- 2 Frassetto Way - Lincoln Park, NJ 07035
The Peter Benchley Collection: Jaws, A Life of Writing, A Legacy of Stories
Lot 66:
Description
Two pairs of personal protective goggles dating to the early and mid-20th century. The first is a pair of Willson Service Goggles, Style E1, featuring round amber-tinted lenses mounted in silver-plated metal frames. The construction includes fine mesh side shields and fabric-padded rims designed to prevent the ingress of dust. An adjustable brown fabric headband is secured to the frame. The goggles are accompanied by their original olive drab metal storage tin containing two instructional leaflets regarding headband adjustment and frame fitting. The second pair consists of folding military desert goggles, likely for sun, wind, and dust protection, featuring dark-tinted lenses in reddish-brown frames with a black elasticized fabric headband. These are housed in a rectangular gold-tone metal case with instructions for use printed on the lid. Marked Willson on the bridge of the Service Goggles; the metal case lid is printed Willson Service Goggle Style E1 Headband Made in U. S. A. The desert goggles are embossed 1944 on the lower rim. Larger pair: 5 1/2" x 1" x 18 1/2" straps.
From the personal collection of Peter Benchley (American, 1940–2006), acclaimed author of Jaws, accomplished diver, and prominent advocate for ocean and shark conservation.
Condition report:
The Willson goggles exhibit oxidation and green verdigris to the bridge and lens rims. The fabric padding and headband show heavy discoloration, staining, and fraying consistent with use. Lenses have minor surface scratches. The associated tin shows significant finish loss and surface rust. The 1944 goggles show significant white powdery blooming and deterioration to the frames. The elastic headband is stretched and worn, and the lenses exhibit surface clouding. The rectangular tin has surface scratches and small spots of oxidation.
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