Binoculars
Leica Ultravid 10x42 HD with Free Collins Bird Guide 2010 Paperback Edn.

We have reviewed this binocular and first impressions are indeed favourable. The focusser has been improved with the end result being no backlash, and a standard similar to the latest Zeiss Victory...very pleasing indeed. Apparent brightness in the image has also improved slightly. It took a while to determine this, but eventually detected it on a very dull day. I didn't test the AquaDura capabilities though the image above clearly shows what it can do.

Previously, the Leica Ultravids have already impressed users with their superior optical quality. Now, with the innovative Ultravid HD models with 50, 42 and 32 mm objective diameters, the Leica engineers have once again set new standards.

New Flouride Lenses:

The use of new, fluoride lenses (FL) further optimizes the colour fidelity of the images. It has been possible to increase the level of image brightness – without compromising colour fidelity and contrast which are always necessary.

Improved Light Transmission:

In terms of stray light reduction too, the refined HD models achieve new top-of-the-range performance. Specially developed software simulation allows stray light to be seen during development stage. Consequently, thanks to an optimized housing shape, improved light-absorbing paint, apertures and stray light traps, the construction of the new HD models have been optimized to such a degree that stray light is (almost) no longer of any significance.

New AquaDura Coatings:

A further benefit in the Ultravid HD range Leica AquaDura™, a new kind of coating for exterior glass surfaces which improves viewing comfort. Fingerprints and dirt can be removed more easily than ever. Moisture simply rolls off the surface and visibility remains unimpaired. This has been made possible by a special glass surface structure. In a similar way to the lotus plant, dirt and moisture find it more difficult to take hold.

However, Leica AquaDura™ does not have any negative influence on the transmission performance of the optical system, and also provides better protection against scratching.

NEW Focussing Mechanism:

The mechanics for the Ultravid HD focusing have been further refined. As a result, focusing is even smoother and remains free of play across the entire range. Optimized material pairings and gliding discs made from extremely tough, high-performance plastic are used. In cold conditions, the conventional greased focusing mechanisms sometimes only work with difficulty, and at higher temperatures they move too freely. Furthermore, these focusing mechanisms can feel sticky and notchy, and at higher temperatures there is even the danger that grease can escape and run on the lens. With the optimized Leica focus, these risks have been eliminated. (Very welcome indeed).

Specification:

Weight in grams: 750
Field of view (m): 112
Eye relief (mm): 16 (with new improved eye cups)
Min focus (m): 2.9
HxW (mm): 120x147

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	03 September 2010