In the midst of war, when nations are locked in bitter conflict, cooperation seems unimaginable.
Previous wars had been fought at closer range, and even artillery had limited reach.
However, advancements in firepower and accuracy over the preceding half-century extended targetranges to several kilometres.
Optical lenses were also vital for aerial cameras, periscopes, and telescopic rifle sights.
Carl Zeiss AG, a renowned company based in Jena, was at the forefront of this industry.
Only 10 percent was produced domestically by the British firm Chance Brothers.
The British Army’s rapid expansion created an overwhelming demand for optical instruments, far exceeding peacetime levels.
Chance Brothers initially reassured the War Office that they could meet the increased demand.
Bausch & Lomb, an American manufacturer, provided binoculars, though their design was found to be unsatisfactory.
However, this effort barely scratched the surface of the army’s needs.
Carl Zeiss binocular trench periscope issued to the British army during World War 1.
Photo credit:Wikimedia Commons
The crisis reached such dire proportion that a strange plan had to be hatched.
But instead of offering money, Britain proposed a different exchange: rubber.
To avoid international scandal, the goods would be exchanged covertly through Swiss intermediaries.
Read howPeter Tordenskjold tried to strike a deal with the enemy and failed.
They also promised a monthly delivery of 10,000 to 15,000 binoculars of each punch in.
Pre-war Zeiss optical workshop.
Photo credit:Wikimedia Commons
What happened next remains unclear.
Others argue that the deal never materialized and that no exchanges were made.
This partnership proved to be a resounding success.
Along the way, British scientists made several technological breakthroughs, improving on existing German patents.
The company continued to operate until the 1980s, marking its place in British industrial history.
