Original German WWI MG08 Machine Gun Z.F. 12 Telescopic Optical Sight by G. Rodenstock of München in Scarce Original WWII Issue Case

Original Item: Only One Available. This a very nice service-used example of the German WWI Zielfernrohr (Remote Target Scope) 12 (Z.F.12), a 2.5X power, optical gun sight for the MG08, 7.92mm, Maxim machine gun, as used by Imperial Germany and her allies during the First World War and beyond. This example comes in its incredibly scarce original carrying case, only the second we’ve ever offered!

The scope is marked on the side with the number designation, serial number, and maker information:

Z.F. 12
No. 1681
( R )
G. RODENSTOCK
MÜNCHEN

The optics look great and appear to be fully functional, without any cracking in the glass. It is however missing the leather eyepiece, but the dial on the left side is present. The sight does still retain the lens cover for the objective lens, along with the leather retaining strap!

The original carrying case is in great shape with both retention straps retained on the side, with both knobs present as well. It’s marked:

JDEM / WEDEL 1937 (WAFFENAMT) WaA270?

This means it’s an inter-war case manufactured for the scopes which were still used on the guns at this time. The top of the lid is stamped SA in a rectangle, denoting that this saw Finnish use. The lid contains two spots for spare lenses. Both spare lenses are gone but the small covers are in great shape. Both belt loops on the back are intact. The case has heavy wear overall but is still solid!

A great scope in its case, ready for further research and display.