Flak 10 x 80 Binoculars

[AndyB2010]

Hi All,
I have just joined the forum as I am interested in binoculars. I am looking to buy some Flak 10 x 80 binoculars with Gestell 31 tripod and all equipment. I have looked on ebay for a while but the optics and condition are hard to assess so hoping that there is a collector / expert out there who can assist me.

Thanks
Andrew

AndyB2010

[Stew]

flakglas 10x80

Hello AndyB2010,

the post below started by coloradocowboy is a useful starting point on the weaknesses of the 10x80 flakglas.
The additional comments might be helpful if you are in the market for a flakglas and accessories:

FLAKGLAS:
(i) if the vendor does not comment on the condition of the optics - it probably means clean and colimation required.
(ii) if no comments from vendor on functionality of flakglas - probably means filters and interocular distance adjusters are locked .
(iii) do you have a preference for original paint finish ?Examine photos carefully because many examples offered have been overpainted by recent owners .

FLAKGLAS ACESSORIES:
(i) if you are planning to get the complete rig all at once check that
(a) the flakglas cradle has a functioning handle (often locked or broken off)
(b)The internals of the bearing circle and the vertical scale internals of the cradle can sometimes be locked up solid or badly oxidised
(c) you say you want to obtain a Gestell 31 tripod . (this was a standard tripod for the scissor binoculars and aiming circle ).The standard tripod is the aluminium Gestell 38. The G 38 often has missing parts and the individual leg height adjusters can sometimes be stiff or locked up.

I attach a pic of 3x flakglas rigs that are had a reunion last year in Auckland

Good luck

[behblc]

the advice given by Stew is very sound and whilst 10x80's are regularly seen on eBay the condition and prices vary considerably.
Always ask the seller to describe the binocular optically "back to front" - looking through it the "wrong way" against a natural light source so as to confirm that the prisms and lens are intact , also ask about fungal growth on the optical elements, "frost patterns" or "flower" type patterns on the lens which may indicate lens separation. Whilst separation is not fatal it does incur a cost to have it corrected.

As Stew said - ask them to confirm that all moving parts move without resistance and that the filter mechanisms work correctly, that the binocular focuses and produces a clear sharp image , ask about " double vision" or anything that appears "upside down" - you never know who has been "playing with it" in the past. ( Idiots taking it apart " to see how it works").
Ask if the binocular looks as if has been opened.
IMO if you are going to use it it is worth having it serviced very few are in perfect order after 60-70 odd years.

If the complete binocular is for sale confirm that all the mounting blocks are in situ , and that everything fits together correctly and that all adjusting knobs to secure the binocular into its cradle , cradle to disc and disc to tripod operate correctly.
If the battery box and lead are there that is often a good bonus.

In respect of cases - free from wood worm , that all internal parts are sound and in place and what is the condition of the lining like , does everything fit correctly into the case.

The one I have I bought in parts so to some extent I have been down the same road as you , getting a good cradle was the most difficult part , they are hard to come by and IMO a steel example is better than the Allu. versions.

In buying my binocular I was lucky it came with a good brow pad and the gent who sold it tome was very up front in telling me what needed doing - in the main this was the "curing" of lens separation in the front objectives.

Watch out for those that have received a horrible coating of hammerite green paint ,.

Best of luck
js

[AndyB2010]

Flak 10 x 80 Binoculars

Thanks guys for the advice to date - very sobering ! Looks like I need to buy from a Forum contributor and pay a fair price at that. Any leads on a possible vendor or on a reputable supplier.

Happy 2011 by the way.

Cheers
Andrew

Newcastle NSW Australia