News

Carl Zeiss Sports Optics Introduces a New Standard in Spotting Scopes

Zeiss' New Diascope 65 T* FL and 85 T* FL Offer Leading-Edge Optics for the Ultimate in Image Quality

PMA 2002, ORLANDO, FL -- February 24, 2002 -- There is no better way to experience new birding opportunities and add more species to a life list than to use a spotting scope. Certain situations, such as observing sensitive birds from a distance or in wide plains, call for more than 7x to 10x binoculars. With the introduction of the Diascope 65 T* FL and the Diascope 85 T* FL from Carl Zeiss Sports Optics, birdwatchers, guides, explorers and wildlife enthusiasts now have the consummate spotting scopes that deliver clear, sharp and finely detailed images.

 

Positioned as the new industry standard, these two spotting scopes are priced appropriately above non-high definition (HD) competitive models with features that exceed HD models. Both models incorporate fluoride (FL) glass in the Advanced Optical System (AOS). This special glass provides the purest color and razor-sharp, edge-to-edge definition in its class. Furthermore, the superachromat objective system eliminates color fringing and provides superior image contrast compared to models with two or three objective lenses, thanks to world-renowned proprietary Carl Zeiss T* multi-layer/anti-reflective coating.

 

Available in a choice of straight-through or angled-bodies, both models include extended eye relief and twist-up eyecups. The straight-through version is great for observing birds on the ground or at eye level. The angled-eyepiece version eliminates neck strain that occurs when viewing birds perched high in a tree. This is also the best model to use with a tripod, as it can be positioned lower to the ground.

 

Two super wide-angle, fixed magnification eyepieces and one Vario zoom eyepiece are available for the Diascope 65 T* FL and 85 T* FL models -- providing numerous combination possibilities. Even at low magnifications, the zoom eyepiece offers an exceptionally wide field of view. The eyepieces feature a convenient bayonet mount with a safety catch for rapid changing.

 

The ergonomically correct dual focusing system includes two wheels, one for rapid focusing and another for fine adjustment with one hand. This was designed to eliminate any accidental focusing change in the field. The partial rubber armoring in the gripping area ensures a firm, reliable grip in the rain while an integrated slide-out sunshade provides convenient protection from direct sunlight and rain. The sunshade also features a quick sight rail for increased speed when lining up a distant object.

 

Housed in an aluminum alloy body, both models are corrosion-resistant and are the lightest in their class. The robust, water and dust-proof casing protects the Diascope when used in rough terrain or tropical climates, even with the eyepieces removed. Rapid changes in temperature have no influence on its optical performance as nitrogen filling prevents fogging of the lens elements inside the casing. All of these features are guaranteed by an industry-leading limited lifetime transferable warranty.

 

Notable accessories include a shoulder bag for each model for ease of carrying and four protective jackets for each individual Diascope model. A camera adapter will also be available in 2002 to fit most SLR cameras.

 

Diascope 65 T* FL -- The compact, lightweight spotting scope:
Like its big brother, this compact spotting scope contains a world renowned optical system, provides the same outstanding image quality, and meets the needs of even the most demanding professional user. With a length of just 11.81 inches and weighing a mere 2.43 pounds, it is ideal for observation in locations with long approach routes. The lower weight also allows the use of a lighter tripod.

 

Diascope 85 T* FL - The high-power spotting scope:
The new Diascope 85 T* FL is in a class all by itself in every respect. With its excellent weight/performance ratio -- just 3.20 pounds and 13.58 inches long -- it is very portable in the field. With a close focusing capability down to 16.3 feet, the Diascope 85 T* FL allows a closer view into the fascinating world of insects and animals without disturbing them.

 

Pricing (Suggested List)

Model:
65 mm -- $1199.00
85 mm -- $1499.00
23/30 eyepiece -- $299.00
30/40 eyepiece -- $299.00
Vario eyepiece -- $379.00

 

About Zeiss
For more than 155 years, Carl Zeiss has maintained a reputation for leading the evolution of optics to the high-tech precision that people know today. Headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany, the company is a world-renowned manufacturer of optics. Zeiss pioneered the development of binoculars in 1894 and continued to build on its strength as an innovator by introducing the world's first roof prism binocular in 1897 and inventing anti-reflective coating in 1935. The U.S. headquarters for the distribution of Zeiss sports optics is located in Chester, Virginia.

 

About Kyocera Optics, Inc.
Kyocera Optics, Inc., a division of Kyocera Corporation, markets a complete line of high-end photographic equipment including medium format, SLR, rangefinder and sophisticated compact-zoom cameras. The company also maintains the exclusive license to distribute Zeiss premium binoculars and accessories to the U.S. photography, birding and optometry markets.

 

Kyocera Corporation, the Japan-based parent and global headquarters of the Kyocera Group, is a 42-year-old, multi-billion-dollar conglomerate. Kyocera's diverse product line includes the Contax and Yashica camera lines. Kyocera was founded in 1959 and has grown to employ more than 40,000 people worldwide. In 1996, 1997 and 1998, and 1999 Kyocera was named by Industry Week magazine as one of "The World's 100 Best-Managed Companies.”