Thanks to PlanetMaker, I revisited my interest in Swarovski's 7X42 SLC. Last week I purchased a used model that was refurbished by Swarovski.
I received the bin yesterday only to find it was better than I remembered. On the Swarovski box I noticed a number written in pencil. When I searched this is what I found.
https://www.gunsamerica.com/977926848/Swarovski-Binoculars-On-Sale-SLC-7x42-B-HABICHT.htm
a rather well-used bin, IMHO.
I paid the seller $999.99 and here's the listing.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Swarovski-...e=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2648
Notice the improvements!!
Once again, Swarovski demonstrates why they are, without a doubt, the premier optics company of our time. The bin I've used for several hours is not only as good as new, it's better. Every lens looks perfect and the prism was upgraded to the Swarobright version employed after this bin was manufactured. New armor, focus wheel, strap connectors, eyecups, etc. are all new in perfect working order. Swarovski assigned a new serial number.
The view is amazing. I spent a few hours going back and forth with my Ultravid only to confirm what I've always known. The SLC has a killer sweet spot; the Ultravid not so much and I prefer the former. My SV's beat them all for edge sharpness but the bottom line with the 7X42 SLC is that its sweet spot, for my eyes, completely eliminates the distractions I've ALWAYS seen in the Ultravid. With the 7X42 SLC I relax more, focus a lot less, enjoy greater DOF and have a far more enjoyable experience. It also exhibits less CA than the Ultravid BR. Again, these observations are unscientific and personal but, as always, my opinions are all that matters when it comes to my viewing pleasure. The Ultravid is about to become the best loaner bin my non-birding friends will ever enjoy.
I'm hoping for clear skies so I can stare at the stars...Jupiter looked pretty good last night!
PS
I forgot to mention the generous eye relief. There's so much I need the eyecups extended and, when mounted, I can sit back and enjoy a wide, stable, carefree view with total ease!