Vintage, for the collector. Antique opera glasses by J.M. Schmidt Opticien Amsterdam, in original leather case lined with red velvet. The viewer probably dates from 1890-1900. Both lens curves contain the name "J.M. Schmidt" and on the inside of the lid of the case, in the red velvet, is the text: "J.M. Schmidt Opticien, Wijde Kapelsteeg no. 1, Amsterdam". The viewer is in good, nice condition, especially given its age, a flaw is some damage to the glass, front right (when viewing this damage has no effect) and the turning mechanism still works properly. Difficult to read, in graceful letters engraved on top "Verret Superior". Background: The Schmidt shop, located on the corner of Rokin 72 and Wijde Kapelsteeg, is the oldest optics shop in the Netherlands. The shop does not only sell glasses, but traditionally also barometers, hygrometers, binoculars, opera glasses and loupes for a variety of purposes. From its start in 1866 up to 1948 the shop was directed by Johann Michaël Schmidt and his descendants. Then the management was taken over by others. J.M. Schmidt was a goldsmith and in 1866 he founded a shop in St. Nicholaasstraat and in 1873 he moved to the Wijde Kapelsteeg 1 in Amsterdam. These opera glasses come from the estate of my late father-in-law, who was an avid photo equipment and photo accessory collector. Please see the photos for a good impression.