A fascinating piece of Edwardian British Military optical history: an original 1908 Ross, London 8½ Power Prismatic Monocular, complete with its matching Broad-Arrow marked leather transit case.
Unlike modern split binoculars, this compact unit was custom-built by Ross as a standalone monocular for artillery spotters, cavalry scouts, or officers requiring a quick, single-handed field glass.
The Monocular rear brass plate is clearly engraved "ROSS, LONDON. 8½ No 22186".
The opposite plate features the official British War Department Broad Arrow (Crow’s Foot) over the letter 'I' (Imperial Service/Issue), along with the contract date 1908 and individual issue number No 1778.
The Transit Case is moulded to fit the monocular.
The inside velvet lid retains beautifully preserved gold embossing reading: "Ross, Ltd. 31, New Bond St. and 3, Cockspur St. London."
The front of the leather case (under the securing tab) features a deeply stamped matching Broad Arrow / I government acceptance mark.
The bottom leather base of the case features a stamped letter "A" alongside an original handwritten ink inscription.
The monocular brass retains a fantastic, unpolished field patina.
The internal prisms are intact and clear.
The large black rear eyecup is present and structurally intact, showing only minor surface wear with some chipping on its bottom edge from historical field use.
The front (objective) lens area is missing its outer protective metal cap sleeve/ring, exposing the flat brass collar and its fine internal mechanical threads.
The transit case leather is structurally sound with intact perimeter stitching and a working brass closure stud.
The original leather carrying strap is missing.
One of the leather attachment tabs on the side of the case has started to separate from the main body and will require stabilisation or minor repair if handled roughly.
The purple velvet interior lining is still vibrant.
The photographs are of the actual item and form part of the description.
Please examine the photographs carefully and if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us.
