In 1999, SWAROVSKI OPTIK presented the world’s first ever binoculars with wrap-around grip which, combined with premium optical quality, immediately won over the most demanding users. Today, ten years later, the long-established Austrian company has optimised its EL 42 range and is setting new standards in optical quality with its revolutionary new SWAROVISION technology, innovative field flattener lenses and enhanced coating technology.
Maximum peripheral definition, maximum contrast & maximum colour fidelity
The new EL 42 SWAROVISION series offers the best complete package for professional and demanding users. Thanks to the new field flattener lenses, which create a virtually even image, this EL generation offers exceptional, unprecedented image quality. Even the finest structures and smallest details are reproduced in razor-sharp clarity without distortions at the image periphery. This exceptional image quality eliminates the need for constant refocusing and allows even the smallest details to be registered in an instant.
The fluoride-containing HD lenses minimise colour fringing (chromatic aberration) for contrast-rich images with razor-sharp outlines.
The enhanced SWAROBRIGHT, SWAROTOP and SWARODUR reflection-reducing coatings of the lenses and prisms in the new EL 42 range provide lifelike colour reproduction and outstanding image brightness, guaranteeing optimum contrast even at dusk or in poor light conditions. The SWAROTOP coating enhancements introduced by the SWAROVSKI OPTIK Research and Development team over the past months include significant improvements in both lifelike colour reproduction and transmission. In addition, the SWAROCLEAN coating on the eye piece and objective lenses ensures a non-stick effect, making it much easier to clean off stubborn dirt such as water marks and tree resin.
“Bringing further significant improvements to the optical performance of our EL range was a major challenge, but through the use of innovative lens combinations, new types of glass and improved coating technology, we have succeeded in setting new standards in brilliance and image definition”, Ludwig Pernstich, Member of the Executive Board – Technology.
New focusing mechanism – quick, precise and reliable
The new focusing wheel, with its unique combination of hard and soft components, offers excellent grip and stability. The focusing mechanism is particularly smooth and free from backlash, making the EL 42 SWAROVISION both easy to use and precise. Only two complete turns take you from infinity to the shortest focusing distance ever of 1.5 metres, making it ideal for macro observation of the insect world.
The new EL 42 SWAROVISION binoculars also have a range of vision correction options. The focusing mechanism of the EL 8.5x42 model, for instance, offers dioptric adjustment of +/-6 dpt and +/-8 dpt for EL 10x42. In addition, the integrated dioptric compensation is able to correct vision to +/-5 dpt.
Full field of view for eyeglass-wearers
To add to all of its other benefits, the new EL 42 SWAROVISION also features a larger exit pupil distance, allowing spectacle wearers to benefit from an exceptional, wide-angle field of view and enjoy the inimitable peripheral definition. The stable, removable twist-in eyecups are individually adjustable in three stages, permitting improved individual adjustment of the distance between eyepiece lens and eye.
Advanced function and design
The binoculars’ rubber armouring guarantees a comfortable grip even in cold weather. Ergonomic thumb depressions and optimum weight balance contribute to a comfortable observation experience. The time-tested EL wrap-around grip and focusing wheel have been specifically designed to allow the EL 42 SWAROVISION to be operated comfortably and safely with one hand, even when wearing gloves. The magnesium housing and load bearing parts made from high quality light alloys provide maximum ruggedness and stability coupled with a comparatively low overall weight of 795 g for the EL 8.5x42 model and 800 g for EL 10x42.
The practical, coordinating accessories complete the package: All EL 42 SWAROVISION binoculars are supplied with a water-repellent functional bag, adjustable lift carrying strap, lens and eyepiece caps, and a snap-shot adapter. This adapter can be used to quickly position a compact digital camera, providing excellent quality shots even over large distances.
The new EL 42 SWAROVISION models will be available on sale from 1 January 2010.