French Military Galilean Binoculars by Lemaire c.1850
ABOUT
This is an original pair of French military Galilean binoculars manufactured by Lemaire in Paris France. They are marked on each eyepiece with "Lemaire Fabt Paris" and the company's bee logo. The objective lenses are 50mm in diameter and their optics are good. The frame is a black coated metal and the barrels are covered with dark brown leather. The black metal focus wheel works well. The binoculars have their original leather strap, but there is no carrying case. Overall the piece is in excellent condition with appropriate patina for its age.
- CREATOR Lemaire, France.
- DATE OF MANUFACTURE c.1850 -1900
- MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES Leather, metal, optical glass.
- CONDITION Excellent. With appropriate patina for age.
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DIMENSIONS H 6.5 in. x W 5 in. x D 2.25 in.
HISTORY
Jacques Lemaire began making military and civilian binoculars and opera glasses in 1847 and was soon a major manufacturer noted for using mechanization, division of labor and interchangeable parts.
If made for the American or British market, the words "Fabt/ Fabricant Paris" have been translated to “Made in France” on the central brace and indicate a date after 1891 or 1887 respectively.
