Splitterbrille, Muster Nitsche & Günther, mit fester Nasenbrücke

Flying goggles of the Nitsche & Günther pattern, the optical works in Rathenow that equipped German aircrew for most of the war. This is the solid-bridge variant: the black rubber body is moulded in one piece across the nose, not hinged or split in the middle. That makes the frame stiffer and gives a tighter seal against the face in an open or damaged cockpit.

The lenses are tinted splinter-resistant safety glass (“Splitterschutz”). They were meant to cut glare at altitude and to hold together if hit by Plexiglas fragments or debris. Each lens sits in its own housing, and the frame opens at the outer edges so the glass could be changed in the field. The olive woven elastic strap is fixed with its original metal side clips and still has its colour and weave.

The frame shows honest wear, with light scuffs and small marks from handling. Both lenses are clear and intact, with no cracks or delamination. It is a piece that saw service and was not stored away in a box.