Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent original set of German WWII Hensoldt-Wetzlar 7x56 Nacht-Dialyt military binoculars complete with their original leather neck strap and a black leather carrying case dated 1944. Commonly nicknamed “ice cream cone” binoculars by collectors due to their distinctive tapered shape, the 7x56 Nacht-Dialyt is one of the most recognizable and desirable German optical designs of the period.

The binoculars are marked:

bmj 490659
7 x 56

The three-letter manufacturer code bmj identifies Hensoldt & Söhne Optische Werke A.G. of Wetzlar, Germany. German military manufacturers increasingly used coded markings during WWII in place of their full company names. Surviving Hensoldt 7x56 binoculars with serial numbers in this range are generally associated with approximately 1942–1943 production.

The 7x56 designation indicates seven-power magnification with 56mm objective lenses. The large objectives provided excellent light-gathering capability, making this model particularly effective in dim conditions and helping give rise to the Nacht-Dialyt, or “night Dialyt,” designation.

The unusual tapered body was lightweight compared with many conventional military binoculars of similar size. These Hensoldt roof-prism binoculars are known to have been used by German military personnel, including officers and armored vehicle crews, although this particular set cannot be attributed to a specific branch or individual.

Both individual eyepieces retain their diopter focus adjustments. The controls move smoothly, and the optics remain mostly clear and usable with only a small amount of internal fogging. No claim is made that the binoculars have been professionally cleaned, serviced, or optically calibrated.

The black exterior finish remains attractive overall. There is scattered oxidation on the exposed lightweight metal fittings where portions of the finish have lifted, together with expected scratches, handling wear, and age-related surface deterioration. This type of oxidation is commonly encountered on these lightweight Hensoldt binocular bodies.

The original leather neck strap remains attached and is notably supple, showing only minimal age and service wear. Original straps are often missing, damaged, or replaced, making its survival an appealing feature.

Also included is a fine black leather carrying case with a wood-lined lid. The interior of the lid originally provided fitted storage positions for spare colored filters, which are no longer present.

The spring-loaded catch is marked: frn 42

The code frn identifies the metal fitting manufacturer Rudolf Lang of Brandenburg an der Havel, while 42 indicates 1942 production of the catch mechanism. This date applies to the metal catch rather than necessarily to the completion of the entire case.

The catch retains its original pull tab, which is made from an Ersatz papercloth-type material rather than conventional leather. The tab remains present and functional but should be handled carefully due to its age.

The inside of the case lid is stamped: bmj 1944

This identifies the case as a 1944 Hensoldt & Söhne product. Although the binoculars and case are by the same manufacturer and are entirely appropriate together.

The case remains in fine overall condition with expected surface wear, creasing, and age to the leather. The wood-lined lid, spring-loaded closure, Ersatz pull tab, and interior maker stamp all remain present.

The combination of the scarce 7x56 Nacht-Dialyt configuration, clearly marked Hensoldt manufacture, usable optics, original neck strap, and maker-marked 1944 carrying case makes this a particularly attractive set of German WWII military optics. It would display extremely well alongside an officer’s field equipment, armored vehicle grouping, map case, or advanced optical collection.