Binoculars
Take Aim at History, With Our Vintage WWII Naval Binoculars
Mar
There are no great men, just great circumstances, and how they handle those circumstances will determine the outcome of history. — Fleet Adm. William “Bull” Halsey, USN
Mission Objective: Own An Original Naval Relic From Man’s Greatest Conflict
Your living- or workspace is transformed into a centerpiece of history with our original, fully operational, World War II naval binoculars. Their sleek design adds an artistic and martial element to any space. These precision instruments are made of military grade steel, feature high-powered optics, and are as functional today as when they served with the fleets of the Second World War. Models include originals in service with the U.S., British Royal, and Japanese Imperial navies.
The Battle of the Atlantic. Midway. Okinawa. House of Whitley Naval Binoculars lined the decks of warships on both sides of the globe-spanning conflict, providing intelligence and reconnaissance for officers and able seamen. Their components have been meticulously restored; the lenses and optics carefully calibrated to ensure viewing perfection. These binoculars are stunning to look at, and even more incredible to look through.
U.S. Navy submarines, primarily “underwater demolition units and submarine service personnel during WWII” (Stephen Rohan: “A Guide to Handheld Military Binoculars,” 2002), utilized 7 x 50 Bausch & Lomb binoculars that were mounted on the boats’ conning tower bridges. The bases of the binoculars were often very large, varying with the weight of the model and its other attachments, if any.
At the start of World War II, the Royal Navy was the world’s strongest navy, with the largest number of warships built—totaling over 15 battleships and battlecruisers, 7 aircraft carriers, 66 cruisers, 164 destroyers and 66 submarines—and with naval bases around the globe. As the saying went, “The sun never sets on the British Empire.”
Our binoculars’ rare precision optics perfectly captures breathtaking sunsets, spectacular horizons, and the blue majesty of the sea. These relics of man’s most epic conflict can be found in luxury homes around the world, and are highly prized by designers demanding a statement piece for unique projects.
The crisp angle of the mechanism’s eyepieces, the distinct shape of its housing, and the top sight-piece—which allowed for quick target acquisition, even in low-light settings—help to inform a riveting silhouette.
Other national navies and styles—including Space Age (1950s-1960s) models—are also available. Ask us about our selection of these functional works of art, for the ones that perfectly suit your vision. Call a House of Whitley consultant at 954-654-7739 to request more information.
