Choosing The Right Vintage Lemaire Binoculars
Antique binoculars and opera glasses provide a very literal look into the past. Vintage optical equipment was often made to very high standards from exotic materials, which is why it is sought after by collectors today.
Which Type of Vintage Binoculars Should I Choose?
- Opera glasses were used at the opera to see the distant stage better. These binoculars were designed to be seen as well as to see. Antique opera glasses were often made from mother of pearl or brass. Many opera glasses contain Galilean optics, meaning that they can be very compact as they don't contain prisms.
- Military binoculars and field binoculars were typically more rugged and more practical than opera glasses. Even quite early vintage military binoculars can include many of the features that we take for granted today, such as central focusing mechanisms and precisely-made lenses and prisms. In fact, it was Lemaire of Paris, France who originally developed the central focusing wheel.
- As well as binoculars, many vintage optics manufacturers also made telescopes and monoculars. Like binoculars, telescopes and other scientific instruments are very collectible.
Which Pair of Binoculars Should I Choose?
- Choose binoculars or opera glasses made from a material that you like. Part of the appeal of antique eyepieces is their exotic materials. Mother of pearl was especially popular, as were other exotic materials like enamel and abalone.
- Antique binoculars can sometimes be found with an original case. Original leather cases were typically made to the same high standards as the opera glasses themselves.
- If you want antique binoculars or opera glasses with historic value, you may want a pair with a known origin. Many manufacturers would engrave a marking on the antique optics. For example, Lemaire marked all of their opera glasses with a bee.
How Should I Care for Antique Binoculars?
- Like many antiques, vintage opera glasses can be damaged if they are stored in the wrong place. Damp conditions can cause glass elements to delaminate or grow fungus as well as staining mother of pearl. Keep vintage optical equipment in a place with a stable temperature and minimal humidity, not in an attic or basement.
- Clean antique mother of pearl and brass very gently. Using harsh chemicals on antiques can seriously damage them. If your vintage binoculars need to be cleaned, use a dustcloth or a glass cleaning cloth with plain water.
- Vintage glass elements need to be treated carefully to avoid scratching them. Storing antique binoculars in their case can help to prevent damage, especially if you also have lens caps for them. If they need to be cleaned, this should be done carefully using purpose-made lens wipes and cleaning solution.
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