Comparison of Zeiss 7x42 Classic and Nikon 8x32 SE

[jaymoynihan]

Got around this morning to directly comparing my trusty Zeiss 7x42 Classics (BGAT*P*)and my recently acquired Nikon 8x32 SE.
Subjective impressions, my eyes etc. Done outside (tree bark, a few birds, brick walls, numbers on signs) and inside (braided grass decoration on a gourd-bowl).

I should add, i am one of the fortunate eyeglass wearers that do not experience any "black-out" with the SE's.

Sharpness, detail, etc.:
Really too close to call. Mayyyybe a nod to the SE, but darn close, indoors and out.

Brightness:
Indoors, the SE, clearly. Assuming the laws of physics have not been repealed, must be something with the coatings?

Apparent abberation free field:
SE wins again, (on how much of each model's FOV appears abberation free, in use. did not measure then see which is bigger).

Hand balance/ergonomics:
Tie. I find both to have excellent hand balance. I find the Classic to be better for fast moving targets, swallow on the wing, etc.

Eye Relief/eye feel:
The SE wins on eye relief for me. But on the sheer gestalt of eye "feel" the Classic still wins.

So, which do i think is better
Do not know, but feel very lucky to have both.

jay

[Blincodave]

Jay,

I have also the proud owner of both these binoculars. Your comparative review is very interesting. If Amazon USA is still knocking the SEs out at around $450, they must the outstanding binocular bargain of the year. Presumably Nikon USA is keen to move them on in bulk. I wonder if they are still in production? I'll try and post a comparison myself in a couple of weeks on returning from a holiday.

Dave

[jaymoynihan]

Just checked Amazon.com (USA), and they are now $599.95.

[Blincodave]

Just back from a birding trip to Spain where I used my Nikon 8x32 SEs exclusively. I should say that I wear specs and do not suffer from the 'blackout problem' some find with the Nikons. (If you do, just try rolling back the eye-cup from its flattest position so there is the slightest projection from the eyepiece).

Prior to that trip, I grabbed my Zeiss 7x42 Classics more often than not. If you are in a low light context, the Classics have the upper hand (not suprisingly). I agree with Jay, the Classics are easier to get onto a bird and track it. The Nikon's are much lighter, easier on the neck (especially with an Optech strap) and ideal in a very hot climate such as Andalucia. But I agree with Jay's assertion that: 'on the sheer gestalt of eye "feel" the Classic still wins.' and ultimately that is why I prefer the Classics - but it is a very close call. The Nikon SEs are a remakable glass and worthy of serious comparison with any top flight roof prism bino.

Dave