SIB 7x35 Superweitvinkel

Mfr: J-B160, (No J-E mark)

Date: circa 1970's

AFOV: ~87.5 degrees

TFOV: 12.5 degrees, 657 feet at 1000 yards

Eye Relief: ~10mm

Prisms: high index

Serial Number: 0002

This SIB 7x35  is a bit unusual in that it is an import model from Japan to Germany.  The left prism cover has markings in German while the right prism cover has markings in English.  There is what appears to be a very low serial number (0002), possibly indicating a sample model.  The SIB appears to be basically the same as the Belfont 7x35 wide angle (both are J-B160).  It has the same round prism covers and rubber objective bumpers.  The eyecups, which were replaced on this unit, were probably originally rubber.

Optically, the SIB 7x35 is also very similar to the Belfont model.  The extra wide field of view is better than average but with the expected softness towards the edge.   Like the Belfont, the SIB exhibits a slightly warm or yellowish image.

Note: This sample has an interesting history in that it passed from the proprietor of APM-Telescopes in Germany to various optical and binocular enthusiasts in the U.S. before I obtained it in a trade (from the original owner of my Belfont!).  Who knows where it will go next.