Zeiss Conquest HDX 8x42 binoculars

Zeiss Conquest HDX 8x42 binoculars

The Zeiss Conquest HDX 8x42 is the most versatile all-round binocular in the model series. The 8x magnification and 42mm objective lens are a combination that works stably handheld even during long observations and also copes well in low light.

Conquest HDX features Zeiss FieldFlattener technology to improve image edge sharpness. In a standard binocular optical design, the image starts to soften towards the edges, with FieldFlattener technology the sharpness remains consistent across the entire image area. In practice, a bird moving at the edge or a distant forest edge is as sharp as an object in the center of the image.

• 90% light transmission – bright and contrasting image even in low light
• ED glass and FieldFlattener technology: sharp image from edge to edge, minimal chromatic aberration
• Zeiss T* multi-layer coating: high contrast and natural colors
• Durable magnesium body, fully waterproof and nitrogen-filled
• Field of view from 1000m distance: 128m and apparent angle of view 59°

Optical quality and low-light viewing

The optical performance of the HDX series is built on three things. ED lenses reduce chromatic aberration, or color error: the outlines of objects remain sharp and colors look true. FieldFlattener technology keeps the image sharp throughout the entire image area, even to the edges. Zeiss T* multi-layer coating, meanwhile, increases contrast and light transmission.

The night vision index of the 8x42 model is 18.3, the higher the number, the more details are visible in low light. The exit pupil diameter is 5.25mm, clearly more than the 4.2mm of the 10x42 model, for example.

The exit pupil is the light beam that the binoculars form in the eye: the larger it is, the more light reaches the eye in low light. In practice, this is seen as a better image at dawn or after sunset. The binoculars are excellent for birdwatching at dusk, near wetlands or in dense forests where light is otherwise scarce.

Usability and ergonomics

The focus wheel has been praised by active enthusiasts, the adjustment movement is smooth and the accuracy is good. The eyecups are stepless and adjustable, so the binoculars are also suitable for use with glasses: the eye relief is 18mm. The diopter locks in place so that once adjusted, the setting remains secure and cannot be changed accidentally. The foldable lens covers remain attached to the binoculars during use or can be removed.

The magnesium body is rubber-coated, lightweight but durable for tough camping use. The 8x magnification remains stable in the hand even during long observations, and the wide field of view makes it easy to find targets quickly.

Zeiss Conquest HDX series

The HDX series includes the models 8x32, 10x32, 8x42, 10x42, 8x56, 10x56 and 15x56. The 8x42 is the most versatile general model in the series, stable in the hand and also works in low light. If you regularly observe in very low light, you should also take a look at the 8x56 model: its larger objective lens brings significantly more light into the eye and the night vision index increases to 21.2.

If your subjects are often very far away or you mostly observe from a stationary tripod, a 10x42 may be a better choice. It provides a sharper view of distant subjects, but requires a steadier hand, and a tripod mount or tripod adapter may be a good idea.

10 year warranty!

Specifications:

• Magnification: 8x
• Objective lens diameter: 42mm
• Lens type: HD (extra-low dispersion)
• Light transmission: 90%
• Field of view at 1000m distance: 128m
• Apparent angle of view: 59°
• Exit pupil diameter: 5.25mm
• Twilight number: 18.3
• Eye relief: 18mm
• Closest focusing distance: 2m
• Prism type: Schmidt-Pechan
• Coatings: LotuTec / Zeiss T*
• Nitrogen-filled: yes
• Waterproof: 400 mbar (can withstand immersion to a depth of 4m for a short time, so rain won't be felt anywhere)
• Weight: 795g

The sales package includes:

• Zeiss Conquest HDX 8x42 binoculars
• Carrying case
• Belt
• Lens protectors
• Quick Start Guide