PRO BIRDER: The legend grows - SWAROVSKI OPTIk's EL binocular range still as popular as ever after 8 years
1 June 2023
Sponsored Feature By Alex James
Sponsored Feature By Alex James
The EL family from Swarovski Optik recently celebrated its eighth birthday, and if we're being honest - this binocular range has probably now reached legendary status as it's still as popular today as it was back in 2015.
Here at Bird-Watchers.com we decided to take a closer look at the endearing features of a binocular range which remains a staple tool for experienced birders the world over.
Design and long-lasting functionality
Birders and especially experienced birders require their binoculars to be a cut above the rest when it comes to observing birdlife.
When SWAROVSKI OPTIK set out to design the original EL's back in the late 90's they had specific requirements in mind to make the EL's ideal for birders' needs.
SWAROVSKI took their time before expanding on the original models with the new EL brief including a large focusing button, two independent objective tubes connected by a slim bridge, a swift focusing mechanism and above all - to make them as light weight as possible.
Perhaps the biggest technical challenge with this model of binocular for SWAROVSKI engineers and designers was to transfer the entire movement of the focusing mechanism through a very thin bridge. This they did, with remarkable efficiency and it is perhaps this high complexity level that has prevented the EL's from being copied.
Birders have since built up a trust the EL Family of binoculars to share special birding moments in every exciting detail. Anyone who picks up a pair of EL binoculars can sense immediately that SWAROVSKI OPTIK has invested both time and money in future-oriented technologies and master craftsmanship.
The result, even in 2021 when the brand is excelling in its product range with the likes of the NL Pure and 115 module is still a very good interaction between optics, ergonomics and functionality all rolled into a masterly crafted design that stands out with its subtle dark green elegance.
SWAROVISON technology
The EL family of binocular utilises SWAROVISION technology. Simply put, a term used by the brand which encompasses a combination of field flattener lenses made with fluoride which, combined with long eye relief of 20mm and optimised coatings, brings total ease of use to the observer and ensures fascinating experiences in the great outdoors.
This technology brings pin-sharp contours, high-contrast, and true-to-life, distortion-free images allowing you to make out every detail – right up to the edges.
Which model is right for me?
EL 42 binoculars are for those birders who are looking for an all-rounder. combine size, weight, and optical performance to give the perfect product. They are multipurpose and reliable, suitable for use both during the day and at twilight. Nature lovers appreciate the unique close-up setting of 3.3 m and the rapid, precise focusing mechanism.
EL 50 binoculars offer a strong magnification and excellent sharpness of detail – just perfect when observing over long distances or at twilight. The most compact 50-mm binoculars that are second-to-none. They impress with their perfect weight balance and allow you to hold them steadily in your hand. Larger exit pupils also provide brighter images at twilight.
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