I'm far from an expert, but I can honestly say my Optolyth 9x63 BGA are one of the best I've used. I don't know if they are worth $1200 or not. I bought mine way back when, on a promotional deal, for half that. Comparing the price of Swarovski or Zeis, they aren't a bad deal. Big, heavy and kind of clunky looking, but they sure enough get the job done.
I have a pair of Nikon variables 50mm that are good, clear image. The down side is the UV coating is a little too good. I use them as my loaners (I never loan out my good Binos) and for sporting events. Not my first choice for low light.