A HISTORICALLY INTERESTING PAIR OF 15 X 4IN. JAPANESE BIG EYE BINOCULARS, LIBERATED FROM SINGAPORE, 1945

the black painted tubes with sight adjustable eyepieces and quadrant operation, makers plate stamped ‘15 x 4° number 1266 JES’ mounted on bracket to metal tripod stand with calibrated mounting plate numbered 2318, approximately -- 54in. (137cm.) high

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Provenance: HM Naval Base,Sembawang, Singapore, recovered by Mess Secretary Mike Day at the British withdrawal, Christmas 1971; Mike Day.

The loss of 'Fortress Singapore' to a surprise Japanese attack in February 1942 was one of the most humiliating disasters in the long annals of the British armed forces. The Naval Base and the neighbouring official Residence Beaulieu House were a short distance from the shoreline and overlooked the Straits where these binoculars - on their original stand - were installed by the conquering Japanese occupants, in order that they could keep a watchful eye on the Singapore Straits, lest the allies adopt a similar tactic to re-take the island. The binoculars remained in situ until the British withdrawal in late 1971 and returned with the last occupant of the Mess buildings, Mess Secretary Mike Day, who had them refurbished in 1996.

Condition Report

No chips or cracks but viewed from the objective end, some elements could use a light dust. Finish is presumed to be later. One rubber eyepiece missing and the cuffs shade/splash cuffs are painted into place.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.