I would agree that lens coatings can make a difference, especially when comparing a coated to an uncoated lens surface. I am not certain that I would agree with you that Zeiss optical coating processes are that much better than say the better Nikon stuff for example.

I am very familiar with lens quality and can tell you that the differences between two high-end lenses (not lens coatings) are microscopic and totally undiscernable in most practical applications.

I am aware that Zeiss is one of the top manufacturers of optics, as are Leica and Swarovski. However, it is my opinion that the prices they charge are an exercise in diminishing returns........you may pay 250 to 300% more but get only a 15% rise in quality. Many hunters and other sports enthusiasts couldn't tell the difference if you covered the names on a pair of Zeiss and a pair of high-end Nikons of the same power.

If you hunt out West or Alaska or some other area where you're going to spend a vast amount of time glassing large expanses under difficult conditions and you'll be doing this year after year, then I'd go along with the purchase of a $800 or $1200 pair of glasses. Some can cost even more than that.

Is it really worth that much extra? That's a personal decision, I guess.


Just my opinion.