Product Description

Designed as compact porro-prism binoculars with a sturdy all-metal body this tool is the ideal companion when magnification is required really quickly. The distinct advantages of this compact and reliable partner particularly come to light in situations which do not permit the use of a complete outfit, due to space and weight restrictions. Intended for such places as the golf course or at the horse races, in a theater, enjoying open-air concerts, or during a sightseeing tour, these classic MINOX binoculars are the perfect and adequate optical instrument. Its low magnification power makes the BD 6 x 20 CP practically shake-free. Folding rubber eyecups provide ideal viewing for people wearing glasses.With their slender and compact features these binoculars belong to the renowned porro family and are designed with a sturdy all-metal body. Distinguished by a nostalgic chrome look which reflects the flair of the fifties and sixties, it is a real eye-catcher for all ages. ... Read more

Product Description

Recognizing trends and responding to these with innovative products this is a field in which MINOX excels. In a new line of field glasses the optics specialists from Wetzlar have now brought out two all-round binoculars of the 42 class, which, in spite of their exceptional performance data, are extreme lightweights. The MINOX BD 8x42 BL and BD 10x42 BL are two perfect companions for the price and weight-conscious outdoor enthusiast who does not want to compromise when it comes to optical quality.The L for Light in the binocular name is based on the robust body of polycarbonate. With its rubber armouring and ergonomic design this optical masterpiece lies steady and sure in the observer's hand, thanks to its low weight. And it is virtually indestructible a new generation in MINOX sport optics. In addition to this, the 8x42 BL and the 10x42 BL are watertight to a depth of five meters as a result of the sophisticated sealing technology developed by MINOX engineersThe new developed optical systems with high light-gathering power have multicoated lens elements which guarantee highest optical performance and natural color rendition of the object in view. Thanks to the roof prisms with phase-correction coating the user is able to enjoy an image with exceptionally high detail rendition and excellent contrast, even when light conditions are bad. An argon filling inside the binoculars prevents fogging of the glass surfaces, even with extreme temperature fluctuations ... Read more

Product Description

Small, fine and watertight: the binoculars 8x25 and 10x25 are the new MINOX Compact Class... MINOX compact binoculars are in a class of their own: high-quality, top-of-the-range technology packed into the smallest dimensions, versatile and robust. During the development of the latest pocket binoculars BD 8x25 BR W and BD 10x25 BR W the optics specialists at MINOX added an extra highlight.In spiteof the extremely small dimensions, these binoculars not only boast outstanding features and performance data their watertightness is virtually a novel feature for binoculars of this size.By applying a unique, newly-developed sealing technology MINOX engineers have been able to make the sturdy and rubber armoured metal body resistant to the penetration of water down to a depth of five meters, rendering these precision tools from Wetzlar well-suited for extreme wind and weather conditions in which they do not have to stay in the protective case.People wearing glasses will be particularly keen to see the new compact binoculars from MINOX, as their extended eye relief guarantees the entire field of view without vignetting, also at a distance of up to 17 millimeters. This means maximum enjoyment for those with eyeglasses.Extendible rubber eyecups offer the user additional comfort and convenience in that the distance to the eyes can be individually adjusted. An extremely short close-up range of two meters makes it possible to view even small o ... Read more

Product Description

They impressively combine the classic MINOX values of outstanding optical performance and precision-engineering in a compact design: The MINOX BD 8x32 BR, BD 8.5x42 BR and BD 10x42 BR binoculars. Numerous functional innovations make them ideal in all manner of activities - from bird-watching to wildlife viewing to following sporting events. The internal nitrogen filling which prevents fogging of the lenses and the total water resistance of the rubber reinforced aluminium body ensure unrestricted use of these high-quality optical devices. The costly lens system with additional lens for dust-free internal focusing, and the phase-corrected ridge prisms with their silver-coated ridge surfaces, make the compact construction of these high-performance binoculars possible. The uniquely high light transmission, the convincing color accuracy and brilliance of the reproduction and the sharpness of the contrast, even down to details, are out-standing application. This is made possible by the multi-layer M* coating, which is proven worldwide, and is applied to all transparent lenses and prism surfaces. The eyepieces for wearers of spectacles, with 4 lenses in 3 groups, are calculated to give the user of MINOX binoculars the greatest possible use and offer an extremely wide field of vision, for example 131 m for the D 8x32 BR to 1000 m. Combined with the ly devel-oped, continuously movable eyepiece cups, they can immediately be used by eyeglass wearers. ... Read more

Features

• Advanced optical system employing three lenses for a light and high contrast view
• Our newest coating system for all prisms increases contrast even at twilight and dawn
• Rubber reinforced aluminum body for long life and mechanical stability
• Ergonomic design with central focussing wheel
• Dust-free and waterproof up to 16.4 ft.

Features

• Fogproof
• Water Resistant

Features

• 3.2 megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 8 x 10 prints and medium-quality prints up to 11 x 14
• 3x optical plus 2x digital zoom lens (for 6x total) with autofocus
• Internal 8 MB memory, expandable via CompactFlash (Type1) memory cards
• Connects to PCs via USB port
• Powered by 4 AA batteries (alkalines included; rechargeables recommended)

Reviews (2)

Nifty feature filled with all the Pixels you really need
It's an interesting camera made by the Minox folks. The close up is amazing as it is a true "thru the lens" viewfinder, similar to an SLR. Not mentioned is the manual lens cap, remember to remove it. It uses 4 AA cells, lithium last longest. Case is really odd and semi useless, no handle or strap. Camera looks and feels good. Plug in sockets for AC power, usb to pc and video/sound to TV. Menu very complete and easy to control the camera and quick to work with. Optical viewfinder saves battery power, i use it most of the time and have the "preview just taken picture" feature to determine keep/delete. Very accurate in low light. I use a 256Meg SanDisk Compact Flash Ultra 2 (very fast) yeilding 260 "best quality" capacity. Found a better case, using the Tamrac Digital model 5693, belt/shoulder and storage for batteries and an extra Compact flash + a bit of padding - just perfect after checking all the cases at B&H's NYC store.

Terrific small digital camera
The Minox DC3311 has performed very well for me. The pictures are of astonishing quality for the price. There are numerous options that allow a lot of flexibility, and I have found the camera easy and fun to use. It's small enough to fit in my coat pocket on vacation.

There are two problems I've had -- the Viking flash card I purchased from Amazon does not work very well in this camera! I'll be trying to get a replacement from Amazon. PQI, Sandisk, Leaxar or Kingston cards are apparently recommended by Minox.

Also, uploading 33 images to my computer completely exhausted the 4 AA batteries, and I didn't receive a plug-in-the-wall adapter from Amazon. After an e-mail to Leica in New Jersey (the USA rep) they sent one free.

Bottom line: the camera performs well; don't buy a Viking flash card. ... Read more

Features

• Film format -MINOX 8x11mm film format
• Lens -MINOCTAR lens 1 - 5,6/15mm (3 elements in 3 groups) with focusing range from 3.5 feet to infinity
• Exposure time -1/250 second
• Tripod thread -Standard thread (1/4 inch)
• Metal body

Amazon.com Product Description

According to Minox, concentrating on precision mechanics gives the photographer more freedom for individual creative composition. This is what you get with the Minox 35mm GT-E camera--simple elegance with restraint when it comes to technical gadgets. Selecting the aperture, for example, enables you to creatively control the depth of field and exposure of this lightweight and robust full-frame camera.The very fast 35mm (f/2.8), multicoated lens with integrated skylight filter and excellent imaging quality is not the only feature worth noting on the Minox GT-E. It also includes a manual focusing range of 70 centimeters to infinity, depth to field ring, illuminated frame viewfinder, overexposure warning and camera shake warning, a switch for doubling exposure time, and self-timer with 10-second countdown.All that in a glass-fiber-reinforced Makrolon soft-touch lacquer black casing. It weighs a mere 7 ounces and is famous as one of the world's smallest 35mm viewfinder cameras, making it simple to pack around on business or leisure activities. The Minox GT-E 35mm camera is a classic, with more than just excellent design. Minox stands for proven lens quality, robust mechanics, and easy operation. ... Read more

Features

• Supercompact design
• Very lightweight
• Superfast lens (f2.8)
• Precision mechanics
• Excellent imaging quality

Reviews (6)

great camera but needs internal flash
The lens and the resulting image quality is really, really good. The camera is easy to use. And the flash system is really good too. However, this flash is separate from the camera body and it's almost as big as the camera itself. It's difficult to carry both the camera and the flash in your pocket.

Finally, I found my dream camera...
Well, I was lucky enough to buy the last Minox GT-E in stock in Amazon about a month ago. It was a set with the flash and very, very good price.

Before Minox, I mainly used Lomo as my camera. I don't know much about camera as Lomo is a very simple and easy-to-shoot camera. I am still learning photography with Minox but I am sure I made an excellent choice.

If you are looking for a nice P&S camera that has everlasting value, Minox GT-E is it!

Indispensible travel camera
I've used variations of this camera for 20 years. If you are willing to make a few simple manual settings you will be rewarded with truly sensational photos. The 2.8 lens is far superior (and faster) than any of the pocket all-auto zoom cameras. Once or twice when my Nikon failed, I finished a professional shoot with the Minox. Nobody could tell the difference in the final prints.

If you really want to travel light, skip the flash and learn to use the backlight compensation. This will work for many underlit situations but not at night.

minox 35
I use a model GTX...almost the same as this one. This a great camera for the unexpected opportunity shot. From pants pocket to exposure takes about 3 seconds with the focus preset dots. It's a fast draw camera for sure. The lens quality is GREAT. I recently enlarged a color negative from this camera to 20 x 30 inches and it looked good. I'm in love.

minox gte for the creative photographer
The Minox GTE is a no nonsense high quality photographic machine.It has an excellant 2.8 high speed lens. The camera uses scale focus, this means you estimate the subject distance and set the lens to that distance. It has no range finder. You can set the F stop you desire and the camera will set the shutter speed. You can of course set the shutter speed indirectly buy ajusting the arpeture ring on the lens. The selected shutter speed can be read in the view finder. All curent versions of the camera feature a snap shot index on the lens. Simply line up the green marks on the lens (f8 and between 10-20ft) and almost everything records in pretty darn good focus. It has a 2x exposure switch and a self timer. This 35mm camera is so small theres no excuse for not always having it with you. The price is a little high, but it is a German camera with a German lens. On the GTE you set the film speed, this allows for extra exposure compensation control. The camera features a 1/500 sec. top shutter speed. The only thing I really wished it had was an exposure lock button. This is a great camera for the thinking photographer who can use his or her knowledge to creativly shape there images. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Minox CD 140 enhances the creativity of every photo amateur with brilliant photo quality. Maximum zoom range and minimal dimensions are characteristic for this new autofocus compact camera from the legendary German camera manufacturer Minox. Due to its generous focal distance of 38-140mm, the Minoctar lens with 4x zoom offers more freedom of creativity. The intricate lens system, with a total of 10 lenses arranged in 7 groups, guarantees excellent contrast and extremely high resolving power. The fully automatic CD 140 with its active infrared autofocus distinguishes itself through super-sharp photographs. A preflash combats the red-eye effect. The flash can be switched on and off manually and therefore offers more freedom for creative compositions. For photographing family, friends, or landscapes, it is the ideal camera for every occasion. ... Read more

Features

• Active infrared autofocus
• Maximum zoom range
• Automatic flash
• Preflash for red-eye reduction
• 10-element lens

Reviews (8)

This is the one!
I have owned this camera for over a year now and it has performed superbly. I bought it for it's "point and shoot" simplicity and I "got it all". The pictures are always in focus and exposure level never misses. This camera has to be one of the best engineered and executed products I have ever held in my hands. The pure quality built into this camera makes me wonder if Minox is making a profit. (I would have paid a lot more for it, knowing what I do now.) If I ever drop it in the ocean accidently and lose it, I will buy another without hesitation.

It is the quietest camera I have ever used. It is built like a brick and weighs like a feather. What can I say? The fit and finish are perfect. The optics are superb. I have used, abused, dropped, banged, and neglected this camera and have been rewarded with flawless operation through it all.

If you want a true "point and shoot" camera and still have crisp, razor sharp photos that rival any SLR's, then buy this one. I have NEVER regretted buying it and I have been through many other cameras.

BANG FOR THE BUCK
Originally, I wanted a Yashica T4 after reading stellar reviews on the Net. Unfortunately, they no longer make this camera. My search continued and I came across the Minox CD 140. Got my first roll of film back (Agfa Vista 200) and can only say that the pictures are breathtaking! Razor sharp, clear, vivid and brilliant. The camera is easy to operate and has great features without overkill. Fits nice in the hands and has a nice "solid feel" to it. Comes with strap and case in which the camera fits snug. As for the supposed "small viewfinder", I didn't think it any smaller than my other two cameras I own. Get this camera. Unbelievable pictures, easy to use, nice features, great value. A "Leica" at a fraction of the cost. I am totally satisfied.

Good Pictures but problem with white curved lines
I bought the Minox Cd 140 strictly on the reviews from this site which is usually a good predictor of the products quality and value. After I received the camera I was pleased with how it operated and looked except that it has a step zoom instead of continuous zoom like someone said in a previous review. I think there is about 5 steps. I took my first roll of pictures and was pleased with the quality except there was these curved white lines in the upper left corner of almost all of my pictures. I wasn't sure if it was the developer or the camera so I took another roll and the white lines were in that roll also (which was in the negatives also). I had to come to a conclusion that it was a mechanical problem so I had to send it back. I probably would of kept this camera if the lines weren't in the pictures. I guess I got the bad one in the batch. I have to give it a 3 based on my experience but otherwise it is a good camera. I don't think this is a prevalent problem or I would have heard about it somewhere.

Couldn't be happier
I have found the ideal point and shoot camera - the Minox CD 140. I read a review on this camera and did some research on it and decided that I would take a leap of faith and bought it. I was so pleased when I got my pictures back and saw how amazingly sharp, beautiful and precise they were. The coloring was excellent, the detail magnificent. For a point and shoot camera, my photos all look professional. I bought it through Amazon.com, after a lot of complications with smilephoto.com(I'll never attempt to do business with them again). This camera is marvelous. I highly recommend it to anyone. I only ranked it at a four, for one minor reason, the viewfinder is small and takes some adjusting to.Other than that it is perfect!

Excellent quality images, poor on ergodynamics
I own a Nikon N6006 SLR and set out to buy a point-and-shoot for convenience. I bought both a Minox CD 140 and an Olympus Stylus Zoom 140 QD. I shot a roll of film with all three at once, then blinded sorted the the match sets of three pictures of each image based on which were best. My findings:

1. The Nikon SLR was not consistently the best. In fact, the difference between the pictures from the SLR and the two point and shoots was remarkably smaller than I expected.

2. The Minox had somewhat better color, focusing, and contrast than did the Olympus. The difference, however, was slight.

3. The Olmpus was better designed than the Minox. The Olympus fit better in the hand, the clamshell cover gave more protection, it had a greater zoom range, the viewfinder was slightly larger and set back from the camera body (so your nose doesn't bump the camera as much), and the diopter adjustment was nice. On the plus side for the Minox, the placement of the Minox zoom buttons was more comfortable for me than than the Olympus ones, and the Minox turned on and off markedly faster than the Olympus. Also, the Minox case was more practical.

Both point and shoot cameras would be excellent options. Get the Minox if picture quality is paramount; get the Olympus if you want more features and better comfort in your hands. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great Product - Terrible e-Retailer
This is the best rangefinder for the money. I have tested them all and you can't find one better for the price anywhere else... ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Minox GT-S is everything you want and need in a 35mm camera--all wrapped up in one tiny, lightweight, go-anywhere package. It offers creative control for the professional-minded photographer mixed with point-and-shoot settings for convenience. And don't let its size fool you (3.9 by 2.4 by 1.4 inches)--the Minox GT-S gives you all of the creative freedom you want with high-performance, multicoated lenses, precision aperture priority exposure control--even a self-timer and automatic film speed setting (DX-coding). You also get a "green" setting for spontaneous candids and automatic setting of film speed.When you select any desired aperture, you can play with both the depth of field and the exposure to define the composition of your picture. The extremely quiet central diaphragm shutter permits discreet and unobtrusive photography that is not to be found in conventional compact cameras. You can achieve superb imaging performance with the exceptionally powerful multicoated Minoxar 35mm f/2.8 lens with integrated skylight filter. The focusing range of the lens is from 27 inches to infinity, which is ideal for near-focus range exposures.All that comes in a glass-fiber-reinforced Makrolon soft-touch lacquer silver casing. It weighs a mere 7 ounces, and is famous as one of the world's smallest 35mm viewfinder cameras, making it simple to pack around on business or leisure activities. The Minox GT-S 35mm camera is a classic, with more than just excellent design. Minox stands for proven lens quality, robust mechanics, and easy operation. ... Read more

Features

• "Green" setting for candids
• Lightweight and compact
• Very fast lens (f2.8)
• Precision mechanics
• Excellent imaging quality

Amazon.com Product Description

Small and handy in size, the Minox TLX is big in technology and imaging performance. The advantages of this 8 x 11 classic are not only appreciated by the professionals. You can rely on the Minox TLX to provide great family and holiday photos. It is light, robust, and can be used for all purposes. ... Read more

Features

• Subminiature camera with 8 x 11mm film format
• 4-element 15mm Minox lens f/3, 5/15mm
• CDS exposure meter
• Range setting from 7 inches to infinity
• Aluminum housing with titanium anodized finish

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether traveling, going to the theater, or practicing other hobbies,the extremely lightweight, ultracompact Minox BR 8x32 roof prism binoculars makesure you can keep a close watch on your subject. They feature reflectionreduction, a brilliant high-resolution lens system, and excellent detail evenunder unfavorable light conditions. ... Read more

Features

• Full antireflection coating
• 8x magnification
• Large field of view of up to 430 feet (at 1,000 meters)
• Roof prisms of high-quality BK-7 glass
• Suitable for eyeglass wearers

Reviews (3)

Great Bargain, Great Binoculars
I purchased these binoculars not quite two years ago, and I think this was one of my best purchases ever as a paddler/birder. I wear eye glasses and getting a quality pair of waterproof, fogproof roof prism binoculars at a price that I could afford was a daunting task. Everytime I thought I had found the right optics, they didn't fit my unusual eyesight spacing. Finally, my local WildBirds Unlimited Store expert suggested these binoculars, and I have been happy ever since.

The great thing about these binoculars is that I can wear them around my neck while paddling with minimal fatigue. The optics are phase coated and are wonderful in the late afternoon when lighting can become an issue for spotting birds and seeing their details clearly.

I will always dream of owning a pair of Swarovskis. But believe me,these Minox 8x32's are a wonderful pair of binoculars. I highly recommend them to anyone on a budget who still wants quality optics.

Minox BR 8 X 32 Roof Binoculars
These are excellent binoculars. They are very bright and offer good (about 3.5 ft) close focus. They are waterproof and highly durable. I have used them for bird, butterfly and dragonfly watching. They are bright enough for dusk and dawn viewing, but are exceeded (only slightly) by my Celestron Regal 10 X 50s. For this price ... I would consider them a fine purchase for anyone buying a pair of binoculars. I liked them so much; my father bought the 10 X 42 version. If you prefer more magnification, they are great too, although they only close focus at 6 ft.

A great Product at a Great price
I own these binoculars since 1999 and are perfect for hunting or outdoor activities. They withstand elements (Rain, Extreme heat, Winds) they dont blur (Even at fog you can see very well because of the high contrast) And Can be used very well by people who use eyeglasses. Great Product i give it 5 stars because it well worth it. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Warranty problems
I want to tell you about my experience with Leica Binoculars. I purchased the Trinovid 10 X 42s back in the mid 90s for about $1,000.00. I thought they were the best binoculars I had ever owned. Last year, in November of 2003 the binoculars broke. I did not drop them or handle them any differently than I had the last 8 years of owning them. I always carried them in a specially padded backpack that I modified specifically for optics like my binoculars and cameras and such. I thought, no problem, they have a lifetime guarantee... So I thought.

I went to the store where I had purchased them. They gave me the phone number to Leica-Camera Co. I called and got a recording telling me to write down the problem and where to send them, I did. A couple of weeks later I received a repair estimate in the mail for a bit over $400.00.

I called them up and talked to a service rep. She told me that because I did not send in my warranty card when I purchased the binoculars they were not covered under the warranty. I told her I never send those things in because I understand they are a source for mailing lists which are sold and I get too much junk mail and spam as it is. Of course this did not sway her in the least. So I asked if I paid for the repair would I then be in their data base and therefore the binoculars would be covered should they break again. She told me, No; they would still not be covered. The repair would be warranted for 90 days and after that I would again be on my own.

I declined their estimate and was told they would send them back the following week. After that I wrote a letter to Leica GM telling of the situation and asking that they step up to the plate and do the right thing... repair my expensive binoculars that I got based on a lifetime guarantee. This is the first time I have ever written a letter to a company official and not got a response. I heard nothing and 3 months went by. I thought, maybe they are not good communicators and maybe they have had them this long because they decided to fix them after all. I called them. I got a voicemail and asked about them. They never returned my call but about a week later they showed up in the mail. Still broken and useless.

I will not buy any more Leica products and I thought I would pass on my experience for anyone thinking of buying their products to consider.

The Best of The Best
As a neophyte to the world of safari and in preparation for what will be my first adventure on the so-called dark continent, I thoroughly evaluated all of the top-end (mostly european) brands before selecting Leica's 10x42 bn-series binoculars.

The Leica bn-series binoculars are without doubt one of the - if not 'the' - finest binoculars you can purchase at the given price point (in terms of clarity, resolution, focusing precision, brightness/light-gathering ability, portability, build-quality, etc.), and, apparently, are amongst the favorite of many of the leading professionals, sportsmen and naturalists.

Superb
Superior optics, design, waterproofing (which makes them easy to keep clean), and durability. A bit heavy, no objective covers (except the case), and no fancy high-tech gadgetry. What these binoculars were designed to do, they do incomparably well. We have owned ours for five years and have taken them all over the US and the Arctic. You may check with some optics shops to see if you can order several binoculars at once and then test them out to see which ones you like the best -- we did this and found the Leica's were our preference.

Worth every penny
These binoculars were a revelation to me. I was surprised that this level of quality was still available at any price in today's world of plastic disposable low quality consumer merchandise. These Leica binoculars feel like a heavy glass and metal brick in comparison to other cheaper binoculars. The image is bright and contrasty. The image snaps decisively into focus. You'll want to smash your cheap binoculars against the nearest wall after you've tried these.

A couple of minor quibbles: the thin leather case that comes with it is very flimsy, you may want to buy a more sturdy aftermarket case. No front lens covers were provided. There is a sturdy one piece rubber eyepiece cover and a very nice neoprene neckstrap.

These binoculars were a revelation
Although I have owned several pairs of binoculars, I have never come across a better pair than the Leica. The first time I used them the image was so bright and clear it was a real revelation. I have tried comparable Swarovsky and Zeiss binoculars, and not only was the Leica brighter, but it was much more comfortable to hold. I have not tried the Nikon Venturers, which I have heard are wonderful, but you absolutely cannot go wrong with the Leica. They are expensive, but will last a lifetime. For those who wear glasses, the eye cup system is really quite comfortable, and the cups themselves are quite sturdy. The Leica is also waterproof and built like a tank. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Consider this
I want to tell you about my experience with Leica Binoculars. I purchased the Trinovid 10 X 42s back in the mid 90s for about $1,000.00. I thought they were the best binoculars I had ever owned. Last year, in November of 2003 the binoculars broke. I did not drop them or handle them any differently than I had the last 8 years of owning them. I always carried them in a specially padded backpack that I modified specifically for optics like my binoculars and cameras and such. I thought, no problem, they have a lifetime guarantee... So I thought.

I went to the store where I had purchased them. They gave me the phone number to Leica-Camera Co. I called and got a recording telling me to write down the problem and where to send them, I did. A couple of weeks later I received a repair estimate in the mail for a bit over $400.00.

I called them up and talked to a service rep. She told me that because I did not send in my warranty card when I purchased the binoculars they were not covered under the warranty. I told her I never send those things in because I understand they are a source for mailing lists which are sold and I get too much junk mail and spam as it is. Of course this did not sway her in the least. So I asked if I paid for the repair would I then be in their data base and therefore the binoculars would be covered should they break again. She told me, No; they would still not be covered. The repair would be warranted for 90 days and after that I would again be on my own.

I declined their estimate and was told they would send them back the following week. After that I wrote a letter to Leica GM telling of the situation and asking that they step up to the plate and do the right thing... repair my expensive binoculars that I got based on a lifetime guarantee. This is the first time I have ever written a letter to a company official and not got a response. I heard nothing and 3 months went by. I thought, maybe they are not good communicators and maybe they have had them this long because they decided to fix them after all. I called them. I got a voicemail and asked about them. They never returned my call but about a week later they showed up in the mail. Still broken and useless.

I will not buy any more Leica products and I thought I would pass on my experience for anyone thinking of buying their products to consider.

Warranty not good
I want to tell you about my experience with Leica Binoculars. I purchased the Trinovid 10 X 42s back in the mid 90s for about $1,000.00. I thought they were the best binoculars I had ever owned. Last year, in November of 2003 the binoculars broke. I did not drop them or handle them any differently than I had the last 8 years of owning them. I always carried them in a specially padded backpack that I modified specifically for optics like my binoculars and cameras and such. I thought, no problem, they have a lifetime guarantee... So I thought.

I went to the store where I had purchased them. They gave me the phone number to Leica-Camera Co. I called and got a recording telling me to write down the problem and where to send them, I did. A couple of weeks later I received a repair estimate in the mail for a bit over $400.00.

I called them up and talked to a service rep. She told me that because I did not send in my warranty card when I purchased the binoculars they were not covered under the warranty. I told her I never send those things in because I understand they are a source for mailing lists which are sold and I get too much junk mail and spam as it is. Of course this did not sway her in the least. So I asked if I paid for the repair would I then be in their data base and therefore the binoculars would be covered should they break again. She told me, No; they would still not be covered. The repair would be warranted for 90 days and after that I would again be on my own.

I declined their estimate and was told they would send them back the following week. After that I wrote a letter to Leica GM telling of the situation and asking that they step up to the plate and do the right thing... repair my expensive binoculars that I got based on a lifetime guarantee. This is the first time I have ever written a letter to a company official and not got a response. I heard nothing and 3 months went by. I thought, maybe they are not good communicators and maybe they have had them this long because they decided to fix them after all. I called them. I got a voicemail and asked about them. They never returned my call but about a week later they showed up in the mail. Still broken and useless.

I will not buy any more Leica products and I thought I would pass on my experience for anyone thinking of buying their products to consider.

Superb balance of weight and brightness
These are wonderful binoculars! They are light enough to slip into a pack without thinking about the weight, yet their superb quality makes them a favorite at home where weight is not an issue. Great edge-to-edge sharpness and brightness. Easy focus.

I use mine nearly every day. ... Read more