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Message: <blockquote data-quote="BruceH" data-source="post: 3507534" data-attributes="member: 106398">Rev44 ..... Good to see you are still hanging in there with us.  My choice of the two SLC models is the prior version with the closer focus.  I also like the armoring and styling better on the prior model (personal preferences only).  One downside side is many have some sticking in the focus.  That can be improved by sending them off to Swaro of N. America for free warranty service.  It is a potential small hassle but worth the effort considering all of the other quality attributes of the SLC.  Here is a prior SLC 8X42 that was listed in the Bargains thread a while back.  There are still a couple left and it looks like a very good price to me, especially for a new model.  These originally sold for around $2,150.  I would just confirm these folks are an authorized dealer to make sure it was imported by Swaro of NA.  That way the warranty is valid.  They are in Canada so the US price shipped should be about $1,394.  <a href="http://www.ebay.com/itm/Swarovski-Optik-SLC-HD-8x42-Binocular-Brand-new-/152375737016?hash=item237a4d3ab8:g:BHEAAOSwOyJX4ZWB#shpCntId" target="_blank">http://www.ebay.com/itm/Swarovski-Optik-SLC-HD-8x42-Binocular-Brand-new-/152375737016?hash=item237a4d3ab8:g:BHEAAOSwOyJX4ZWB#shpCntId</a>The newest version was discounted under an authorized Swaro sale during the holidays but that has now ended.  The price of the 8X42 new version has gone back up to $1,749.  I have both the prior version SLC 8X42 and the Zeiss SF 8X42.  If I had to choose one, I would stay with the SF since it has some qualities high on my personal priority list.  The primary item is the wide FOV.  They are both excellent and in in some ways, it comes down to personal preferences.  If you were to do a side by side comparison of the two, I think the things you would notice immediately are:- A small difference in color balance, but both are close to neutral.  - The wider FOV of the SF.- A more rearward balance in handling of the SF- A smoother focus mechanism of the SF with easier access.  - The sharper edges of the SF,  but the SLC has one of the larger center views out there for a classic design.- A difference in size with the SLC seeming nice and compact for a 42mm, but it does not come across as light.The SLC does seem to have very easy eye placement (no glasses) that makes for quick and comfortable viewing.  I also really like the way Swaro does the diopter adjustment is the small incremental clicks which makes it very easy to lock in on a sharp focus.  One big difference between the two is the SF went with a lens flattener design.  The SF does have a potential issue of rolling ball for some individuals.  I personally like the flat field view but there are some members who would not take one for free and would grab the SLC in a heartbeat.  Both work for me.  Please let us know what you ultimately decide and how it works out.</blockquote>

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