What is this optical device ?
 

Hello all. This 'sight' for want of better identification has been sitting on my desk since 1994 as a paperweight. I have no idea what it's purpose was before it was found in a scrapyard in victoria where there were parts of and LVT, a General Lee tank, some jeeps and other softskins.

I have always imagined it was something to do with the main armament of the LVT(A)$ which was in the same yard.

Sorry about the pics. There are few markings but a brass data plate which reads 'D28553.

There is a compass needle and level in the ipper compartment with a magnified sighting device to read the compass from the horizontal operator's position. It was originally fitted on a ball mount with wingnut screw but as with the top part, the base is snapped off. It's very well made from almost all brass parts and painted olive drab...

Any suggestions ?

Cheers

Phill Hastings

Another (poor) picture
 

The whole thing is very heavy for it's size of 18cm high by 24cm around the body...

Cheers

Phill Hastings