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Carl Zeiss 7x50 Binoculars

Specifications

Carl Zeiss 7x50 Binoculars

Category

Military

Classification

CHENHALL - Tools & Equipment for Science & Technology - Optical T&E - Binoculars

Object Origin
Manufacturer:

Carl Zeiss

Date Manufactured:

c. 1940

Place of Production:

Germany

Physical Characteristics

Object Description: Black metal 7x50 Carl Zeiss binoculars. The lenses are wide set and with a slightly triangular grip near the end closest to the user. Text is engraved next to each eyepiece. To the left of the text on the proper left eyepiece is the Nazi eagle and swastika insignia.

Materials:

metal

glass

Marks: Proper left: "CARL ZEISS / JENA / D.F. 7x50 / 2149078" Proper right: "N / Nr. 35836"

Measurements: Object:
    Height: 2.25 in, Length: 8 in, Width: 7.25 in
    Weight: 2 lbs

Credit

Gift of Margaret Wdowiak, wife of U-505 boarding party member Stanley Wdowiak, 2000.13.1

Display Status

On Exhibit

Carl Zeiss 7x50 Binoculars

About: Carl Zeiss 7x50 Binoculars

About: Carl Zeiss 7x50 Binoculars

Carl Zeiss (1816-1888) was a German inventor and optical engineer, best known for founding the Carl Zeiss optical company, a leading manufacturer of optical systems and instruments. During World War II, these binoculars, fitted with Zeiss lenses, were popular among the German Wehrmacht and were ideal for reconnaissance and helping soldiers assess situations from a distance. The "7x50" designation indicates a magnification of 7 times and an objective lens diameter of 50mm, providing good light-gathering capabilities which is essential for use in various lighting conditions, including low light.


These binoculars were a gift from Margaret Wdowiak, wife of Radioman 2nd Class, Stanley Wdowiak of the USS Pillsbury and member of the boarding party after the battle of the U-505 on June 4, 1944. He was the second man down the hatch when the American crew boarded the submarine following the battle between the U-505 and Task Force 22.3.

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