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.