This set of binoculars and case came from an estate liquidation of a WWII veteran paratrooper and collector. Many of the items he brought back personally and others he acquired over the years.
There is documentation with these binoculars that states:
“To who it may concern. This set of binoculars S.N. 16988 was issued to William G Kautz and was used by him in many actions and was with him when he was killed in action on the Anzio beach head. Lt. Kautz was a true, brave and dedicated officer.” – PFC Paul H. Reynolds S.N. 33089438 H.Q.CO.
Lt. Kautz is mentioned five times in the book; Stand in the Door: The Wartime History of the Elite 509th Parachute Infantry Battalion by Charles H. Doyle & Terrell Stewart. There is a photo copy from the book with a photo of Kautz. Also included is a document of a conversation the veteran/collector had with PFC Reynolds confirming the story behind the binoculars.
We have no way to authenticate any of the documentation or that these binoculars belonged to Kautz. In the context of the collection and the record keeping that went with it; we do think these were most likely used by Kautz, but cannot state that definitively.
These binoculars are U.S. Army issue made by Baush & Lomb in the 1940s. The binoculars are 6 x 30. Condition is very good. Paint loss and minor wear is present. The eye pieces adjust as they should. Glass in unbroken. Focus and viewing is very good however there is speckling. This is most prevalent on the left lens. The crosshairs range finder of the left lens appears canted. The right lens view is amazingly clear.
The case is in excellent condition with only minor wear.
This set includes; binoculars, case, and supporting documentation.
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