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Binocular Periscope
Carl Zeiss
Circa 1965
This exceptional binocular periscope, crafted by the renowned Carl Zeiss optical works, represents the pinnacle of mid-20th century German precision engineering and optical innovation. Used during the height of the Cold War to look over the Berlin Wall, this instrument's 10x magnification capability paired with its substantial 50mm objective lens delivers exceptional image clarity and brightness, even in low light.
Founded in Jena, Germany, in 1846, Carl Zeiss revolutionized optical instruments, earning a reputation for groundbreaking advancements in microscopes, cameras and military optics. By World War I, the company had become one of the most important camera producers in the world, pioneering technologies that remain influential today. After World War II, Soviet forces seized Zeiss’ engineering plans, allowing them to lay the foundation for Russia’s optical industry. Mid-century Soviet optics were direct reproductions of Zeiss designs, making original German-engineered pieces like this periscope exceptionally desirable. The Pentax tripod is a later addition.
Stamped "Carl Zeiss / 2313"
75" high x 26" diameter
Carl Zeiss Cold War Binocular Periscope
$18,500.00
Carl Zeiss
Circa 1965
This exceptional binocular periscope, crafted by the renowned Carl Zeiss optical works, represents the pinnacle of mid-20th century German precision engineering and optical innovation. Used during the height of the Cold War to look over the Berlin Wall, this instrument's 10x magnification capability paired with its substantial 50mm objective lens delivers exceptional image clarity and brightness, even in low light.
Founded in Jena, Germany, in 1846, Carl Zeiss revolutionized optical instruments, earning a reputation for groundbreaking advancements in microscopes, cameras and military optics. By World War I, the company had become one of the most important camera producers in the world, pioneering technologies that remain influential today. After World War II, Soviet forces seized Zeiss’ engineering plans, allowing them to lay the foundation for Russia’s optical industry. Mid-century Soviet optics were direct reproductions of Zeiss designs, making original German-engineered pieces like this periscope exceptionally desirable. The Pentax tripod is a later addition.
Stamped "Carl Zeiss / 2313"
75" high x 26" diameter