Edwardian Opera Glasses by Lizars of Glasgow c. 1895-1915 | Leather-wrapped Binoculars in Original Case

For the man about town …  a handsome pair of leather-wrapped opera glasses by J. Lizars, Opticians of Glasgow and Edinburgh, dating to around 1895–1915 and housed in their original leather case. The glasses remain in excellent antique condition, with clean, working optics, well-preserved leather covering, and a fitted case complete with red satin lining and gold-stamped retailer’s label. Compact, elegant, and finely made, they would display beautifully on a gentleman’s desk, bookshelf, or side table.

Founded in the mid-1800s, J. Lizars was a respected Scottish optician and scientific instrument retailer with shops in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other major cities. Opera glasses of this type were widely used by Edwardian gentlemen at the theatre, opera, and racecourse. Small enough for a coat pocket yet solidly constructed, they were an essential accessory for social life at the turn of the twentieth century.

Dimensions (Case): 4-1/2” x 1-3/4” x 2-3/4” 
Dimensions (Glasses): 3-1/2” (top) x 2-1/4” x 3-3/4” (bottom); 2-7/8” high when extended
Weight (Combined): 8.1 oz.

Condition notes: Excellent antique condition overall, fully functional with a smooth-turning central focusing dial and clear, bright optics. Leather covering remains clean, secure, and evenly toned, with only light surface wear visible on close inspection and no lifting, cracking, or areas of loss noted. Brass fittings and trim show mild wear and faint handling marks consistent with age, with no dents or distortion. Lenses are intact and chip-free, with no haze, clouding, or internal dust observed. Original leather case remains in excellent condition, with a firm hinge, secure clasp, intact top handle, and well-preserved interior featuring red satin lining and clear gold-stamped retailer’s label. Item has been lightly polished.  Other items in photos not included.

All items are hand-wrapped, gift-boxed and packed with care for secure delivery. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 (not including taxes) ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.