Description
An authentic pair of WWII Imperial Japanese Army 7×50 military binoculars, manufactured by Nippon Kogaku (branded “NIKKO / 日本光学”), the predecessor of modern Nikon and one of Japan’s most important wartime optical producers.
These binoculars were issued for use by personnel of the Imperial Japanese Army, primarily for observation, reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and battlefield coordination. The body bears the marking “夕航六” (Yu Kō Roku / “Evening Voyage Six”), which is believed to represent a military inspection, batch, or acceptance marking associated with naval or transport-related distribution channels during the war.
Technical Specifications
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Magnification: 7×
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Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
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Field of View: 7.1° (as marked)
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Manufacturer: Nippon Kogaku (NIKKO)
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Era: World War II period
This configuration was standard for Japanese military field binoculars and provided an effective balance of magnification, brightness, and wide field of view for both land and maritime operations.
Construction and Features
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Heavy-duty metal body with wartime military finish
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Marked with original NIKKO manufacturer stamp
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Fitted with original neck strap
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Includes original eyepiece covers
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Traditional Japanese military optical layout with central focusing system
The binoculars exhibit solid wartime construction, reflecting Nippon Kogaku’s reputation for producing high-quality optical instruments for military use throughout the 1930s and 1940s.
Condition
This example shows significant field use, consistent with active wartime service:
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Noticeable exterior wear from handling and deployment
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Patina and finish loss in high-contact areas
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Optics show age-related wear (typical for combat-used examples)
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One eyepiece standoff is missing, affecting original completeness but not overall historical integrity
Despite wear, the binoculars retain their essential components and original accessories, making them a desirable and honest service-used artifact.
Historical Significance
During World War II, Nippon Kogaku supplied large quantities of binoculars and optical equipment to Japanese Army and Navy units. These instruments were vital for:
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Battlefield observation
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Forward reconnaissance
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Coastal and maritime surveillance
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Artillery fire adjustment
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Command and control operations
Many surviving examples were heavily used, and complete sets with original straps and covers are increasingly scarce.
Summary
This is a genuine WWII-era Imperial Japanese Army 7×50 binocular set by Nippon Kogaku, featuring original accessories, clear military markings, and authentic service wear. Although missing one eyepiece standoff, it remains a historically important and highly collectible example of Japanese wartime optical equipment, suitable for advanced militaria collections or museum-style displays.
