Most writers mention that there were no binoculars for the lookouts in the crow’s nest.
Some imply that it was a caste thing; only officers were entitled to binoculars.
Others opine that they were stolen from the crow’s nest while the ship was in Cherbourg.
The explanation is somewhat more complicated, yet typical of how stuff happens.
The binoculars were in a locker in Lightoller’s cabin, but he was not aware of this because of a last minute crew change:
Murdoch was assigned as Chief Officer but Smith felt he lacked experience in big ships and, instead, requested Henry Wilde—his chief on Olympic. Murdoch was bumped to First, and Lightoller to Second Officer, leaving David Blair on the dock.
Blair had ordered the binoculars removed from the crow’s nest to a locker in his cabin. He never got around to telling anyone before he left the ship.
