Description

A fine and rare pair of patented Ocuscope, pierced/skeletonized, gilt brass, folding opera glasses in their original retail box from London. c.1920. Rare signature and address. A time of upheaval in the house of Chevalier.

Serial number 1178, fine overall condition of both the optical system (superb) and the brown, leather outer cover. Focussing is by a square nut on a shaft to a gear and sliding arm (awkward). Eyepieces retain original gilding with minimum wear of black enamel at the top. The oculars can be recessed and covered by pivoting protective caps. The ocuscope (patented) is opened by push button (automatic) and folded by rotating the T-shaped arm. The 3 cm. object lenses are a little dusty but bear NO scratches. Rarely used and rare skeletal design inside of a folding case (many bare examples). The workmanship is outstanding. 

Housed in it’s original hard card, reinforced box and retailed in London by T. & J. Perry of Regent Street. I could find no other example of this patented model with these features. Having such a low serial number, there are probably not many survivors.

Due to the upheaval with the Chevalier family around this time, the address of 27, Avue. de L’Opera is quite rare as well. The amalgamation of the houses of Chevalier (Monsieur ou Ingeneur-Arthur) and the Avizard brothers left bad feelings, bad business and ultimate demise.