Shopping for a future princess and wife? Sounds romantic, but Prince William admits he fumbled big time early in his relationship with Kate Middleton. On Peter Crouch’s BBC podcast, William spilled the tea about the most cringe-worthy gift he’s ever given: a pair of binoculars. Yes, you read that right—binoculars. Talk about creativity?

Honestly, I have no idea why I bought her a pair of binoculars” the Prince confessed, adding that his wife still teases him about it. While the gesture may not have been #CoupleGoals, it did become one of the funniest chapters in their love story. William even joked, “I think that sealed the deal,” but maybe Kate Middleton had a more wholesome memory and interpretation of that moment.

The royals are no strangers to unconventional gifts. Forget the diamond necklaces! For example, “Ain’t life a b*tch” (a bath hat courtesy of Harry given to the late Queen) or Kate gifting Harry a “grow-your-own-girlfriend” kit during his single bad boy days. And hey, if binoculars didn’t scare Kate away, nothing will!