Japanese Vintage 20×120 Naval Binoculars with Illumination Control

Beautifully restored Japanese vintage 20x120 naval binoculars with integrated lighting for night-time use (chart + ocular illumination), a typical feature on ship bridge binoculars. 

An exceptional example of late Cold War optical engineering, they were officially issued to the Japan Defence Agency (防衛庁) in October 1984. Manufactured by Toko / Kowa (Tōkyō Kōgaku / Kowa Kōki) and supplied through government contractor Yonei Shōten Co., Ltd., these binoculars were deployed by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) for long-range surveillance and coastal navigation.

Designed for Naval Precision

Built for surveillance and naval navigation, this Type 2 optical system features:

• 20× magnification with 120 mm (12 cm) objective lenses

• 3° field of view, ideal for ship bridge use

• Integrated electric illumination for night operations
  – chart light + eyepiece crosshair lighting
  – illuminated azimuth ring
  – brightness-controlled via original toggle switches & variable resistor system

• Original brass identification plates and control panel with Japanese labels

Professionally Restored

This example has been expertly restored and polished, preserving its original mechanical and optical performance while enhancing its sculptural presence.
It is mounted on a rugged fixed pedestal and custom hardwood and aluminium tripod, also polished and lacquered to complement the cast aluminium body and bronze fittings of the binocular assembly.

The result is both an impressive visual statement and a beautifully preserved piece of Cold War naval history — equally suitable for collectors, interior designers, yacht settings, galleries, office spaces and private observatories.

Specifications

Model: Type 2 20×120 Japanese Defence Agency Military Binoculars
Manufacturer: Toko / Kowa (Tokyo Kōgaku / Kowa Kōki)
Issued By: Japan Defence Agency (防衛庁)
Supplier: Yonei Shōten Co., Ltd.
Year of Manufacture: October 1984
Original Use: Naval bridge & coastal surveillance
Optics: 20× magnification · 120 mm objective lenses · Porro prism
Lighting: Built-in azimuth scale & ocular illumination

Dimensions

• Binocular Length: 90 cm

• Binocular Width: 47 cm

• Tripod Height: 165 – 195 cm (adjustable)

• Tripod Footprint: 80 – 100 cm

• Weight: Approx. 47 kg (combined)

A rare opportunity to own a fully restored, documented and display-ready naval optical instrument from the late Cold War period.

Worldwide tracked delivery available. Get in touch for showings, additional images, or discussion.