Hello and welcome to another Optics Trade Debates video. We continue on our way through the Leica sales catalog, with a current focus on classic binoculars. The series that we will discuss in detail today is Noctivid.
Let’s start with some general information. Noctivid is the latest series in Leica’s range of classic binoculars. It was launched in 2016.
With this series, Leica used all their technological prowess and years of experience with the singular goal of making the best binoculars in the world. Leica, Swarovski, and Zeiss are the top 3 companies that manufacture binoculars and the competition is intense.
The battle began in when 2007 when Swarovski came out with the first generation of its EL model. Zeiss followed the example by releasing Victory SF models and Leica did the same with Noctivid in 2016. These 3 binoculars are paragons of what the world of optics has to offer.
Only two models exist in the Noctivid series: Leica Noctivid 8×42 (black / olive green) and 10×42 (black / olive green). The price of them is about 2,600 euros.
Leica tried to incorporate all the technologies in their arsenal to create the best possible model, a culmination of their technological accomplishments. Design-wise, Noctivid models have an open bridge design for easier handling and an incredibly light magnesium chassis. The weight distribution is perfect and prevents any fatigue that could result from lengthier periods of use.
The German company used the best SCHOTT HD glass in the industry of optics. The glass contains fluoride and the lenses achieve 92% of light transmission rate, the best percentage in the world even though they have Schmidt/Pechan (Roof) prisms.
Now, let’s talk lens coatings. Again, Leica included only the very best. On the outside lens, there is AquaDura® coating that repels water and dirt from the surface, prevents external fogging and even protects the lenses from mild abrasions. What is more, Leica also uses High Durable Coating (HDC® Plus) for an additional shield against scratches and marks.
Noctivid offers superb optical performance, including a wide (135 m/1000 m) field of view, great central and edge sharpness, extreme colour fidelity and really good contrast.
There is also the lubrication-free focusing mechanism that ensures that the adjustment is smooth, no matter the weather condition. This top-notch focusing system will work just as smoothly at -20 or -30⁰C as it does at room temperatures.
Noctivid models feature twist-up eyecups with 4 different positions, one of the best currently available. Because the eyepieces are so big, the user always gets the full field of view no matter if the user is wearing glasses or not. They can also withstand pressure.
There are certain accessories included in the package like the neoprene carrying strap, rain covers, and a really nice bag. Many additional ones can be bought.
Leica Noctivid series is made in Germany. They come with a warranty of 10 years. Thanks to the company’s dependable policies, the customers can continue to send their products back for repairs even after the time period stated in the warranty has long run out.
As we already established, Leica Noctivid models are strong contenders for the best binoculars in the entire world. The decision between the top 3 models often comes down to customers’ personal taste since the optical capabilities of Leica Noctivid, Swarovski EL Range and Zeiss Victory SF are neck-to-neck.
This should cover it. We would like to thank you for your time. Please like and share this video if you found it useful. If you have any questions left, contact us via email or leave a comment down below. For more Optics Trade content subscribe to our YouTube channel and we’ll see you next time!
Products mentioned:
Leica binoculars
Leica Noctivid
