Nina on Swarovsky
I have been on a steep yet enjoyable learning curve since joining the crew at Eagle Optics earlier this spring. I’ve become familiar with the mechanics of optics while handling and looking through a wide variety of binoculars and spotting scopes and appreciating the differences by quality and price. Clearly (no pun intended), one can spend an awful lot of money on a pair of binoculars. Why would anyone want to do that, when you can buy decent binoculars for considerably less? Are differences in optical quality really that significant? Are you getting that much more bang for your buck? For many of our customers, the answer is a resounding yes.
Both birders and hunters dream of owning a Swarovski binocular, considered by many to be the best optics in the industry. I recently had the pleasure of spending a few hours with our Swarovski rep, Keith, to find out what sets this family-owned company apart from their competition.
Swarovski is a relatively small factory located in the town of Absam, a suburb of Innsbrook, Austria. Each binocular, scope, and rangefinder is assembled by hand. Really! If that isn’t impressive enough, consider that they also manufacture each tool and element of its product with just one exception: the material for the rubber armoring. I also like knowing that all production is carried out with a reverence and respect for the environment.
Uncompromising performance in optics is paramount at Swarovski – they really know their glass. In addition to sport optics, the Swarovski name is synonymous with fine crystal production. Also, a subsidiary produces reflectors for roads and rail lines throughout the world. The superb quality of Swarovski’s glass is largely owed to high standards in lens grinding and polishing techniques, rendering optical clarity that’s extremely tough to beat!
As a consumer, how can you tell by looking through the new signature Swarovision EL binocular that its glass is so superior? The answer is simple: get one in your hands! In low-light conditions, compare the Swarovsion EL with your current binocular; you will be treated to unparalleled clarity of image, truest color and razor sharp, distortion-free resolution.
Sure, the product is pricey, but Keith assured me, “It’s only expensive once!” If you are ready to make that once in a lifetime optics investment, Swarovski is certainly a brand worth considering!
Originally published on May 25, 2010