Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. A coincidence rangefinder or coincidence telemeter is a type of rangefinder that uses mechanical and optical principles to allow an operator to determine the distance to a visible object. There are subtypes split-image telemeter, inverted image, or double-image telemeter with different principles how two images in a single ocular are compared. Coincidence rangefinders were important elements of fire control systems for long-range naval guns and land-based coastal artillery circa 1890–1960. They were also used in rangefinder cameras.
A stereoscopic telemeter looks similar, but has two eyepieces and uses a different principle, based on binocular vision. The two can normally be distinguished at a glance by the number of eyepieces, one for a coincidence rangefinder, and 2 for a stereoscopic one.
This is a great example of a rare and impressive optical instrument made during the WWII period by Wild of Herrbrugg, Switzerland, a premier optical company. It comes complete with the original carrying case, a ranging bar, the case for the ranging bar, and other accessories. The only thing really missing would be the tripod, which are hard to fine, as they were usually appropriated for other purposes.
The rangefinder still bears the original data plate giving the specifications of the instrument and other information:
80 cm a- instr
m / 41
Nr 596
WILD HEERBRUG F-12x
This indicates that it is a rangefinder of 12x magnification with a 80cm meter base length. It was designed to accurately assess the distance of enemy forces from the observer. It may have two eyepieces, but the left one is just for viewing the range dialed into the instrument, so it is definitely a coincidence telemeter type.
As during WWII Switzerland was "officially" limited to sales to neutral countries, this example was sold to Sweden, as indicated by the Swedish markings on the instrument, such as Höjdjustering (Height Adjustment) and Stängt (closed). It also has Swedish markings on the transit case:
FÅR EJ LASTAS
PÅ KARRA
SKALL BARAS
This translates to "must not be loaded on bag, must be carried", as it would probably be damaged, especially the leather case on the exterior with the cleaning and servicing tools inside.
The ranging bar is marked JUSTERVASTÅND 80-100m (Adjustable distance 80-100m) on the end, with WILD 80cm m/41 194 on the central portion. The optics are fully clear, and enable the ranging bar to be positioned correctly in relation to the range finder.
The Rangefinder itself is beautifully painted in the original green color and measures 36” in overall length, the measurement from lens center to lens center is 80cm, as specified. It still has the original textured covering on the barrel, which is often lost, and both handles are present and fold out. The original sling is still installed, and the eyepiece cover is still present as well, and fully functional. The optics are still clear, and it really is in great shape, as is the included ranging bar, which is in close to unissued condition. The cases for both due show wear, having protected their contents for decades.
A wonderful example and comes more than ready for further research and display.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon
