5 replies to this topic

[rccgrant]

I was wondering if anyone is familiar with this particular make & model binocular and could possibly provide some details regarding it.

 

Thank you.

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[MisterDan]

It was supplied by Seiwa (J-B191).  Swift sold an 8x40 (Nighthawk model 771) with the same "design" - also made by Seiwa.  Mayflower sold a "twin" 8x40 with denim (instead of pebbled vinyl) "skin."

 

Here's a "denim" Mayflower 8x40:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/115929186755

 

I'm sure there were other 7x35 and 8x40 brands/models that utilized the same Seiwa unit, perhaps with different coating options and detailing.

 

Seiwa was one of most prolific binocular makers during this time (late '60s through mid '70s), and their designs and features were among the most "modern."  Some of their binoculars were very good; some were mediocre.  I don't think they ever produced an "alpha"/premium model, but very few makers did (or needed to).  My understanding is that these "California" type ("upside-down" or "bat-wing") 7x35 and 8x40 models by Seiwa were consistently good, but maybe not "wow" worthy.

 

The "TJK" emblem, by the way, indicates the binocular was exported by Toyo Jitsugyo Kogaku - another prolific maker, but perhaps better known as one of the biggest exporters of binoculars during the '50s-'70s "classic" era.

 

Best wishes.

Dan

[MisterDan]

Ward's 7032 model first appeared in 1973.  "Twin" models from other brands may have appeared a year or few earlier (or later).  Ward tagged the foam-backed-vinyl covering as "Sof-touch" and touted its comfort.  It also appears to be far more durable than later "skins" found on Celestron Ultima (and other) binocular models.

 

Cheers.

Dan

[pat in los angeles basin]

I have a 10x50 variant  of the oshmans - BK7 prisms - 8deg FOV decent with a bit too much aberration for me (one side only - I think there's a mis specced lens in that eyepiece). Decent build despite one glaring aspect- the focusing made the eyepiece arms flex a bunch- I decided to investigate and found the flanged compression screw that held the arms to the focus shaft was PLASTIC and superglued in place. It broke as opposed to turning so I took a soldering gun and melted to stub out and replaced  with a suitable bolt. Has one of the best focusers (buttery smooth with no lash) ever. In addition, the prism trays are spring loaded- so very shock tolerant. If it had high index prisms I'd spend  some more time on it.  I see the 7x35 appears to have the some rubber eyecups that are way too rigid to be folded. The 8x40 variant might be interesting..  (no eccentrics BTW), Regards, Pat 

[Mark Y.]

Thx for the educational expertise MisterDan....Btw, that denim version on E-bay looks really nice. Priced to sell I'd think. So different and a good addition to a binoholic's collection I'd guess.

[MisterDan]

I have a 10x50 variant  of the oshmans - BK7 prisms - 8deg FOV decent with a bit too much aberration for me (one side only - I think there's a mis specced lens in that eyepiece). Decent build despite one glaring aspect- the focusing made the eyepiece arms flex a bunch- I decided to investigate and found the flanged compression screw that held the arms to the focus shaft was PLASTIC and superglued in place. It broke as opposed to turning so I took a soldering gun and melted to stub out and replaced  with a suitable bolt. Has one of the best focusers (buttery smooth with no lash) ever. In addition, the prism trays are spring loaded- so very shock tolerant. If it had high index prisms I'd spend  some more time on it.  I see the 7x35 appears to have the some rubber eyecups that are way too rigid to be folded. The 8x40 variant might be interesting..  (no eccentrics BTW), Regards, Pat 

Here's a 7x50 Oshman's by Seiwa.  Thanks for the reminder; I'd forgotten about these "big brothers" of the 7x35 & 8x40.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/266596672563

 

Bell & Howell sold their share of the big Seiwas, as well. -Except B&H spec'd theirs as an 8x48, if I recall correctly. I don't know if the specs were simply "fudged" to differentiate themselves, or to appeal to the "higher magnification" buyers.  There was even a Zoom model: an 8x-17x48:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/116254739096

 

Montgomery Ward would later hit even bigger paydirt with their model 7037 - a BaK4 superwide 7x35 that was - you guessed it - also made by Seiwa. Wards sold a ton of them.  JCPenney sold a similar Seiwa model.

 

Cheers.

Edited by MisterDan, 17 July 2024 - 04:27 PM.