Lot 226: A Collection of Binoculars and Opera Glasses Including Modern and Vintage Examples

A collection of binoculars and opera glasses of diverse ages and designs. The assortment includes a pair of large modern binoculars with a black textured body, featuring graduated scales on the eyepieces and an adjustable central focus wheel. These are accompanied by a fitted black hard-shell carrying case with a shoulder strap and snap closure. Also included is a pair of modern binoculars housed within a black soft-fabric carrying case; the case features embroidered gold-tone lettering reading VANGUARD. A further pair of modern, compact binoculars in silver and black metal is present.

The collection contains vintage and antique optical instruments, including a pair of mid-20th-century field glasses with a black textured body and metal hardware. Two pairs of antique opera glasses are included: one pair is finished with dark brown leather-covered barrels and brass mounts; the other pair features decorative mottled-effect barrels with silver-tone metal hardware. The eyepieces and bridges of several pairs bear various technical specifications and maker’s marks, although these are largely obscured by wear or are not legible. One pair of the antique glasses displays significant patina to the brass rims and surface wear to the leather covering.