Hi Alexis, Ken Rockwell does provide a reasonable guide to nikon photography products, however, his appraisal of the 10x40, non B type trinovids is off, particularly in the comparisons to todays offerings.
My first alpha bins were the described model, the weight, size, fov and ergonomics are a good memory. However, the ER, minimum focus, brightness and contrast, (also being non WP) are best forgotten.
Interesting write-up, but I, for one, would not remotely consider giving up one of my alpha bins to go back to them.
Regards, John