In 1876, John Benjamin Dancer, a British optician, invented the first binocular microscope. This new invention allowed two people to see an object at the same time through a single lens. The first binoculars were created in 1881 by German company Carl Zeiss. In 1894, the French company Lemaire patented the first compact binoculars. These binoculars were small enough to fit in a coat pocket and were popular with birdwatchers and hunters. In the early 1900s, the Japanese company Nikon started making binoculars. Nikon's binoculars were used by the Japanese military in World War II. After the war, Nikon became a leading manufacturer of binoculars and other optical products. Today, there are many different types and brands of binoculars. Some binoculars are designed for specific activities such as birdwatching, hunting, or stargazing. Other binoculars are designed for general use. Five Flower is a Japanese company that makes binoculars and other optical products. Five Flower's binoculars are known for their high quality and durability. The company's binoculars are used by both amateur and professional astronomers. Five Flower's binoculars are also popular with birdwatchers and hunters.