"The Eye of the Flak" is a trilogy dedicated to the most produced large-objective binoculars ever: the D.F. 10 x 80, better known as the Flakglas. In Volume I, we primarily examine the origins and general aspects of German anti-aircraft binoculars within their sociological and military contexts. In Volume II, we focus on dating each individual binocular, delve into the manufacturers, and explore the various original classification systems of German military optics in general. We also take a deep dive into the different industrial and military systems, from the moment of development to the final delivery to units at the front. We devote extensive attention to quality control, the functioning of the Waffenamt, and provide a portrait of the key individuals and companies involved, with the company of Carl Zeiss, Jena, proving to be the central actor. In Volume III, we highlight all the accessories and tell the intriguing story of this unique binocular after World War II. We also cover its technical aspects and provide a detailed guide on how to repair these binoculars yourself.

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It would be a mistake to think that these reference works contain information exclusively about the Flakglas—quite the contrary: What applied to the Flakglas applied equally to all other German optics from this highly turbulent and dark period. Binoculars from this era possess an incredible depth and can be approached from countless perspectives. These optics, in terms of both quality and quantity, as well as their historical significance, have never been surpassed and likely never will be.

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