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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Graham Osborne" data-source="post: 213458" data-attributes="member: 4097">I have a secondhand EDIIIA (originally dating from 1999) which I consider to be an excellent little scope. However, my instruction manual provides different infromation from Tallgrass's. Under the heading 'Notes on waterproof models' it states:"Fieldscope III series models are waterproof and airtight. Therefore, they can be used in harsh conditions - blur or growth of mould rarely occurs inside the optical system of these Fieldscopes even if they are exposed to rain or wind, splashed on while on board a boat, or used in a hot, humid or dusty place. However, do not immerse them in water under any circumstances. Any moisture on the lens surface should be wiped off lightly. In addition, we recommend that you have your waterproof-type Fieldscope checked regularly to keep it in optimal condition".I am afraid that I took this information at face value, and on a recent whale-watching trip, after several hours of fairly persistent rain, I found that both the inside of the objective and one prism surface were heavily misted. Perhaps I should have known better after my experience with a pair of 'waterproof' Swift Audubons, but I really thought that Nikon would be more reliable. Fortunately, I was able to project the sun through the scope the next day, and this got rid of the misting. The scope is now ok except for a minor stain on the prism which I do think effects the optical performance in any way. What I have learnt is that a 5 year old EDIIIA that has not been serviced cannot be relied upon as being waterproof, and that the custom-made Nikon stay-on cover I have since purchased is an essential piece of kit in wet weather.The 10-year Limited Warranty on the scope is not transferable, although I am not too worried about this as I got it for a very good price.Graham</blockquote>

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