Minty WWI Emil Busch A.G. Fernglas 08 Military Binoculars with Case

Description

11/4/26 - This is a near-mint example of WWI-era German military Fernglas binoculars manufactured by Emil Busch A.G. dated November of 1917. The finish on this set of binoculars is in near-mint condition, retaining almost all of its original finish and color.  The objective end of the binocular lenses and the adjustable binocular hinges both show hints of high-edge wear, but this is nearly all of the finish that is missing. The textured grips on each side of the binoculars, as well as the dioptre adjuster and twist-up eyepieces are in excellent condition. The ocular eyepieces are in excellent condition with no discoloration or damage to either eyepiece. The lenses show no signs of scratches or cracks and the optics are clear throughout. The bottom of the front hinge holds an engraved "K" under the right side of the hinge. On the front of the left side of the hinge bears the "11.17" manufacturing date, and the front tension knob on the hinge is engraved "Fernglas 08 // 105166 // Emil Busch A-G. Rathenow", but does show some minor finish chipping near the center screw. Both ocular twist-ups as well as the binocular hinges move freely with a smooth motion and good resistance. The leather neck strap attached to the binoculars is in excellent shape with no signs of any ripping, tearing, or separation. The binoculars come with a metal ocular lens cover which is fastened to the neck strap on both ends. The finish on the lens cover is in excellent shape retaining most of its finish and only showing signs of wear on the edge. The inside of the cover is lined with an ersatz panel to protect the eyepieces. This pair of binoculars comes with a near-mint ersatz and leather carrying case. The ersatz body, lid and baseplate are all in excellent condition with no signs of any damage to any panel. The edges of the case are made of leather bands, as it remains more pliable than ersatz, which is made up of layers of thinner materials (primarily paper) adhered together with a rubberized coating. Underneath the lid is a German instruction guide for use. The left and right sides of the case have leather latching straps with button knobs. The strap on the left side is torn at the button hole and the right leather strap shows signs of cracking, though it has remained in one piece with no tears. The belt loops on the carrying case are in excellent condition and have retained a beautiful dark brown color. Each loop is stamped "Emil Busch A.G. // Rathenow". A near-mint WWI Emil Busch Fernglas 08 with case, among the nicest examples offered. Overall this is one of the nicest conditioned pairs of WWI Imperial German binoculars you will find.