Please read the FAQs at the end of the listing before bidding or asking questions – thanks!

Every so often a binocular comes along that stops enthusiasts and collectors in their tracks. The Miyauchi Binon 7x50W is such a binocular, and with production reportedly now being phased out, this may represent your only chance to acquire this extraordinary optical device.

This is the world's only modern binocular that uses the Porro II design, which was made famous in war time binoculars such as the legendary Zeiss and Leitz 8x60 and 7x50 models. The Japanese company Miyauchi are well known for their high quality astronomical binoculars and their optical designers were allowed to recreate a modern classic by producing this fantastic wide angle 7x50 gem.

Its retro design is also something of a first in modern optics, adding to the allure of this binocular. It is constructed on brushed aluminum and a rich burgundy leather. Everything feels incredibly solid and well made and its Japanese construction guarantees the highest standards of quality control.

As can be seen from the photos it has huge and highly complex multi-element eyepieces. The semi-apo construction renders the richest, most colour faithful images imaginable and the wide angle effect of this binocular is truly amazing. Its 9.5 degree field covers almost half as much again as the standard 7x50 models.

This binocular has the latest state of the art multicoating and is fully waterproof, making it ideal for use in all weathers.

This is a significant opportunity to own a true one off in optics. Do not miss out!

I have set a realistic starting price for this special binocular in view of the fact that it cost £450 when new and is very hard to find now in any condition. This near mint example is likely to attract a lot of attention so please only bid if you are serious about owning this amazing device.

CONDITION

Binocular body: As new apart from a tiny cap missing from a screw head (does not affect performance in any way)

External glasswork: As new apart from a tiny dot on one objective lens (invisible in use)

Internal glasswork: As new

Mechancal operation: As new

US bidders/collectors are especially welcome for this premium item and the price (including insurance) for shipping to the USA is fixed at 30GBP for this item. European shipping is 25GBP including insurance (UK shipping charges are shown in the listing).

I am researching a book on binoculars and have been reviewing some of the finest models ever made.

You can buy with complete confidence – I am totally committed to ensuring that you are happy with your purchase. Check out my feedback, which speaks for itself. You will not be disappointed!

COPYRIGHT NOTICE: This listing (both text and photos) is subject to copyright. You are not entitled to reuse it for your own listings

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please look over these questions before bidding and asking any questions. I do not reply to questions that are answered below. Good luck bidding!

Is there a buy it now price?

Not unless it is shown clearly at the top of the listing. In general I do not offer a buy it now option. Once bidding is underway I never end auctions early.

I live in the UK – how can I pay?

By Paypal (my preferred option), cheque or postal order.

I live overseas – how can I pay?

The only option for overseas buyers is Paypal.

Can I collect in person?

Only in very rare cases – generally for very large items. I always state clearly in the text when this option is available.

What is the postal price to my country?

I always quote rates for postage to the UK, Europe and the USA. For other bidders from other countries I will offer the same rate as the USA unless shown otherwise.

What does the ‘Special Delivery’ postal service offer?

This is by far the best option in the UK for buyers and sellers. It offers full insurance, next day delivery and requires a signature on delivery. I can also track when you have received the item. Postage will be charged according to weight and packing only – I do not add on unnecessary charges.

What does the ‘International Signed-for Delivery’ option offer?

This is the ‘Special Delivery’ for air mail overseas. It provides fast delivery across the world with full insurance and needs a signature on arrival. I can also track when you have received the item. Postage will be charged according to weight and packing only – I do not add on unnecessary charges.

If I win more than one item can you send them together to save on postage?

My other work commitments mean that I pack all my items in advance. As such it is not possible to repack items for delivery together. In any case the postal rates for the services I use do not give much saving anyway for items packaged together in this way.

How is the binocular packed?

I always pack the binoculars extremely carefully using bubble wrap, foam chips and sturdy cardboard boxes. I have never had a binocular arrive damaged or out of alignment in over 250 eBay sales.

Can you offer cheaper postal options?

Sorry – I only use Special Delivery or International Signed-for Delivery. It gives security and peace of mind to both sellers and buyers.

I live outside the UK – why does your postal rate seem expensive?

The UK has some of the highest international postal charges in the world, but we also have one of the most reliable postal services. I have never had a parcel go missing in over 250 eBay sales!

If I win, when will I get my item?

For UK delivery the parcel usually arrives within three days of me receiving payment for the item. I process and send it as soon I can, using the fastest delivery option available. Sometimes postal delays happen that are beyond my control.

Why are you selling so many binoculars?

I am researching a book on the history of binoculars. To do this I am buying and selling hundreds of different models so I can test them optically and mechanically. After testing I sell on most of these binoculars. They are all superb examples of their type, and many are actually photographed for the book.

Do you have any other similar or interesting binoculars?

Yes, several hundred! I have assembled one of the largest reference collections of binoculars in the UK for research on my book. It is slowly being sold off and all items will eventually being listed. I am keeping just a handful of binoculars for my own and my family’s use. If you are interested in binoculars, check back on a regular basis to see what I have for auction. I usually sell five binoculars a week.

When will your book on binoculars be published?

My book (Binoculars: a social history) is scheduled for publication in December 2008, price 20GBP. You can reserve a copy now if you contact me. If you would like to receive further information about the book please get in touch. When published, copies will be available on eBay for buyers across the world.

Can you offer general advice on binoculars?

Due to the volume of enquiries I cannot answer all queries at the moment. I am setting up a website with some general answers to binocular questions.

Why do you have a copyright notice on your listing?

Ebay’s rules are quite clear on this – you are not entitled to borrow text and images from other people’s listings. There have been some instances of people simply copying my text and photos for their own listings. This is not acceptable and it also infringes my legal copyright to this material. While this does not prevent you from including the same facts about the items in your listings (year of manufacture, field of view, country of origin etc.), you cannot just take my text (or portions of it) and use it as if it were your own. Under eBay’s Intellectual Property Rights scheme I take action where it is clear that someone has used my text or photos without permission.