(super member)

07/02/09 01:28 AM

What's in your binocular collection?

Hi all,

I must admit that my favorite way to observe is through really good binoculars under pristine southern Arizona skies. In persueing that endeavor, I think I may have gone a little too far...

Canon 15x50 IS
Fujinon 10x70 FMT-SX
Pentax 7x50 PCF WP x2
Pentax 10x50 PCF WP II
Nikon 10x36 Sporter
Tasco 12x50 x2
Tasco 10x42
Rugged Exposure 10x50
Rugged Exposure 10x25
Rugged Exposure 10x30 monocular

Had
Apogee 20x100 w/nebula filters
Barska 20x80
Orion parrallelogram mount

Use at work
Orion 10x50 Scenix
Orion 20x80
Celestron 10x50

Whew...I THINK that's all!

I love both my Canon 15x50 IS and my Fujinon 10x70 FMT-SX! Between them, I find they show me everything I need to see outside of high power planetary observation. And really well at that!

I also use all the rest of the binos on a regular basis. There is a warm place in my heart for the Rugged Exposure 10x50 WA binos. They were the first and showed me the potential of binoculars. And I got 'em for twenty bucks!

So, what's in your binocular collection?

(Postmaster)

07/02/09 05:52 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

6.5x21 Pentax Papilios for hiking, close nature observing
5x30 Miyauchi Binons with 13 degree FOV for wide views heavens
8.5x42 SW ELs for most birding
8.5x44 Swift Audubons for all around work
10+15x50 Leicas for long distance birding
22x60 Miyauchis for 2 eyed spotting scope, public star parties
20/26/37x100 Miyauchi for smaller star parties
25x150 Fujis for the more serious stuff

edj

(Vendor)

07/02/09 06:43 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Vortex Razor 8x42
Pentax 10x50 DCF SP
Garrett Signature 15x70
Garrett GT70/90°
Garrett GT100/45°

Just trying others out at the moment. I use all of them. I get enjoyment from using my scopes but pleasure from using my binocs.

BEWARE! I didn't have a "collection" before joining CN binocular forum

("Astronomical Tourist")

07/02/09 08:25 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Glen, et al;

Well, we are walking different paths, I have cut down my number of binoculars to two.

Orion Savannah 8X42
Leupold Olympic 10X50

The wide field of the 8X42's are a real joy and a fun way to scan along the Milky Way. The 10X50's are brand new and I am stunned at how good they are, excellent star images with amazing contrast. I look forward to enjoying them over the years.

For me, I found that I liked my ED80 better for wide field views at higher powers than the 10X50 binoculars. I know it is viewing with only one eye, but I found my large binoculars too clumbsy to use and so I sold them.

Clear skies to us all;
Steve Coe

(scholastic sledgehammer)

07/02/09 12:07 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Welcome jeronimo, and glad to hear that you also enjoy the clear desert skies and 2-eyed views

I will try to be more like Steve in the future, to be sure that I have a stable or toolbox rather than a collection...

11x80, 10x50 and 7x50 Porros that are all impressive mounted (just had them under nice dark skies at Great Basin National Park, enjoyed lunar detail before moon set and Milky Way lit up), 7x50 stays by back window daytime as well

8x40 older wide Porro that stay on kitchen windowsill for day use and quick peeks at backyard night sky; new 8x42 roofs for both uses as well.

old 11.9° extra-wide 6x42 IF for dark sky use on Milky way

several 7x35 of various FOV and weight, some are nice for worry free kids use, and ones with wider fields pull up lots of satellites, I need to pick 1 or 2 and donate or sell others...

Papilio 6.5x21 reverse Porro, for hiking & nature study, with the 8x roof tagging along if we don't mind more weight.

The Paragon p-mount is best bino accessory I have, can use the 11x80 on that to easily share views, sometimes with a wider x50 or x42 on a separate elevator photo tripod at same time.

(scholastic sledgehammer)

07/02/09 12:22 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Hello

It has been weeks, since I have enjoyed a clear night. By this time of the year, even a clear sky is not very inviting. However, I use the following for night time binocular use:
12x50 on a monopod
15x60 on a tripod
7x42

Clear skies,
Arthur Pinewood

(Carpal Tunnel)

07/02/09 02:19 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Sky:

Celestron 10x50
Alderblick 7x50

Both being "replaced" by the UPS person with Nikon 12x50 SE tomorrow!

Dual use:

Leica 10x42 BA
Zeiss 7x42 BGAT

Birds/animal/etc:

B&L Audubon 7x26
Pentax Paplio 8.5 x something

B&L 10x40 Custom
Swift Audubon 8.5x44
Swift Audubon 8.5x44 ED
Swift Audubon 8.5x44 Roof
Zeiss 8x30 BGAT
Nikon 8x32 SE

(member)

07/02/09 06:49 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I am mostly a hunter and farmer, with a lot of wildlife. I have put together a range as follows. I haven't got into stargazing but should with no light pollution in rural ND.

Nikon 7x35 Naturalist II
Leica 8x20 Trinovid.
Nikon 8x25 Travellite.
Nikon 8x32 SE
Swarovski. 8.5 x42 EL
Nikon 8x40 Action
Nikon 10x42 SE
Steiner 10x50 Nighthunter
Nikon 12x50 Action.

(professor emeritus)

07/02/09 11:22 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Bushnell Broadfield Compact 7x25 - Have them for over 40 years.

OB 20x80 Standards

GBT 100/45

Canon 15x50IS

For everyday observing, day or night, the Canon is attached to my hip.

Beachchairbill

(Pooh-Bah)

07/02/09 11:59 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I recently reorganised my bin collection and sold of some of my earlier Japanese binos. My collection is down to about 25 now.
My top 15 or so now are:

Oberwerk 100 /45 degree B.T's.
Oberwerk 100x25
Triplet 20x80
Horizon 15x80 [Jap.]
Oberwerk 10x50 and 15x70 Ultras
Nikon 10x70 IF HP WP
Minox BD 10x58 ED BR
Pentax PCF 11 20x60 and PCF 11 12x50
Nikon 10x56 Monarchs
Nikon 'Lookout' 10x50
B. and L. Legacy 10x50
Carl Zeiss 10x40B T*P* and 10x50W Jenoptem
Leica 10x42 BA
Minolta Activa 10x40
Vixen Apex Pro 10x42
and some other recent roofs a Olympus EXWP-1 10X42 and a Stenier SkyHawk 10x42.

It is an obsession combined with a sickness !

Chris

(GorillAstronomer)

07/03/09 12:56 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Hmmm, it is a bit sobering when you start listing all of them

Miyauchi Saturn III (39/54/75/150 x 100)
Miyauchi Exceeds (20/30 x 77 )
Takahashi Astronomer (22x60)
Oberwerk 25x100 IF
Oberwerk 20x80LW
Canon 18x50 IS
Garrett 11x56
Leica UltraVids 10x42
Celestron Regal 10x42
Celestron Regal 8x42
Carson 8.5 x 42
Pentax Papilio 6.5 x 21
Miyauchi Binon 5 x 30
Constellation View 2.3x 40
half-dozen other miscellaneous binos collecting dust (and probably for good reason).

The two big Miya binos and the Canon's get the most use by far, with the Garrett's almost always around my neck when I'm looking through scopes. The Papilio is my favorite day-time binocular when I go on nature walks. I think quite a bit of consolidation is going to (needs to) take place soon!!

(super member)

07/03/09 06:35 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I've just got the Italian brand 22x85 of the giant binoculars BA8 Series (united optic factory).
I also own the 10x50 of the same line.

So, my astro-gear outfit has eventually reached the final configuration.
Two binos in total.

10x50 is mainly used to wander through the night sky.
The 22x85 will be soon used to see the sky in details.

(Postmaster)

07/03/09 07:21 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

"has ......reached the final configuration"

(Post Laureate)

07/03/09 07:43 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

8x32 Zeiss Victory T*FL (most used, gen purpose, hunting)
7x42 Leitz Trinovid (~20 years old classic style, old most used)
10x50 Nikon AE (big picture context when astro observing)
8x20 Nikon LXL (pocket for travel etc.)
8x25 Nikon Sportstar (got cheap, sorta OK)
16x70 Fujinon (Astro on a parallelogram)
6.5x21 Pentax Papilio (novelty, examining toenails, etc.)
7x35 Bushnell Citation (willed to me by a late friend)
8x20 Bushnell Roofs ??? (circa 1980?)

(recently sold 15x50 Canon IS, the only bins I ever sold. OK but didn't like em.)

(professor emeritus)

07/03/09 08:25 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Barska Xtrail 20x80 - 2 years old, my first big bino..still use them regularly.
Fujinon 16x70 - Rave reviews are well founded.
GO 12x60 - Very good binoculars but hardly use them anymore (they need to be mounted, and I always pick up the Fuji if I am going through all this trouble)
Swift 8x42 WA - Nice 70* FOV for hand-held wanderings.

Cheap7x35, 10x50 - in my car trunk.

(sage)

07/03/09 12:09 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Just starting out.

Here is what I have acquired so far.
- Celestron SkyMaster 15x70mm on a Velbon C-600 tripod
- Nikon Action 10x50mm

(Pooh-Bah)

07/03/09 12:45 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Excellent Binoculars

Canon 15X50 IS - best binocular Astro views without a tripod.
Celestron Regal LX 8X42 - excellent daytime waterproof binos.

Cheap but usable

Bauer optics 8X21 - compact, gift from Celebrity Cruises
Bushnell powerview, 7-15X25 - kids like them.

Cheap

Bushnell imageview 10X25 - gimmick

Junk!!!

Focal DR-1025Ruby Coated 10X25- $12.00 paper weight.

CS

(sage)

07/03/09 01:44 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I just got all the BA8 series binoculars in the higher magnifications:
10x50
15x70
22x85
28x110
two BA6:
20/40x100
and the new 45º150mm
also
a 45º 30x120 oberwerk
and my beloved 25x150MT Fujinon

I think I'll just stop collecting binoculars for a while

and expecting my future APO refractor telescope (203mm f=9)

Andrés

(Post Laureate)

07/03/09 01:56 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Zeiss 10x25 B TP Classic
Zeiss 7x42 FL
Zeiss 8x42 FL
Zeiss 10x42 FL

Swarovski 8.5x42 EL
Swarovski 10x42 EL

Leica 8x20 BCA
Leica 10x25 BCA
Leica 10x32 BA
Leica 8x42 BN
Leica 12x50 BA

Canon 15x50 IS

Kowa 32x82 Highlander Prominar

Nikon 10x42 SE
Nikon 12x50 SE

Fujinon 10x70 FMT-XL

Orion 8x32 Savannah Roof
Orion 8x42 Savannah Roof
Orion 10x50 Savannah Roof x 2
Orion 10x50 Savannah Porro
Orion 8x42 Ultraview
Orion 15x63 Mini-Giant
Orion 20x70 BT-70

Celestron 9x63 Ultima
Celestron 10x50 Ultima

B&L 7x26 Custom

Rich

(Professor EdZ)

07/03/09 01:59 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

that's like ? what, about $15,000 worth of binoculars!!!

(member)

07/03/09 02:16 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Rich: That is quite a collection, you should line them all up and take a picture. They say its a good way of keeping track for your homeowners insurance. But with the value of all of those you may need to list them to insure them if you are wanting full coverage. Which are your favorites and what get the most use?

(Post Laureate)

07/03/09 02:23 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I try not to think about the dollar amount. :-)

I've been buying them over a number of years.

(Post Laureate)

07/03/09 02:30 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Thank you! It would be good to make a current photo.

The Zeiss 10x42 FL I use the most, for both astronomy and birding. I love the Canon 15x50 IS. The Kowa is outstanding but I need to come up with a different mount.

Rich

(super member)

07/03/09 03:14 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I consider my collection complete since I got a good pair of binoviewers for high mag.

Canon 10x42L
Zeiss 15x60 GAT
Takahashi Astronomers 22x60

(Pooh-Bah)

07/03/09 04:08 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Just a sampling - these are classic Japanese. There are others.

(sage)

07/03/09 09:06 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Hiking and wildlife viewing (where space and weight is a premium) Bushnell Legend 8x26

Sports and short hikes Nikon 7x35 Action Extreme

Wildlife and handheld astronomy Bushnell Legend 8x42 Porro

Wildlife,Handheld astronomy and use with Monopod Leopold Mesa 10x50

Astronomy with Tripod or wildlife with monopod Garrett 15x70 Lightweight

(Carpal Tunnel)

07/04/09 12:19 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Quote:

Just a sampling - these are classic Japanese. There are others.

Nice collection of Japanese binoculars, the Tasco 20x60 is a desirable addition to any binocular totem pole.

(GorillAstronomer)

07/04/09 05:48 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Quote:

that's like ? what, about $15,000 worth of binoculars!!!

Yes, well you did see his name, right? I don't recall his sig. saying:

Poor N

(member)

07/04/09 08:51 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

A partial list:

inclined
Nife 8x50 90 o
Russian 12x60 60 o
Miyauchi 20x77 45 o
Russian 10x80 45 o
Gamma 10x80 90 o
Miyauchi fluorite 20/26/37x100 45 o

Leitz Trinovid 8x40
Carl Zeiss 7x50
Zeiss Jenoptem 10x50
Carl Zeiss 10x50
Zeiss Super Nobilem 8x50
Zeiss Super Nobilem 12x50

Sard 6x42 12 deg TFOV
Asahi Pentax 7x35 11 deg TFOV
Asahi Pentax 8x40 9.5 deg TFOV
Binolux 7x35 11 deg TFOV
Tasco 7x35 11 deg TFOV
Ross Mark IV and V 5x40 11 deg TFOV
Barr & Stroud GK5 6x42 10.2 deg TFOV

And many more not really suitable for astronomy

Kevin

(professor emeritus)

07/04/09 09:38 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

In my sig...

(member)

07/04/09 11:56 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

6x30 yosemite,
7x50 WO,
8x20 trinovid,
8x42 bushnell legend,
10x42 ultravid,
15x70 GO SS.

10x42 the most used. 70% birding 30% astronomy
7x50 mainly used for grab and go astronomy approx. 40% of astronomy time
15x70 love to use it but needs to be mounted to get the most detail. used 30% of my astronomy time.

in the future I will consider a more powerful and large aperture binocular, for DSO's and comets, perhaps something in the 22 to 32 magnification range. although i love quality, i'm penny wise and still undecided.

(Post Laureate)

07/06/09 10:32 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Family photo.

I'm not sure where I put the B&L 7x26 Custom so it isn't in the photo. I did remember I had not counted a Leica 8x42BA that I will be giving to my nephew.

(Post Laureate)

07/06/09 10:34 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

From the front.

(Post Laureate)

07/06/09 10:36 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Spread out.

(super member)

07/06/09 10:44 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

WOW!!!

Which is your favorite one?

(member)

07/06/09 10:45 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Rich N:
Wow! Its fun to look at the large collection. Do you keep adding or do you thin some out as you replace?

(Post Laureate)

07/06/09 10:49 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I've given away a few over the years. I don't buy to collect. I buy binoculars I want to use and that I find interesting.

Rich

(Post Laureate)

07/06/09 10:56 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

My favorite may be the Zeiss 10x42 FL (at the bottom of the pile on the right).

Rich

(member)

07/07/09 12:10 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

I'm very happy with my collection of three, chosen largely as a result of reading many CN reviews and preferences.

Canon 10x30 IS
Fujinon 7x50 FMT-SX
Fujinon 10x70 FMT-SX

The Canon and the 70mm Fuji were purchased used for very reasonable sums and are in great shape. I might be missing an ideal pair for birdwatching, but either of the smaller pair work pretty well even for that. Even my wife gushed over the daytime view through the 70mm Fuji's, and she never liked any pair of binoculars before that.

(professor emeritus)

07/07/09 07:35 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Likewise, very happy with my modest collection chosen after reading many reviews on CN and no plans to add to it-

Fujinon 8x30 FMT-SX
Fujinon 10x50 FMT-SX
Fujinon 16x70 FMT-SX
Garrett Optical 30x100 Gemini

Also have an older 15x70 which i'm looking to sell (helios stellar).

Love the 10x50's for handheld sweeping from a reclining chair and using the mounted 16x70, 30x100 or my dob to inspect smaller objects.

Thanks to all the guys (especially Edz) who post reviews here on CN so guys like me can choose the bino that is right for them and not waste money and time experimenting!

(Pooh-Bah)

07/07/09 08:26 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Just 2-1/2:

Zeiss 15X60B
Nikon 10X42
Zeiss 8X30B (monocular)

(sage)

07/16/09 07:28 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Miranda 10x50 with gold coated optics - first bins given to me by my Dad.
Opicron imagic 8x42
Zeiss 10x56 fl
Nikon 12x50 se
Leica 10x50 ultravid
Swarovski 15x56 SLCneu
Tak Astronomers 22x60
Nikon astrolux 10x70
Pentax papilo 6.5x21

(Not Retired!, But a little cranky!!!)

07/16/09 08:57 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

About a week ago, I edited my signature down to list only the "best" I have at this time. What binoculars I will add to my "collection" remains to be seen. However, a Fujinon 16x70 is definitely on the wish-list.

Clear skies!

(Pooh-Bah)

07/17/09 09:38 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Quote:

Excellent Binoculars

Canon 15X50 IS - best binocular Astro views without a tripod.
Celestron Regal LX 8X42 - excellent daytime waterproof binos.

Cheap but usable

Bauer optics 8X21 - compact, gift from Celebrity Cruises
Bushnell powerview, 7-15X25 - kids like them.

Cheap

Bushnell imageview 10X25 - gimmick

Junk!!!

Focal DR-1025Ruby Coated 10X25- $12.00 paper weight.

CS

There is an addition to the Astro line-up,
Minox BD 15X58 ED BR. These are excellent Astro binos, mounted the view is like the Canon 15X50 IS but brighter.
CS

(professor emeritus)

07/17/09 08:35 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Started out buying cheap binoculars, now I have started buying some mid-grade bins.

Nikon 7x35 Actions
Nikon 7x50 Actions
Orion 10x50 Scenix
Celestron 15x70 Skymasters
Celestron 10x50 Noble
Oberwerk 20x60
Pentax 12x50 PCF WP II
Zhumell 20x80

I just got the Pentax and the Oberwerk's 2 days ago, and really like both.

Ken

(super member)

07/18/09 12:52 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Hi all,

I just added some Astro-Physics 15x70 and Pentax 10x50 DCF SP binos!

I just couldn't resist!

And I love the Pentax! Awesome!

(member)

07/18/09 10:12 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

See my signature for my collection, tend to do mainly nature/landscape but some astronomy too, need some larger bins for that tho!

(Pooh-Bah)

07/18/09 11:49 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

My binocular collection has been stable for a while.

5x32 Miyauchi Binon
6x16 Vixen Monocular (ok not bino

6.5x21 Pentax Papilio
7x50 Miyauchi Binon
7x50 Nikon ProStar
8-24x25 Nikon
10x42 Canon IS
10x50 Pentax ED
11x80 Parks
16x70 Fujinon
18x50 Canon IS
20x125 Vixen

I use ProStar most for astronomy, Pentax ED for general purpose from binoculars.

I use 66,80,102,130,152mm refractors, 260mm Cass/Mak with binoviewers for astronomy more than binoculars.

Tammy

(member)

07/18/09 04:46 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Quote:

My binocular collection has been stable for a while.

5x32 Miyauchi Binon
6x16 Vixen Monocular (ok not bino
6.5x21 Pentax Papilio
7x50 Miyauchi Binon
7x50 Nikon ProStar
8-24x25 Nikon
10x42 Canon IS
10x50 Pentax ED
11x80 Parks
16x70 Fujinon
18x50 Canon IS
20x125 Vixen

I use ProStar most for astronomy, Pentax ED for general purpose from binoculars.

I use 66,80,102,130,152mm refractors, 260mm Cass/Mak with binoviewers for astronomy more than binoculars.

Tammy

I need to show your list to justify for another pair of binoculars. I got only 3 pairs. The most expensive one is the newly acquired Zen-Ray ED 10x43.

(professor emeritus)

07/19/09 02:28 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Here's my collection.

(Carpal Tunnel)

07/19/09 11:06 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Here's my collection:

Self-improved 10X50mm Simmons- $24
10X50 Nikon Actions- free from a friend

The views and joy they bring, priceless

(sage)

07/20/09 08:38 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

As with some others here, my collection needs to be thinned out

That said, here's what we have:

Kronos *BPWC2 12.5° 6x30
Minox *BD IF 6.5x32
Binolux LiteWt EWA 10.5° 7x35
Binolux LiteWt EWA 11° 7x35
Jason Statesman #138 11.5° 7x35
ZenRay ED BN-ZEN2-7x36 7x36
Swarovski *SLC 7x42
Leupold Yosemite 8x30
Pentax DCF-WP 8x32
Carson SW-842 11° 8.5x42
Pentax UCF-Mini 9x21
Leupold *Gold Ring IF 9x35
Orion MiniGiants 9x63

Those with an asterisk are my regular use bins. The Zen-Ray is on order with an expected August delivery.

Had:
Pentax DCF 8x42
Vortex Diamondback 10x42
Tasco 10x50 (1980 el cheapo model)

(member)

07/22/09 10:37 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Patrick,

I noticed your line, "Self-improved 10X50mm Simmons- $24."
I have a copy of the Simmons 10x5's, too. I think they were called the "Red Line" model. I've found them to be very nice binoculars, too, and I paid little more than you did.
What is your "self-improvement" to your 10x50's?

Mike Lynch
Frankfort KY USA

(super member)

08/31/09 12:22 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

My dogs just ate my Nikon Sporter binos after I left them overnight in the porch .

RIP.

Well, at least I have an excuse to buy another

!

(Post Laureate)

08/31/09 04:01 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Nikon 8x30 EII
Swift Audubon 8.5x44 (804r)
Nikon 18x70

I'm getting a seriously sore neck sketching through the 18x70s though (like can't move my head in comfort the next day). Perhaps a Kowa Highlander is in order?

-- Jeff.

(sage)

08/31/09 05:29 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

My collection is:

My binoculars favorite:
Goerz Trieder 12x20 1897 (Porro)
Dollond 8x20 1895 (Porro)
Goerz Pagor 8x15 1910 (Porro)
Zeiss Silvamar 6x30 1912 (Porro)
Goerz Wien M.9 6x30 1917 (Porro)
Goerz Helinox 6x30 1918 (Porro)
Goerz Heli-Trieder 8x26 1920 (Porro)
San Giorgio Mega 8,5x30 1944 (Porro)
Zeiss Dialyt "Safari" Green (Aeritalia) 8x30 1972 (roof)

If these binoculars could tell their story:
Goerz Neo-Trieder 6x21 1908 (Porro)
Goerz Armee Trieder Mod.1908 8x26 1908(Porro)
Busch Fernglas08 6x39 1914 (galileian)
Zeiss Silvarem 6x30 1914 (Porro)
Goerz Marine Trieder 8x30 1915 (Porro)
Goerz Armee Trieder artigliery 8x26 1917 (Porro)
Kershaw 6x23 1917 (Porro)
Dollond 8x25 1918 (Porro)

All others:
Dollond 5x46 1900 (Galileian)
Hall & Holtz 3x30 1900 (Galileian)
LeMaire fabt. 3x40 1900 (Galileian)
Zenith 10x50 1970 (Porro)
Samsung 7x25 1990 (Porro)
Meade 10x50 2005 (Porro)
Konus Giant 20x80 2007(Porro)

(super member)

08/31/09 07:00 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Very impressive inventory! How did you obtain the antique binoculars? Where any used in a world war? How have they aged?

Which is your favorite?

(journeyman)

08/31/09 09:42 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Leitz Mardocit 12X60 Late 1940's (a favorite)
Zeiss Jena Jenoptem 10X50W 1980 (a favorite)
Leitz Dienstglas 10X50 IF 1940-41
Schutz Kassel Heliolith 10X50 1920's-30's (earlier??)
Nippon Kokagu Nikon J-B7 9X35 late 1960's
Ross Stepruva 9X35 late 1940's-early 50's
Swift Audubon 804 Mod A (Type 1c) 8.5X44 1968-1970
Pecar 8X40 1980's-early 1990's
Nippon Kokagu Nikon J-B7 8X30 late 1960's
Zeiss Jena Jenoptem 8X30W 1980
Zeiss Jena Deltrintem 8X30 1946
Schutz Kassel Heliolith 8X32 1920's-30's
Ross Stereo Prism Power 8 8X24 early 1920's
Ross Stereo Prism Power 8 8X24 1913 (different design than 1920's model, larger, heavier)
Zeiss Jena Jenoptem 7X50W 1980
Nippon Kokagu J-B7 7X50 (early 1960's)(a favorite)
Ross Steplux 7X50 Porro II late 1940's-early 50's (a favorite)
Piedmont 7X50 1952-1958
Nikon 7X35E late 1980's (a favorite)
Bausch and Lomb Zephyr 7X35 (early 1980's)
Ross Stepnada 7X30 late 1940`s
Barr & Stroud CF 10 6x30.5 1960`s
Zeiss Silvarem 6X30 1914 (a favorite)
Zeiss Silvamar 6X30 1940
Leupold Yosemite 6X30 Purchased new, on the way!
Zeiss DF 6X24 6X24 1917
Ross Officer`s Binocular Territorial Army (Galilean) 4(?)X39 1909
Ross Solaross 15X40 mid 1950's-1971
Kronos 20X60 After 1991

That's it for now.

I've been able to collect quite a bit of information about most of these binoculars except the Schutz Kassel, Pecar and Piedmont. Schutz Kassel was an early German manufacturer of binoculars but ceased operation after WWII. Very unique prism configuration. Pecar was a well-known West German manufacturer of quality rifle scopes until about 2007 but this is the only binocular manufactured by them I have ever encountered. The Piedmont was one of the gidzillion binoculars made in Japan in the 1950's. I'd like to know more about it because its optics are surprisingly good - almost on par with the East German Zeiss, Ross and Nikons of the same period.

(sage)

09/01/09 02:48 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Some of binoculars were actually used in World War 1, particularly those Goerz (Army and Marine Trieder) and Busch (Fernglas08) are binoculars that are visible in photographs of the neck of the military(I have many photos of 1WW).
The date of manufacture is identified by number (usually) but often were engraved on the binoculars (Goerz, Busch and Zeiss) the month and year of delivery to the Army (I have some examples of my binoculars).

My favorite is the Marine Trieder Goerz 6x30 (waterproof and airtight) you see on this link: http://quasar.teoth.it/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=111
The Goerz made two or three models Marine Trieder but what I have is one of the rarest on the market because it has a lens hood and front internal different from most other Goerz binoculars and alternative brands.

bye

(sage)

09/01/09 02:49 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Great collection !!!!!

Compliments !
bye

(super member)

09/01/09 09:28 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

(super member)

09/01/09 09:33 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

You know, you should open up your own binocular museum! Very nice collection! Do you have any pictures for us?

(sage)

09/01/09 01:54 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

See mine below!

(journeyman)

09/01/09 02:15 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Jeronimoctucson: I will be retiring soon, and the posting pictures along with information about each binocular is at the top of my to-do list.

Simon S: Your site is terrific. Since joining this forum several weeks ago, I have enjoyed and consulted it numerous times. I hope I can do at least half as well! Why do you enjoy collecting binoculars? For me it seems to be a congruence between a love of the outdoors, an interest in history, an enjoyment of fine precision instruments, and a penchant for mechanical tinkering.

(super member)

09/02/09 10:17 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

It's amazing what CN members have in their collection! I only have a measly three.

Bushnell 10x50WA
Parks 15x80
Orion 25x100

(sage)

09/02/09 12:59 PM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Hi FrankL , I get great enjoyment of restoring good quality instruments. I do get obsessed with collecting and kept off ebay for a month to try and calm my spending spree.

(sage)

09/23/09 06:14 PM

Any new entry ...

My collection it's changed:

My binoculars favorite:
Goerz Trieder 12x20 1897 (Porro)
Dollond 8x20 1895 (Porro)
Goerz Pagor 8x15 1910 (Porro)
Zeiss Silvamar 6x30 1912 (Porro)
Goerz Wien M.9 6x30 1917 (Porro)
Goerz Helinox 6x30 1918 (Porro)
Goerz Heli-Trieder 8x26 1920 (Porro)
San Giorgio Mega 8,5x30 1944 (Porro)
Zeiss Dialyt "Safari" Green (Aeritalia) 8x30 1972 (roof)

If these binoculars could tell their story:
Ross prismatic 10x20 1900 (Porro)
Hensoldt Wetlar 8x20 1908 (Porro)
Goerz Neo-Trieder 6x21 1908 (Porro)
Goerz Armee Trieder Mod.1908 8x26 1908(Porro)
Goerz Helinox 8x38 1911 (Porro)
Busch Fernglas08 6x39 1914 (galileian)
Zeiss Silvarem 6x30 1914 (Porro)
Baush&Lomb 6x30 1917 (Porro)
Goerz Marine Trieder 8x30 1915 (Porro)
Goerz Armee Trieder artigliery 8x26 1917 (Porro)
Kershaw 6x23 1917 (Porro)
Dollond 8x25 1918 (Porro)
Goerz Unipont 3x30 1924 (Galileian)

All others:
Dollond 5x46 1900 (Galileian)
Hall & Holtz 3x30 1900 (Galileian)
LeMaire fabt. 3x40 1900 (Galileian)
Zenith 10x50 1970 (Porro)
Samsung 7x25 1990 (Porro)
Meade 10x50 2005 (Porro)
Konus Giant 20x80 2007(Porro)

Bye

(Adrenaline Junkie)

10/05/09 07:40 PM

Re: Any new entry ...

Wow! Those are some amazing collections!

My list is short:

Garrett Signature 22x85 HD-WP
MINOX HG 10x52 BR
Orion Mini Giant 15x63

(sage)

10/06/09 03:05 PM

Re: Any new entry ...

After an update here are mine.
Collecting can become addictive.
My collection

(sage)

10/07/09 01:58 AM

Re: Any new entry ...

My collection it's changed 7oct2009:

My historical bins:
Voigtlander 9x20 1895 (Porro)
Dollond 8x20 1895 (Porro)
Goerz Trieder 12x20 1897 (Porro)
Dollond 5x46 1900 (Galileian)
Hall & Holtz 3x30 1900 (Galileian)
LeMaire fabt. 3x40 1900 (Galileian)
Ross prismatic 10x20 1900 (Porro)
Hensoldt Wetlar 8x20 1908 (Porro)
Goerz Neo-Trieder 6x21 1908 (Porro)
Goerz Armee Trieder Mod.1908 8x26 1908(Porro)
Goerz Pagor 8x15 1910 (Porro)
Goerz Helinox 8x38 1911 (Porro)
Zeiss Silvamar 6x30 1912 (Porro)
Busch Fernglas08 6x39 1914 (Galileian)
Zeiss Silvarem 6x30 1914 (Porro)
Goerz Marine Trieder 8x30 1915 (Porro)
Kershaw 6x23 1917 (Porro)
Goerz Armee Trieder wih reticolular 8x26 1917 (Porro)
Goerz Wien M.9 6x30 1917 (Porro)
Goerz Helinox 6x30 1918 (Porro)
Dollond 8x25 1918 (Porro)
Bausch & Lomb 6x30 1918 (Porro)
Goerz Heli-Trieder 8x26 1920 (Porro)
Goerz Unipont 3x30 1924 (Galileian)
San Giorgio Mega 8,5x30 1944 (Porro)

All others:
Zenith 10x50 1970 (Porro)
Samsung 7x25 1990 (Porro)
Zeiss Dialyt "Safari" Green (Aeritalia) 8x30 1972 (Roof prism)
Meade 10x50 2005 (Porro)
Konus Giant 20x80 2007(Porro)

Bye

(sage)

10/07/09 02:59 AM

Re: What's in your binocular collection?

Just the Fuji's in my sig line for now.

I feel so . . . undercollected. But I'm getting a 16x70 FMT-SX in a week or so and that should help!

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