Exceptional and rare tri-power binocular telescope, engraved "Ernst Leitz Wetzlar No 135750" and engraved on the left lens "25 X 40 X 55 X" Germany, circa 1915.  This magnificent instrument has a pair of 3/4 inch objective lenses.  At the back of the instrument is a platform which houses two round turrets, each with three eye pieces.  To change the magnification between 25 - 55, one would rotate the turret until the desired lens clicks into position.  Each eye piece focuses independently.  By gently separating the turrets one adjusts the interpupillary distance to suit the viewer.  The optics are remarkable as one would expect from the world renown Leitz Company.  The lens tubes, turrets, and fittings are brass and nickel.  The bottom of the binoculars retains the original crank up, adjustable tripod mount with side mounted locking level.  The legs are maple and the mount, cranking wheel, center post and center post locking lever are nickel plated.          (I-843)                                                                                                                                                       Note:  This is the earliest example of a binocular telescope we have examined.  The fact that it is manufactured by Leitz vastly increases its collectible status.  It is the only example of an early Leitz binocular telescope we have ever examined.  Multi-powered binocular telescopes are rare, but this is far and away the most powerful binocular telescope we have examined, regardless of age.                                             Condition:  The binoculars have been recently overhauled.  They were completely dissembled so all the optics could be clean and properly aligned.  The lenses were lubricated so that focusing is easy and accurate.  The turrets were adjusted so that when rotated they properly click into position.  All the nickel and brass tubes and fittings were polished.  The tripod legs and mount have been cleaned and polished.  The crank up mechanism is in fine working order.Dimensions:  Length 30 inches; Width 7 1/2 inches; Height mounted on tripod 55 3/4 (minimum) with an extension of up to 19 inches by cranking the center column height adjustment knob.