Leitz Wetzlar 7x50 BEH WW2 German U-Boat Kriegsmarine Binoculars original strap

In good used condition for the age. The vision is good and very usable, with only very feint cloudiness. There are a few marks and signs of wear (see Photos). Based on the serial number of 448294, relative to other examples, they were likely produced in 1944. These binoculars were produced by BEH (Ernst Leitz Wetzlar) in 1944 Mod. Type II Teilweise Gummiarmierung, supplied to personnel embarked on U-Boots of the Kriegsmarine. This model of binoculars was made in two versions: the model with the "dryers" which is known for having total protective rubber armor (type I) and this model which has special features (type lI) which are: - The eyepieces with knurled ring (similar to the 7x50 BEH KF model with a different numerical scale for focusing) this model in fact has only the symbols +, 0 and No rubber coating. The differences found on these binoculars is due to specific technical requirements plus continuous bombings of German industry, which often meant incomplete and non-linear production in order to try to provide kriegsmarine orders for optics.

Collimated optics, wide and with good visibility. It comes with an original strap and a replacement Ross leather binoculars case. The leather case itself needs some attention, but it's a good fit for the binoculars and works as is. And a bit more bumf on these binoculars...

World War II Leitz Porro II 7X50 binoculars (called "tuna cans" by the Germans) are serial numbered at least 238203 - 474439 (however, this is not sequential because other model Leitz binoculars have been seen also manufactured and serial numbered within this range) and can generally be divided into three types. Leitz Wetzlar Marked-Serial # Range at least 238203 - 310223.

This type also has a Kriegsmarine eagle marking and usually does not have coated optics. Ii "beh" Marked without Rubber Armour, Serial # Range at least 328770. Earlier examples of this type are marked "T" indicating coated optics with a Kriegsmarine eagle. Later examples beginning with at least serial # 431583 do not have these two markings but still have coated optics and additionally have housings for silica gel desiccant cartridges on the prism plates.

Also, the covering plates with markings which were screwed atop the prism plates on earlier versions are no longer present and the large rings securing the prism plates previously hidden by the covering plates are now visible.

---