Helios Apollo High Resolution 15x70 Binoculars

[johninderby]

Been looking around at some 15x70 binos and came across the Helios Apollo. The specs look good but are they worth the money?

One thing that did look interesting about them is that you can use regular 1.25" filters on the eyepieces.

http://www.firstlightoptics.com/proddetail.php?prod=apollo_70mm_binoculars

Manufacturer's blurb

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Top quality waterproof , nitrogen filled observation binoculars, with individual eyepiece (IF) focusing, designed for medium-to-long-range terrestrial and astronomical observations. Shockproof design incorporating a robust all-metal body construction. Features BAK-4 prisms and a fully broadband multi-coated optical system. The high-resolution optical system features high-transmission lens and prism coatings allowing a massive 92% light transmission, producing a flat field a distortion-free images. Exotic eyepiece design featuring oversized elements and long eye-relief and fold-down rubber eyecups for spectacle-wearers. Features integral tripod mounting bush and threaded eyepiece units to accept standard 1.25” astronomical light-filters. Finished in stylish Black Rubber and supplied in foam-lined Aluminium storage/carrying case.

70mm Specification: Model 15x70

Magnification15x

Object Lens Diameter 70mm

Field of view4°

Exit Pupil Diameter4.66mm

Weight2.5kg

John

[nicnac]

there are a few posts regarding the apollo's in the observing with bins thread, i was looking at the same model not so long back

[argonaut]

The Series 8 binoculars are some of the best available on the market. To get anything better you would have to pay at least three times the price.

I have tried filters in my Garrett 15x70 Signatures (same model) and the effort was not really worth it. The images are quite crisp and clean and the CA is not so bad either.

Excellent binoculars.

Glen.

[johninderby]

Well after doing some more research and comparing the various 15x70s available I've gone ahead and ordered the Apollo 15x70s and they should be here tomorrow.

John