While, as the above comments say, high tech optical improvements have moved forward since the time of that Leitz, the design is often hailed as the most elegant in the history of binoculardom. The unique prism design is impressively compact, and although lacking modern coatings, transmission is very good because there is so little glass, and so few surfaces to scatter light. And although extremely lightweight and making no claim to waterproofness, it ruggedness is legendary. The typical beginner would have spent his $275 on a currently made Chinese binocular with modern technology but mediocre construction and no distinction. You have run into an odd piece of luck. Hang on to the Leitz. As you grow in your appreciation of optics, you will come to recognize its weaknesses, but more, to admire its elegance. It has shown close up views of many a bird, many a lion, and many an elephant.
Ron
