December 10, 2019 Edged Weapon, Armor & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/10/2019
Fascinating Imperial German naval-style telescope engraved with Kaiser Wilhelm II's cypher. Telescope measures 14" when closed and just over 21" when extended, with leather wrapping over half of its closed length. On the barrel near the objective lens is a large jeweler-engraved (2-3/4") cypher of Kaiser Wilhelm II and the Hohenzollern crown. The remainder of the exposed surface is silver with moderate age patina, though no silver content hallmark can be found. There is a "Made in France" stamp on the top ring, and the marking of "E. VION, PARIS" on the extended eyepiece sleeve. the objective lens diameter is 2-3/4", and is protected by a hinged black-painted lens cover. The very small eyepiece has an internal sliding cover which reduces the aperture size. The optics are very cloudy, and perhaps it is possible to have them taken apart and cleaned. Perhaps this is one of the many gifts Kaiser Wilhelm II gave out, or an item he kept on his yacht. CONDITION: Very good to excellent. WZ
Condition: Very Good - Excellent