My Perfect Binocular
subtitled Slow Day At Work
by Robert Ellis
I would pay big money for a binocular built on the concept of the Leica Duovid, with a dual magnification of 6x and 9x. The 36mm objectives would be of Zeiss's FL design. The eyepeices should include those elements Nikon uses to provide a flat field in the SE and LXL. Wrap up those optics in an EL style body and prepare to fight me off with a stick.
The End.
Robert,
I feel similarly... although I would want a dual power 7x/10x design. 36-38mm sounds just about right to me, although I'd probably even settle for a 40-42mm if that were all that was available and the weight was lower than the current x42 model.
My main complaint concerning the Leica Duovids is the weight... which could definitely be brought down to a reasonable level by reducing the objective diameter to 36 or 38mm. Use of Magnesium for the housing might also help. I think ideally the weight should be 22-28 ounces, much more than that is just too heavy.
If this existed (lightweight 7x/10x Duovid with 36mm Objectives) and the optical quality was as good as the current Duovid line, I would be selling quite a few of my existing binoculars in order to buy two pairs.
Best wishes,
Bawko
Sorry guys, this describes the perfect bin:
Take the 8x42 Ultravid form, except those damn thumb ridges.
replace the optics with those of the 8x42FL (possibly add the LX flattener);
replace the armor with that of the Swift 820;
replace focus wheel mechanics and perimeter shape with that of the FLs;
add a couple more clickstops to the eyecups;
keep the strap;
for kinkiness, throw in 12x ala the Duovid, AND Canon’s IS;
replace the price with that of the Nikon Sporter.