Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular USA

Comments about Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular:

We use these for birding and other wildlife viewing. They exceeded our expectations .... and these are our 4th set of Zwarovski Binocs. We also own other high end brands .. these are the best at this size. If you want medium size for wildlife viewing, you cannot do better than these.

Comments about Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular:

This product provides sharp vision. However, depending on how you hold the binocular, an area would be blurred. It took me a few practices to get used to the binocular.

Comments about Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular:

When we were first married, my wife purchased the Swift Audubon Mark II 8.5 x 44 binoculars for me, primarily for use when birding. This was over 30 years ago. These have served me well for more than 3 decades and survived some harsh abuse at times (always unintentional, of course). They were always an asset in the field, but in recent years, I came to understand that others (with very high end binoculars) could see see details that I could not. I took advantage of looking through numerous excellent birders' binoculars of several of the best brands. While most of the 'best' ones, had similar characteristics, I kept coming back to Swarovski for their extreme clarity. I think that in this age of computerized optical design, it's not all that difficult to develop a sharp optical system. But Swarovski went beyond just being sharp.

The optics here appear perfectly transparent. You do not get the impression of using optics, rather just being much closer to what you're observing. My previous binoculars were pretty sharp, but had nowhere the transparency and brightness that these have. The mechanics are excellent and extremely smooth, with superb focusing, essentially right down to my feet with sure, quick movements of the focus knob. These optics work perfectly with my glasses so there is no problem at all there, and they truly feel excellent in hand. (I still sometimes have to get used to NOT holding the older and wider style of binoculars.)

I have yet to try these on small butterflies or odes in the field, but I can see that they will be a wonderful asset in helping develop identifications.

There are details that really made me smile, including the lens cover system. These should really help maintain these lenses in top condition for a very long time. The only difficulty I encountered was in trying to decipher how to attach the front lens cover to the strap (so it doesn't become lost). Perhaps I am just being dense but I couldn't figure it out. Eventually, I'll just attach this cover to the strap with another small strap.

The adjustment to the right ocular is clever (having come from the 30 year-old Swift unit). It's easy to set and stays set. No chance to move it during operation. Likewise, the neck strap is quite nicely done and is comfortable in the field. I keep the binoculars quite high up so it doesn't bump into my Canon 40-D with the 100-400 IS zoom lens, which hangs just below it from a shoulder harness. And the case, while bulky, should protect the binoculars perfectly from even the most clumsy airline luggage attendant. Oh, and the warranty…it's Swarovski. That's all I needed to know. They'll take care of me well, if and whenever it's required beyond just periodic cleaning and lubrication.

All in all, this was an excellent purchase and a GREAT value for what you get. While there are more expensive binoculars out there, these were just perfect for me. Even my wife, essentially a non-birder, could see the difference. And, of course, she's thrilled that I am so happy with them.

Excellent tool for the birder who simply wants to see as much and as well as possible.

I should also add that the B & H price was incredibly and unbeatably enticing, too. That was the cherry on top.

Comments about Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular:

I have been a backyard birder for 2 years. I have also gone on several birding field trips. Needless to say, I have used three pairs of what I believed to be high quality binos. Then, I purchased the EL 8.5X42"s. "Holy Cow!!" I have owned them for three weeks now.

The first time I looked through these binos I was truly astonished! The brightness, clarity of detail edge to edge and color saturation left me speechless. No kidding.

The balance of these binos is so perfect that I do not even feel the weight. Their wonderful to hold. Moreover, as a birder, I spend hours looking through my binoculars. My previous binos gave me eye fatigue after an hour or so. NOT SO with the EL's. I have looked through these binos for hours and never once experienced eye fatigue. Amazing!! My eyes always felt relaxed and never strained. The detail that can be clearly observed remains unmatched.

The eye cup and rain covers fit perfectly and never fall off like others I have used. I also love the +-5 diopter capability since my eyes are getting a bit older.

The focus knob is smoothe,quick and can be cycled slowly enough to really hone in on perfect focus. All in all, I am ectatic over these binos.

Comments about Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular:

These may be the most expensive binocular around but the image and ergonomics are worth it. Image is sharp edge-to-edge, clarity like a Canon L or Nikon ED lense, and can focus at objects some 6 feet away. Eye cups are easy to use, focusing wheel very precise.

Comments about Swarovski EL 8.5x42 SwaroVision Binocular:

Swarovsky binoculars will meet all your expectations. Do not hesitate to purchase these binoculars.