Confused with Nikon prices, help (1 Viewer)

[Aracari]

I'm shopping for a Nikon bino, a 10x that is not very heavy. I was set on the 10x36 Monarch ATB but they are out of stock at B&H (where they cost $237).

So I checked at Adorama and saw that the same bino there costs $279 http://www.adorama.com/NK1036M.html

BUT there's also a 10x42 Monarch ATB costing $249! I could buy that, but what's the catch here? Why is a 10x42 bino cheaper than a 10x36? Is it an older model? http://www.adorama.com/NK1042RP.html

 

[willito]

Hello, I've seen this kind of "oddities" more than once on internet stores, especially when comparing the best sellers, among which the Monarch 10x42 is always included, with other less renowned types/sizes, so it's not surprising to see that price difference. On the other hand, I've never bought from Adorama, so I don't have particular experience with them.
One possible explanation could be that it's one of those 10x42 not featuring the so-called "high reflective prism", a feature that was introduced beginning of the year*, but I'm just guessing there. The price is only slightly lower than the usual, so it could also well be that they're just promoting that very model for the season.

* Just one side hint: I bought my first Monarch 10x42 in 2008, i.e. not having the Hi Ref filter. A couple of months ago I bought a second pair, this time having it, since it was only $ 15,- more expensive. The difference is only noticeable on reflective surfaces, like water, where things look less dazzling, so if it were more than those $ 15,- I certainly wouldn't recommend to pay more for that.

 

[mikefreiberg]

The older style binoculars lose their MAP (minimum advertised pricing) once a new product comes out to compete in that line of optics. The result is dealers selling these optics for any price they would like. That is why you are seeing the variable pricing.

The Monarch III with the dielectric coatings are priced the same as the older Monarchs, so if there is an internet dealer selling below that price they may be breaking the policy!

Best,
Mike Freiberg
Nikon Birding Market Specialist