Swarovski Optik EL (8.5x42) Binocular

Pros: Excellent optics, beautiful build and good design.
Cons: A trace of chromatic aberration. Pricey - so what did you expect?

Introduction The Swarovski 8.5x42 EL binocular is a premium quality full sized binocular from the prestigious Austrian optical company. It is already a best seller due to outstanding optics and ergonomics. Design and Build The Swarovski ...

Pros: Comfortable to use, great color resolution and watertight to 13 ft.
Cons: Price, focus turns, magnification.

I've been a birdwatcher for about 20 years and this is my third pair of binoculars. I've owned them for about two years. I originally chose Swarovski because my dad has a pair of Swarovski SLCs and I fell in love with them. I paid about $(US)1,400 for...

Pros: 7.4FOV, 8.5x & 42mm best choice for serious birder. Weight best of high $$ glass.
Cons: None for birding. See comments.

Best birding binocular hands down. Optics equal to or better than Leica, Zeiss, top Nikon line. 7.4 Field of View (apparent FOV), 8.5x Power and 42mm front glass best choice for serious birder. Great (8ft.) close focus. Weight best of the high priced...

Pros: Great Optics
Cons: Grossly Overpriced

I'll spare everyone the boring detail.

A. Yes, the Swarov EL's are outstanding binocs. Yes, the ergonomics are very good indeed. Yes, the view is remarkably clear.
B. No, they aren't worth the extortionate price.
C. For the...

Pros: clarity durability, light enhancing ability.
Cons: none

We bought these binos after shopping around a bit and trying several other types, Leicas etc.

The only complaint I hear is that the focus takes a few more turns to move from close in (about 8 feet) to infinity. We both have not found a problem with this.

They have a great ability to enhance light when looking under a bush or through leaves. (We use them for birding).

If you have the cash (credit) these are wonderful and worth the price