The Kollmorgen 20x120 Mark I bigeye binoculars, meticulously restored by Luxxoptica, are not just a pair of optical instruments but a breathtaking fusion of history, craftsmanship, and precision. Luxxoptica's artisans dedicate countless hours to each piece, painstakingly restoring and improving every surface. The binoculars are polished to a brilliant finish and then plated in nickel, ensuring they retain their lustrous sheen without dulling over time.
These original antique binoculars showcase barrels cast in one piece, a design choice that maximizes rigidity and ensures optimal collimation even under the most demanding conditions. The restoration process includes a complete overhaul of the optics to their original specifications, performed by a qualified US Naval master optician, guaranteeing exceptional visual clarity and precision.
This pair of binoculars holds a special place in naval history. Salvaged from the deck of an American aircraft carrier that was decommissioned in Seattle in the 1960s after serving in the South Pacific during World War II, they represent a significant era of military history. Kollmorgen Optical of Northampton, Massachusetts, manufactured these binoculars in 1944, a company renowned for its expertise in optical technology since 1916, when it was tasked with designing and installing the first workable periscope on a U.S. submarine.
Originally mounted on a railing just off the bridge of a ship, these binoculars have been given a new life and purpose. They are now mounted on a custom-designed mount, transforming them into a piece of functional artwork, a blend of historical significance and contemporary aesthetic appeal. This transformation ensures that these binoculars will be a treasured heirloom and focal point in any setting, to be admired and appreciated for generations to come.
With a powerful 20x magnification and 120mm lenses, the Kollmorgen bigeye binoculars offer an unparalleled view, their optics in excellent working condition. These binoculars are not merely a relic of the past; they are a testament to the enduring legacy of quality and innovation that defines Kollmorgen and Luxxoptica's commitment to preserving the rich tapestry of our historical heritage.