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On offer is a lovely example of a pair of Lemaire Fabt Paris opera glasses in their original case. I'm told these probably date from before 1891 as they are marked "Fabt", because after that they were marked "Made in France". I can't be sure that information is correct though. The opera glasses come in their original leather case. Please take a good look at the pictures as they form part of the item description.

Jacques Lemaire was a renowned French optician from Paris who began producing Lemaire opera glasses in 1847. His company continued manufacturing them until around 1955. Lemaire's trademark symbol was a small engraved bee.

The glasses have a metal frame, and the barrels are covered with black leather. A central wheel adjusts the focus, and this seems to work fine. They look in good condition, and there is no damage to the lens. I did try to look through them, but my eyesight is such that I couldn't see clearly - I feel that is me though and not the glasses. The words "Lemaire Fabt Paris", and the bee symbol appear on the eyepiece rims, and the central brace. There are also what I think are the numbers "61" and "K73564" on the central brace.

The leather case appears to have a metal frame to give it strength. It has a hinged lid with a snap closure mechanism, and this still works well. On the catch is the ornate engraved bee symbol. The inside of the case is lined with silky fabric which is quite grubby and marked. The lid lining is made from card covered with silky fabric. The lid lining is loose - I don't know if this is original. On the top of the case is a small leather carrying handle, and this is still firm and without damage.

There are signs of wear and tear to the glasses and case that are commensurate with age and use. There is some rubbing and marking as would be expected, but overall the condition is really nice. The glasses display well, and will make a delightful addition to any collection.

!!!Please look at all the  pictures as they form part of the item description!!!

PLEASE NOTE
Description is my opinion based on examination of the item shown. If you have ANY questions, please ask before you bid. I require payment within 3 days from the date you are sent your invoice (unless we have previously agreed a different arrangement). Ebay automatically open a non payment case on the 4th day after the item ends.  

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