SLC WB HD vs. WB (1 Viewer)

[handwerk]

I have read contradicting info on these two models.
I have the 10x42 (2011) HD's with more EL like outside covering, black hinges and the closer focus.
Some places say that other than the close focus the optics between the two are the same, other sources mention improvements in the optics of the latest version over the older HD model.
What say you?

 

[chill6x6]

I have both models in 8X42. For the most part the difference is inconsequential. HD has closer focus and is heavier. The HD comes across as if it is a little better made maybe? In actual use I've never been able to tell much of a difference. I think the HD is at LEAST every bit as good as the later SLC W B.

 

[bkdc]

The optical difference will be minimal. They are the same binocular (possibly with changes in coatings on later versions) except for the close focus element. Chill6x6, I’ll happily buy your 8x42 SLC-HD to save you from redundancy if you have a mind to sell.

 

[John A Roberts]

The all new x42 SLC was introduced in 2010, and then revised in 2013
(the original x42 SLC model was in production from 1992 to 2010)

The 2010 version is identifiable by the blackened exposed metal in the bridge area (similar to that on the EL line),
and in contrast the 2013 version has an all over two texture RA covering
See an image of both from Chuck in post #4 at:
https://www.birdforum.net/threads/s...inued-by-swarovski.392911/page-5#post-4049754

The 2013 version also has a simplified focuser mechanism, with a greater minimum focusing distance: 3.2 m/ 10.5 ft verses 1.9 m/ 6.2 ft
However, there is no indication that the optical construction was modified

Both the 2010 and 2013 versions have 9 lenses per side, along with 2 prisms. See a cutaway view of the 2010 version,
along with a current specification sheet for the 2013 version
And although the 2013 version is no longer marked HD, it still has one HD lens in each objective

The 2013 modifications seem to have been to provide greater differentiation between the SLC and EL SV lines (both in performance and price)
And a similar change has again occurred with the introduction of NL x42:
the EL x42's focus mechanism has been simplified, with a greater minimum focus distance of 3.3 m verses 1.5 m,
and it's now identified as the Legend version

- - - -

And for comparison, the optical construction of the original pre-2010 x42 SLC can be seen at:
https://www.birdforum.net/threads/s...inued-by-swarovski.392911/page-5#post-4049754


John

 

[elkcub]

The 2013 version also has a simplified focuser mechanism, with a greater minimum focusing distance: 3.2 m/ 10.5 ft verses 1.9 m/ 6.2 ft
However, there is no indication that the optical construction was modified

Hi John,

Not to be overlooked is the fact that the original focusing speed was also about twice as fast as the 2013 version within their common working range.

Ed

 

[John A Roberts]

Confirmation of Discontinuation of x42 SLC Production

As previously noted:
• Swarovski had indicated the intending discontinuation of the x42 SLC models back in July 2020, and
• Jan confirmed that the last x42 production was dispatched in December 2020
See posts #6 and #8 at: https://www.birdforum.net/threads/gpo-passion-10x56.402828/#post-4127478

And following on from that, as of today the Swarovski website only lists the x56 SLC models
See at: https://www.swarovskioptik.com/int/en/birding/products/binoculars/slc


John

 

[handwerk]

Thanks for the great info gents.

 

[Ontario]

Confirmation of Discontinuation of x42 SLC Production

As previously noted:
• Swarovski had indicated the intending discontinuation of the x42 SLC models back in July 2020, and
• Jan confirmed that the last x42 production was dispatched in December 2020
See posts #6 and #8 at: https://www.birdforum.net/threads/gpo-passion-10x56.402828/#post-4127478

And following on from that, as of today the Swarovski website only lists the x56 SLC models
See at: https://www.swarovskioptik.com/int/en/birding/products/binoculars/slc


John

Resurrected https://www.kahles.at/en/news/details/helia-s42-binoculars

 

[John A Roberts]

Nicely Spotted!

The the two x42 models are going to be known as the Helia S line
I've attached the specifications from the press release
- they're identical to those of the Swarovski production excepting a slight increase in the listed weight
I've also attached copies of the three available images which I've lightened to better show the detail

Projected availability is from April, at a price of €1,500 (around US $1,800)


John

 

[tenex]

The evil nature of the SLC is revealed at last... is Swaro still actually making them? Does the same brown fate await the SLC 56?