Antique French La Reine Paris
c.1910 pre-war binoculars
with the original leather case.
Includes removable brass
sunshades (lens hoods).
They are marked "La Reine Paris" around the
front eyepieces (pic #10).
Except for some minor dirt and dust inside,
the lenses are clear and sharp. The focus is
smooth and sharp. They are easy to adjust
and produce a bright image. Amazing after 110 years!
I see no mold, fungus, or significant cleaning
marks. There is some edge discoloration
on one of the front elements but it doesn't
detract from the view.
*Smoke and pet-free home - no musty smells, super clean.
***Some background. I acquired these from the
original owner's family. They were issued to the
grandfather during the First World War in around
1917. He was an American officer serving
in the Army stationed in France. Binoculars
were in short supply so he happened upon this
pair which they (and I) believe were made
anywhere between the start of the century up
to the start of the war. They have no military
markings so it's unlikely that they were issued
by the military.
After the war, Mr. Coogan brought the binoculars
back home to New York where they stayed and were
regularly used by him and then passed down
to the father and then to the son whom I acquired these
from. The family has asked me to help pass them along to
the next family and collector. True story and over the
years I have sold many items for the family.
I think they look perfect - the patina is gorgeous and
the bits of brassing just make them that much more appealing.
The leather case is fully lined and is still solid and
functional. It is missing its straps and the hinged
leather gave out a long time ago. These are easy to restore.
The lens hoods can be put back on by simply removing (unscrewing)
the large front lens group and then sliding the hood
on the barrel.
I mail daily!
***Celebrating over 5 years of selling on Etsy!
Thanks for stopping by! - Chris
1 business day
I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Just contact me within: 7 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 14 days of delivery
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Yes, just let us know and we'll work something out. No need to pay for shipping more than once.
Yes, but with some exceptions. No returns on custom-made items. Part two - we will gladly accept a return within 14 days as long as it is returned to us in the same condition as when we sent it to you. Specifically, if an item is new and unused and in its original box and packaging it must be returned in an unused and unopened condition. Vintage and classic cameras, lenses, and certain pieces of vintage photogear carry no warranties or guarantees. By their very nature, older cameras are just that, old, and their electronics, levers, knobs, buttons, and dials can fail at any time. Let us know if you are returning something, maybe we can reach an agreement short of a full return. Part three - you will always pay for return shipping. Thanks
Always! Carol and I take great care (and pride) in packaging your purchase. We are mindful of being "green" but often times green doesn't protect your package properly. We have been shipping items safely since 2003. We must say, however, that we are not responsible for mishandling by the carrier(s) or loss of an item. Most items and especially valuable items will always have insurance added.
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