenfeld District in the canton of Thurgau in Switzerland.”
Kern Aarau
6×24 1940, №23973, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№23973” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1940 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1940” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№23973” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab), and brown leather case.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1941, №28986, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№28986” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1941 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1941” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№28986” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Brown leather case with strap, marked on bottom with maker’s name “E.MUNZ” over “SATTLER” (saddler, leather worker) over “BÜRGLEN (Thg)” over “41” (1941, year of case manufacture), over vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letter “J” (unknown) armed forces property stamp. Bürglen is a municipality in the district of Weinfelden in the canton of Thurgau in Switzerland.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1942, №31433, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№31433” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1942 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1942” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№31433” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap).
Brown Bakelit or Presstoff (Bakelite) carrying case, marked on right belt loop with vertical rectangle containing the Swiss cross over the letter “J” (unknown) armed forces property stamp.
Kern Aarau
6×24 1942, №31464, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№31464” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1942 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1942” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№31464” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap).
Kern Aarau
6×24 1942, №31576, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№31576” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1942 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№31576” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Kern Aarau
6×24 1942, №31580, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№31580” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1942 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1942” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№31580” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap).
Kern Aarau
6×24 1942, №32315, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×24 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№32315” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1942 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1942” over “6×24” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “AR” over “№32315” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
The initials “AR” refer to “Appenzell Ausserrhoden,” the Swiss canton (half-canton) where the city of Aarau is located.
Kern & Co. AG, founded in Aarau by Jakob Kern in 1819, operated in Aarau for over 170 years before being taken over by Leica in 1988, and closed in 1991 or 1992.
The term, “AG,” is the abbreviation of Aktiengesellschaft, the German legal term for a public limited liability company or joint stock corporation. The term is derived from the German words Aktien (shares) and Gesellschaft (company or society).
The corporate designation, “AG,” signifies that the business is a separate legal entity owned by shareholders, whose liability is limited to their investment, and whose shares may be publicly traded on stock exchanges.
These 6×24 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Kern Aarau
6×30 Production Serial Number Series
Kern Aarau
6×30 1941, №1725, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×30 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№1725” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1941 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1941” over “6×30” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№1725” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×30 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap), and brown leather Okularshutz (eye piece protector) or Regenschutzdeckel (rain protection cover) or Benutzerkappe (user cap), and brown leather Aknöpflasche (button tab).
Kern & Co. AG, founded in Aarau by Jakob Kern in 1819, operated in Aarau for over 170 years before being taken over by Leica in 1988, and closed in 1991 or 1992.
Kern Aarau
6×30 1943, №3264, Aarau, Swiss Confederation
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Swiss Confederation 6×30 military service binoculars, with Strichplatte (graduated range finding scale) in right lens, “№3264” production serial number, heavy construction, made of brass, black “Vulkanite” schwarzes Kunstleder (black synthetic leather) Körperbedeckung (body covering), brass fittings. Manufactured in 1943 by Kern, Aarau, Switzerland for the armed forces of the Swiss Confederation. Left prism cover marked in white with Das Schweizerkreuz (the Swiss cross) over “1943” over “6×30” with “Kern / Aarau” at the bottom left. Right prism cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “Armee-Modell.” Right front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross over “№3264” production serial number. Left front lens cover marked in white with Swiss cross. |
These 6×30 military service binoculars are accompanied by the original brown leather Trageriemen (carrying strap).
Kern & Co. AG, founded in Aarau by Jakob Kern in 1819, operated in Aarau for over 170 years before being taken over by Leica in 1988, and closed in 1991 or 1992.