SWAROVSKI D173680 Habicht Binoculars High Magnification 10X Optics

( Brand: Swarovski ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: D173680 ), ( Model: HABICHT ), ( Type: Binoculars ), ( Color: Green, Black ), ( Maximum Magnification: 10x )

Review SWAROVSKI Habicht 10x Binoculars Green Black High Magnification Optics

The **Swarovski D173680 Habicht 10x42 Binoculars** represent the pinnacle of optical engineering, meticulously crafted for enthusiasts and professionals who demand uncompromising clarity, precision, and durability in their viewing experience. Engineered with Swarovski s legendary **Dry-View** optics, these binoculars feature a **10x magnification** paired with a **42mm objective lens**, delivering an exceptional 420mm equivalent focal length that transforms distant subjects into crisp, vibrant details. The **Schott glass** used in the multi-coated, phase-corrected lenses ensures superior light transmission, minimizing reflections and maximizing contrast, even in low-light conditions or at high altitudes. This optical system produces an impressively wide field of view **114 meters at 1,000 meters** allowing for effortless tracking of fast-moving subjects like birds in flight or wildlife in motion, a hallmark of the Habicht series reputation among birdwatchers and hunters.

Beyond their optical brilliance, the **D173680 Habicht** binoculars are built to endure the most demanding environments. The **armored magnesium alloy body** is both lightweight and robust, designed to resist impacts, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, making them ideal for outdoor adventures in rugged terrains or extreme climates. The **waterproof and fog-proof** construction, achieved through a sealed, nitrogen-purged housing, ensures reliability whether you re scanning coastal landscapes, navigating alpine trails, or observing wildlife in humid forests. Ergonomically, the binoculars feature a **non-slip rubberized grip** and a **twist-up eyecup** that accommodates eyeglass wearers, while the **swiveling diopter adjustment** on the right eyepiece allows for precise focus without compromising stability.

For those who prioritize comfort during extended use, the Habicht s **fully multi-coated, high-refraction glass** and **wide eye relief (18.5mm)** reduce eye strain and fatigue, enabling prolonged sessions without discomfort. The **porro prism design** not only enhances depth perception but also contributes to a more compact and balanced form factor compared to roof-prism binoculars, offering a classic, intuitive viewing experience. Whether you re a seasoned ornithologist, a hunter tracking game, or a nature photographer capturing fleeting moments, the **D173680 Habicht 10x42** delivers a harmonious blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless craftsmanship, setting a new standard for optical performance in the field. With Swarovski s commitment to precision and innovation, these binoculars are not just tools they are gateways to a world seen with extraordinary clarity and detail.

The Swarovski EL 10x52 (model D173680, also known as the Habicht) is a high-end optical instrument designed for serious birdwatchers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand exceptional clarity, durability, and performance. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the Swarovski EL 10x52 (D173680)**

1. **Superior Optical Quality**

The EL series is renowned for its outstanding image clarity, sharpness, and color fidelity. Swarovski uses high-quality glass and advanced multi-coating technology to minimize reflections and maximize light transmission, resulting in bright, detailed, and distortion-free views even in low-light conditions. The 10x magnification provides a wide field of view (FOV) of approximately 320 meters at 1,000 meters, making it ideal for scanning large areas quickly.

2. **Wide Objective Lenses (52mm)**

The 52mm objectives gather significantly more light than smaller binoculars (e.g., 8x42 or 10x42), which enhances performance in low-light situations such as dawn, dusk, or overcast days. This makes the EL 10x52 particularly well-suited for birdwatching in dense forests or at long distances.

3. **Durability and Weather Resistance**

Swarovski binoculars are built to withstand harsh conditions. The EL 10x52 features a robust magnesium alloy body, nitrogen-purged and O-ring-sealed optics to prevent fogging, and a waterproof design that can handle rain, snow, and humidity. The rubber armor provides a secure grip and protection against impacts.

4. **Ergonomic and Comfortable Design**

The binoculars are well-balanced and ergonomically designed, with a comfortable eye relief (approximately 18mm) that accommodates users wearing glasses. The twist-up eyecups allow for customization to fit individual preferences. The overall weight (approximately 1.6 kg or 3.5 lbs) is manageable for most users, though it is heavier than compact models.

5. **Long-Term Value and Resale Potential**

Swarovski binoculars retain their value exceptionally well due to their reputation for quality and durability. The EL 10x52 is a flagship model, and while it may not be the latest iteration, it remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. This makes it a sound investment for those who plan to use the binoculars for years.

6. **Swarovski s Reputation for Reliability**

Swarovski is a brand synonymous with precision engineering and craftsmanship. The EL series is known for its reliability, with minimal issues reported over time. The company also offers excellent customer service and warranties, which adds to the peace of mind for buyers.

7. **Versatility for Multiple Uses**

While primarily marketed for birdwatching, the EL 10x52 is versatile enough for other outdoor activities such as hunting, wildlife observation, stargazing (with appropriate filters), and even casual sightseeing. Its high magnification and brightness make it suitable for a wide range of applications.

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### **Cons of the Swarovski EL 10x52 (D173680)**

1. **High Cost**

The Swarovski EL 10x52 is one of the most expensive binoculars on the market, with prices often ranging between $2,500 and $3,500 or more, depending on the retailer and any additional accessories. This makes it a significant investment, especially for hobbyists or casual users who may not need such high-end optics.

2. **Weight and Bulk**

At around 1.6 kg, the EL 10x52 is heavier than many other 10x binoculars, such as the Zeiss Conquest HD or Nikon Monarch 5. While not excessively heavy, the added weight can become tiring during prolonged use, particularly for activities like hiking or backpacking where portability is a priority.

3. **Field of View (FOV) Trade-off**

While the 10x magnification provides a wide FOV for its class, it is narrower than that of lower magnification binoculars (e.g., 8x or 6x). This means that the EL 10x52 may require more scanning effort to cover a large area compared to binoculars with a wider FOV, such as 8x42 models.

4. **Limited Low-Light Performance Compared to Some Alternatives**

While the 52mm objectives are excellent for gathering light, some high-end binoculars with larger objectives (e.g., 56mm or 60mm) or advanced coatings (such as Zeiss s T* or Nikon s Super ED glass) may offer slightly better performance in extreme low-light conditions. However, the difference is often marginal for most users.

5. **Maintenance Requirements**

High-end binoculars like the EL 10x52 require careful cleaning and maintenance to preserve their optical quality. The multi-coatings and internal mechanisms are delicate, and improper handling (e.g., exposing them to dust, moisture, or scratching the lenses) can degrade performance over time.

6. **Not Ideal for Close-Up Observations**

The 10x magnification is excellent for distant subjects but can make close-up observations (e.g., detailed inspection of flowers or insects) more challenging due to the limited eye relief and potential eye strain.

7. **Resale Value Depreciation Over Time**

While Swarovski binoculars hold their value well, they do depreciate over time. If you plan to upgrade to a newer model or sell the binoculars in the future, the resale value may not fully recoup the initial purchase price, especially if the market shifts or newer technologies emerge.

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### **Conclusion**

The Swarovski EL 10x52 (D173680) is a premium optical instrument that excels in clarity, durability, and performance. It is an ideal choice for serious birdwatchers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and reliability above all else. The binoculars superior optics, weather resistance, and long-term value make them a worthwhile investment for those who can afford the high cost and are willing to carry a slightly heavier instrument.

However, the EL 10x52 may not be the best fit for casual users, budget-conscious buyers, or those who require maximum portability. If you are looking for a more affordable alternative with slightly lower performance, brands like Zeiss (Conquest HD), Nikon (Monarch 5), or Leica (Ultravid) offer compelling options. Alternatively, if you need a wider FOV or lighter weight, lower magnification binoculars (e.g., 8x42) might be more suitable.

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### **Recommendation**

- You are a dedicated birdwatcher, hunter, or outdoor enthusiast who demands the best optical performance and durability.

- You prioritize image clarity, color fidelity, and low-light performance above all else.

- You are willing to invest in a high-quality instrument that will serve you for many years.

- You do not mind the added weight and bulk, as the benefits outweigh these drawbacks for your specific needs.

- You are on a tighter budget and can find equally good performance from mid-range brands like Zeiss or Nikon.

- You require a lighter or more portable binocular for activities like hiking or travel.

- You are primarily interested in close-up observations or casual use where high magnification is not essential.

Ultimately, the Swarovski EL 10x52 is a top-tier choice for those who want the best without compromise. If you can justify the cost based on your needs and budget, it is an outstanding investment in optical excellence.

Details:

With a maximum magnification of 10x, these binoculars are perfect for bird watching, hunting, or any outdoor activity where precision and clarity important. The renowned Swarovski brand ensures exceptional quality and durability, making these binoculars a reliable choice for any nature enthusiast or sportsman. The Swarovski Habicht 10x Binoculars in green and black offer high magnification optics for a clear detailed viewing experience.

part #: d173680 prices

• $420.00-$3349.00

specifications binoculamonocul:

• brand: Swarovski
• mpn: D173680
• model: Habicht
• type: Binoculars
• color: Green, Black
• maximum magnification: 10x

general binoculamonocul:

• condition: Used
• Cameras Photo > Binoculars Telescopes > Binoculars Monoculars

shipping binoculamonocul:

• cost: $8.65
• carrier: USPS
• class: Standard
• type: Calculated
• transit: 4-10 Days
• service: USPS Ground Advantage

offer binoculamonocul:

• sold: 0
• quantity: 1
• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• started: February 23, 2026
• best offers: True

seller binoculamonocul:

• city: Bald Knob, Arkansas
• rating: 0.0%
• # reviews: 0

returns binoculamonocul:

• policy: No Returns

payments binoculamonocul:

• wallet: Apple-pay
• other
• credit card: Discover

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