These binoculars are a Zeiss BLC 12x60 aiming telescope for German artillery rangefinding, with a 4 m base, dated to 1942 based on the serial number.
After the war, the device was “demilitarised” by CAG Swarovski: the reticle was removed, the optics inspected and a mount fitted so that it could be used on a tripod. It then became part of the private collection of Gernot Lange Swarovski, from where it was acquired by a fellow militaria collector.
I subsequently acquired the device from him, as I had worked at Swarovski Optik myself.
At Swarovski, I then contacted the archive to register the device and learn more about its history.
The device is currently listed in the Swarovski archive.

So much for its history.
The device itself is very clean and fully functional. It has no damage and everything moves as it should.
The optics are phenomenally clear and compare favourably with a 2022 Swarovski or Zeiss device, apart from the weight. The solid wooden tripod is of course included.
In addition to the standard optics, with continuously adjustable interpupillary distance and focus, two sliding colour filters ensure optimal viewing conditions even in sunlight.