*British, WW2 Era, Vidor “Bullseye” Pocket Torch, Made in Great Britain*
An original vintage Vidor “Bullseye” pocket torch, clearly marked to the base “VIDOR / MADE IN GT. BRITAIN.” This compact British-made torch is of the classic pre-war and wartime utility pattern, featuring the distinctive domed magnifying “bullseye” glass lens designed to intensify the beam from the small internal bulb.
Constructed with a plated metal body, black end caps, and side sliding switch, this type of torch was commonly used throughout the 1930s–1940s for household, motoring, blackout use, and military field purposes. During the Second World War, compact torches such as this were especially practical for map reading, signalling, and civilian blackout conditions.
The interior retains its battery compartment and bulb fitting, originally designed for a flat battery type. The heavy glass lens and practical pocket-sized form are characteristic of British utility torch manufacture of the period.
Approx. Measurements – Width: 6.5 cm. Length: 12.5 cm.
History Note:
Vidor was one of Britain’s best-known battery and electrical goods manufacturers during the mid-20th century, producing batteries, portable radios, and torches. Their compact “bullseye” torches became a familiar domestic and wartime item, valued for reliability and strong focused light from relatively low-powered bulbs. The “Made in Great Britain” marking distinguishes these from similar continental examples such as German Daimon torches of the same era.
*Condition*
Honest period example showing clear age and use. There is notable surface oxidation, rusting, and plating wear throughout, along with a hole/perforation to one side of the body casing. The black end cap material shows wear and age-related degradation. Internal compartment shows oxidation but remains present. Untested for working order and sold as a display/collector’s piece. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
