Optical Instruments > Binoculars & Opera Glasses

Mini-Monocular French 19th Century Leather-Covered

Item#: OIB604

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This opera glass mini-monocular was made in France by Harweiler Brothers, working at Boulevard Des Italiens 6, Paris. The two draws were made from black painted brass and covered with black leather to fit a small leather case with hinged lid. Eyepiece and objective guards were made of black vulcanite (small crack). The monocular was made small to fit most purse sizes. It was probably hoped that the small size and black finish would make the monocular more convenient and less conspicuous against dark clothing worn by users in theatres. Magnification: X3.4; Objective diameter: 24 mm; Field of view at 1000 m: 100 m; Exit pupil: 7 mm; Length: 45 mm; Diameter: 34 mm. Provenance: Optical Antique Collection of the Nosch Family (Founder: Isidor Nosch - Optic 1861, Freiburg).