If you’re searching for information on vintage optics, you might be wondering: did Bendix Avelex Inc make spotting scopes? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. This article will clarify the company’s history and its connection to the optical devices you might find today. We’ll help you identify true Bendix products and understand what you’re actually looking at.
Bendix was a giant in aerospace and automotive parts, known for things like brakes and aviation instruments. The name “Bendix Avelex Inc” specifically relates to a Canadian subsidiary. While they were involved in high-precision manufacturing, their primary focus wasn’t on consumer sporting optics like traditional spotting scopes.
Did Bendix Avelex Inc Make Spotting Scopes
The direct answer is that Bendix Avelex Inc did not manufacture spotting scopes for the civilian market under its own name. Their expertise was in defense, aerospace, and specialized industrial contracts. However, this is where things get interesting for collectors and researchers.
It’s possible that Bendix Avelex produced optical components or complete viewing systems for military or government use. These devices wouldn’t be labeled as “spotting scopes” in a store, but could serve a very similar purpose—like artillery observation devices, surveillance periscopes, or rangefinders. So, you might find a military surplus item with Bendix markings that functions like a spotting scope.
Understanding the Bendix Name in Optics
The Bendix brand has a long and complicated history with many divisions and subsidaries. This can lead to confusion in the secondary market. Here’s what you need to know:
* Bendix vs. Bendix Avelex: Bendix Corporation (U.S.) had many branches. Bendix Avelex was its Canadian operation, often tied to defense contracts.
* Rebranded Products: Sometimes, large manufacturers like Bendix would produce optics for other companies who would then sell them under their own brand name. This is called “private labeling.”
* Misidentified Items: A telescope or monocular from a different maker might be incorrectly listed online as “Bendix” because the seller isn’t sure about its origin.
How to Identify a True Bendix Optical Instrument
If you have a device you think might be from Bendix, follow these steps to investigate:
1. Look for Markings: Check every part of the device for engraved or stamped labels. Look for “Bendix,” “Bendix Avelex,” a Bendix logo (often a triangle or stylized “B”), or a part number.
2. Research the Part Number: If you find a number like “AN/PVS-xxx” or “Mxx,” it’s likely a military designation. Search that exact number online along with “Bendix.”
3. Examine the Design: Military optics are often built much heavier than consumer models. They might have odd fittings, military camo paint, or connectors for tripods or vehicle mounts.
4. Check with Collector Forums: Online forums dedicated to military surplus or vintage optics are invaluable. Experienced collectors can often identify obscure pieces.
Common Optical Devices Bendix Might Have Produced
While not spotting scopes per se, here are some related items Bendix Avelex could have been involved with:
* Periscopes and Viewers: For armored vehicles or fixed positions.
* Bomb Sights and Navigation Devices: For aircraft.
* Rangefinders: Used to calculate distance to a target.
* Thermal or Night Vision Components: Especially in later years.
If you own something like this, it’s a fascinating piece of history, even if it’s not a traditional spotting scope for birdwatching.
What to Do If You Find a “Bendix” Spotting Scope
You see an item listed for sale as a Bendix spotting scope. Here’s your action plan:
* Ask for Detailed Photos: Request clear pictures of all markings, the lens, the overall body, and any case it comes with.
* Question the Seller: Ask how they know it’s a Bendix. Do they have any history or documentation?
* Compare Prices: If the price seems to low for a precision instrument, it might be mislabeled. If it seems to high, the seller might be overestimating its value.
* Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off about the listing or the seller’s knowledge, it’s okay to walk away.
Great Alternatives for Vintage Spotting Scopes
If you’re interested in classic optics from the mid-20th century, several companies did make excellent spotting scopes. These are more likely what you’re seeking:
* Bausch & Lomb: Famous for their Balvar rifle scopes and other fine optics.
* Weaver: Known for scopes, but also made some spotting devices.
* Japanese Brands (1960s+): Companies like Tasco, Jason, and others imported quality scopes from Japan.
* Hensoldt & Zeiss: German manufacturers known for superb military and civilian optics.
Focusing your search on these brands will yield better results than looking for the elusive Bendix spotting scope.
FAQ Section
Q: Did Bendix ever make telescopes or binoculars?
A: Similar to spotting scopes, it’s unlikely they made consumer binoculars. However, they almost certainly produced binocular-style devices for military applications, which might surface on the surplus market.
Q: Is Bendix Avelex still in business?
A: The original Bendix Corporation went through many changes. The Bendix name still exists under different ownership in the aerospace sector, but the Avelex subsidiary as it was is not active in consumer optics.
Q: I have a Bendix aviation instrument. Is it related?
A: Yes, absolutely. Bendix was a major player in aviation gauges, radios, and navigation equipment. This is their core heritage, and those items are common and well-documented.
Q: Are Bendix optical items valuable?
A: Value depends entirely on the item, its condition, and its historical significance. A rare military rangefinder in good condition could have value to a niche collector. A mislabeled consumer scope has little value.
Q: Where is the best place to research my old optic?
A: Start with military surplus forums and websites dedicated to vintage optical equipment. Museums with military collections can sometimes provide information too.
In summary, while Bendix Avelex Inc was a powerhouse in precision engineering, they did not make commercial spotting scopes. The heart of your search should focus on identifying any military or specialized optical device you may have. Understanding the difference between a consumer product and a military tool is key. By checking markings and doing careful research, you can uncover the true story behind your piece of optical gear. Remember, the history behind a military surplus item is often just as compelling as the device itself, offering a tangible link to the past’s technological achievements.