1945 Bausch& Lomb Mk-28 style 7x50 w/Case and V.D. Filter: Cleaned & Lubed

Description

1945 Bausch& Lomb Mk-28 style 7x50 w/Case and V.D. Filter: Cleaned & Lubed. Condition is Used. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.
This has to be one of the first civilian versions of the iconic US Navy's Mk-28 binocular that was an updated version of the pre-war B&L 7x50. They increased its bulk slightly and added rubber gaskets beneath the prism covers as well as over the objective eccentric rings by which they are collimated. Hence this version of the IF 7x50 is far more weatherproof. Otherwise the same excellent bottom grooved Bak-4 prisms are used for outstanding views.
The left prism cover lacks the later added upside down squared off triangle with B&L inside. The right side does away with the naval mark designation over the Bausch & Lomb name and address that is also found on martial glass. Considering the Japs surrendered in September only after Truman modified his unconditional surrender demands, and allowed the war criminal Emperor Hirohito to survive and become a beloved icon of post-war Japan, means that this 1945 dated (via its serial#) binocular had to have been made in the last quarter of the final year of the war. And hence is one of the first civilian 7x50s to be produced.
I cleaned the insides of film. Left the excellent prisms sides alone in lieu of blackening them. Gave the Individual Focus (IF) Eye Pieces (EPs) a much needed lube job. All lenses have cleaning marks from the days when real men smoked and wiped optics with shirt tails. We now know better on both accounts. Doesn't effect views and I have many other military bins with far worse lenses in my collection. Comes with the territory and can always be rectified for a tidy sum of $$ when you have extra cash lying around. Meanwhile it is truly amazing just how much abuse bins can take and still yield great views and years, nay decades, of pleasure.
Comes with a nifty and kinda rare Beck-Lee Corp. variable density (V.D.) snap off filter. Like a set of Ray Ban Wayfarers for your Vin bin! This particular one works well and provides the same level of darkening as a set of the famous sunglasses. The left lens is stuck, thankfully, on the middle setting whilst the right works as designed and readily darkens to what seems like the hue of a welding mask. I would guess it was used to view the sun to see if enemy fighters and dive bombers were coming from that direction. A common tactic that blinds those without eye protection and allows better odds of surprising the enemy. With the right set to the same shade as the left the filter works great on sunny days and would make viewing over the water at high noon much easier. You can turn the right side darker and use one eye to still get a feel for what the unit was capable of. I have a few such units and have NEVER found a need for the darker settings.
Also comes with a HOOD rubberized case, sans its carry strap. These are incredibly well made and very tough cases that ought to easily last a century or more. I conditiioned the entire case, inside and out, with a rubber and vinyl automotive cleaner/conditioner. Has a nice carry handle on top and you could always add a strap.
If you happen to be the owner of a classic wood hulled motor or sail boat, this set was meant for you! The bin is waterproof and the case is about the best of its kind meant for the rigors of naval use. The filter adds a nice touch and is useful on sunny days, especially over water.
Satisfaction or request a return and cheerful refund within three days of receipt. We have sold binoculars world wide and stand by our work and offerings. We also love and collect these atavistic optical objects that we treasure and use daily.