DESCRIPTION
An exceptional piece of Cold War-era optical engineering, these vintage binoculars are a rare and fully functional example of the Japanese Type 65 naval binoculars, manufactured by Kowa Co.Ltd. in April 1984 for use by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
Featuring powerful 15x80 binoculars with a crisp 4° field of view, this twin-lens system was originally used for long-range surveillance and navigation aboard naval vessels. The binoculars are mounted on a fixed pedestal and retain their original electrical control box, complete with labelled Japanese toggle switches and a built-in variable resistor system. These controls illuminate the azimuth scale and internal range-finder crosshair, enabling night-time or low-light operation—a true testament to Cold War maritime technology.
Crafted from cast aluminium with bronze detailing on the lens housings and tilt mechanism, the set has been professionally restored and polished. It’s mounted on a matching Gigawave heavy-duty aluminium tripod, also polished to complement the binoculars’ striking industrial aesthetic.
Every detail—from the engraved manufacturer’s plate to the labelled control panel—reflects the craftsmanship and functionality of a military-grade optical device. Translations of the original Japanese labels are provided for authenticity and context.
This beautifully preserved set of naval binoculars is more than just a display piece. It’s a functional optical system with serious historical pedigree, ideal for collectors of vintage binoculars, Cold War artifacts, or maritime equipment.
Specifications:
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Magnification: 15x
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Objective lens diameter: 80mm
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Binocular dimensions: 50cm (L) x 36cm (W)
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Height (adjustable): 130–160cm
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Tripod footprint: 100cm
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Total weight: approx. 40kg
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Manufacturer: Kowa Co., Ltd.
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Date of manufacture: April 1984
This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a museum-worthy example of Cold War naval engineering. For further details or to see a video of the item please get in touch.
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions | |
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Height | 160 cm |
Width | 36 cm |
Length | Weight | 40 kg | Tripod Height | Tripod Floor Spread | 100 cm |
Origin | |
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Age | Vintage |
Country | Japan |
Manufacturer | Kowa Co. Ltd. |
Year | April 1984 |
Technical | |
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Materials | Cast aluminium and bronze |
DELIVERY INFO
Shipping Information
Free Worldwide shipping on all our binoculars. Delivered by tracked courier.
Estimated Delivery Timescales
Region | Delivery Time |
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UK | 3 working days |
USA & Canada | 5 working days |
Europe | 5 working days |
Rest of World | 7 – 10 working days |
Import Duty & Tax
Please note that orders delivered outside of the UK will be subject to customs import duties. All imported commercial goods are subject to customs duties and taxes based on their HS Code tariff classification. The importer/customer is responsible for paying the duty & tax. Loomlight is not responsible for these costs. We use DHL or FedEx for worldwide deliveries and they require payment of this tax before they can deliver your order. For further information about import duty & tax to your country please check the courier's website. We are unable to calculate the import tax on your behalf.
RETURNS
Returns
If you wish to return a product, please let us know within 14 days of delivery at hello@loomlightdesign.com and we shall organise that with you. Please inspect your order upon receipt and contact us immediately if the item is defective or damaged so that we can resolve the matter.
For a refund, items must be unused, returned in the original packaging and in a re-saleable condition. We will refund the product price only, once we have fully processed the return. Return shipping is at the cost of the customer.
Non-returnable Items
- - Items that have been customised by the request of the customer.
- - Items that have been electrically changed in any way by the customer or their contractor.
Find our full return policy here.
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- WORLDWIDE SHIPPING
- SECURE TRACKED DELIVERY
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