I think Zeiss have a great product line and I have experienced nothing but top-notch quality with the 10 units I own. That said, although the poster is over-the-top, the actual sentiment is valid - there are clear QA / design issues with the 54 mm HT's, as seen from the OP as well as respected testers.
So far, Zeiss have said they see nothing wrong and will do nothing. Maybe, if nothing more, a thread like this will have them think [and look] again. It is clear the 54 mm HT's are not worthy of the Zeiss badge in their current state and Zeiss needs to remedy this to keep their reputation intact. Saying a binocular that isn't sharp in the centre-field is fine [at nearly $3000.00] is completely unacceptable. When was the last time an alpha maker came out with a clearly defective optical design? This wouldn't be acceptable for Zen-Ray, inexcusable for Zeiss.
So, maybe in this case, shouting from the roof-tops is what is needed. Over 4000 views of this thread can't be helping sales, that's for sure.
Look at a company like Porsche, a company clearly concerned with their image of quality. 2 911 GT-3's suffer engine fires and the entire production line is recalled and EVERY SINGLE engine replaced - ensuring that the problem is completely put to bed. I realize the comparison is a bit specious but it does show how far they thought they needed to go the maintain their brand status. Zeiss should be thinking the same.
) and isn't that a Swarovski jacket? Why would I attach any significance to what he chooses for a particular photo or official occasion?
