(member)

07/01/09 06:18 AM

Pentax PCF (older versions)

This is my first post, although I've been reading and learning a lot from you folks. I've been trying to find some info on the Pentax PCF v. I and II (late 1980s to mid 90s), but haven't come up with much. Can anyone tell me how those compare to the current models?

(Professor EdZ)

07/01/09 08:47 AM

Re: Pentax PCF (older versions)

I've never seen a PCF I or II, but my long gone PCF III 12x50 were excellent. However, coatings were not up to current technology. While the objectives were SMC, the prisms were simply coated. Views were excellent.

edz

(member)

07/01/09 08:56 AM

Re: Pentax PCF (older versions)

Good info. Thanks, Ed.

(Just worried)

07/01/09 09:14 AM

Re: Pentax PCF (older versions)

Hi Gary, Welcome to Cloudy Nights. I had the Pentax PCF V 10x50 and it was a very good binocular. I replaced it with my Nikon 10x42 SE . Sometimes I miss the Pentax 10x50. The Pentax was a lot less money compared to the 10SE but it didn't compare to the 10SE.

(professor emeritus)

07/01/09 08:34 PM

Re: Pentax PCF (older versions)

Hello Gary:

I’ve experience only with an older PCF from the period you describe. FWIW, a couple of years ago, I did some daytime “resolution testing” with 100 ft, 8-18 arcsecond “homemade” USAF style elements drafted in Autocad. Excerpts from posted results, FWIW:

“A center target was installed, followed by adjoining targets at angular separations of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 degrees from center. Bins were tripod mounted. Results are in arcseconds apparent resolution (Observed resolution x listed magnification of bins).

Pentax 7x50 PCF, 7-degree FOV (Circa early 1990's)- Center, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 degrees out: 91, 91, 91, 98, 126, Off-Scale

Swift Model 761 8x42 Ultralights, 5-Degree FOV - Center, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 degrees out: 96, 96, 104, 116

G.O. 10.5x70 Signatures, 5-Degree FOV - Center, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 degrees out: 94.5, 105, 115.5, 136.5”

Don’t know what particular PCF model I have; the photo may help. This bin is one of four in our house. I’m no bin expert, but the views are sharp.

(Pooh-Bah)

07/01/09 10:11 PM

Re: Pentax PCF (older versions)

The photo above is of a PCF 111 I believe, with the focus lock, traditional E.P's grey body and is Jap. made.
I currently have an earlier PCF 11 12x50 without focus lock but still with the grey body and tranditonal E.P's. Later Pentaxs had the ‘pop out’ E.Ps. The 12x50 I have got has a 5.5 FOV and a panoramic Afov of 66 degrees. The later 12x50's have a narrower 4.2 FOV but of course improved edge performance. The eye relief is medium. Optically it is good - sharp on axis with a contrasty image. There is deterioration from about 60% out. The image is still very usable. It has the SMC magenta lens coatings. Internal reflections are reasonably suppressed. These earlier versions are not fully W.P. but 'weather proof'. The Pentax PCF11 12x50 I have got appears to be a reasonably rare version and a ‘keeper’ due to its 5.5 FOV.

These earlier pentaxs are worth seeking out - if in good condition - they still offer impressive optical and build qualities at an affordable price.
There were no PCF 1 or 1V's.

Barry Simmons has an excellent historical review of the earlier Pentax models in the CN binocular mini review section - an article which I keep referring to.

Chris

35 binos.
80mm Cat.
WO66ED
SV NH 80mm / EQ3
Meade 8in.LX90
Skywatcher Equinox ED120 / Goto HEQ5.

(member)

07/03/09 01:58 PM

Re: Pentax PCF (older versions)

Thanks, everyone! I was looking at some of these on eBay, but ended up getting a pair of PCF WP II 12x50.

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