Up for auction, from my collection is an early model of the legendary, extremely long running Swarovski Habicht 7x42 M-DV binoculars with serial number 1704282. Complete with the original black leather neck strap and plastic ocular rain guard, and carton presentation box (not with the same serial number, but same production run; interior of box is missing). No case. Ready for use in the field, or to be kept in a collection. Made in Tirol, Austria, by Swarovski - one of the world’s best optical companies (next to Leica and Zeiss, of Germany, as a matter of taste, but nowadays ‘Swaro’ is the best for many professional users of binoculars). In very good used condition, both optically and mechanically: focussing wheel and dioptre control work smooth and precise, hinge firm; lenses clean and unscratched, no internal haze or fungus, very clear and sharp view, well collimated. Leatherette covering good and undamaged. Black metal parts show clear signs of use (some scuffs and small dents), black paint of the central bridge worn off. Please study the pictures. This traditional leather covered model, with ‘Swarovski-Optik Tirol’ in the crystal logo (on the left) and ‘Habicht 7x42’ in the crystal logo (on the right) was produced from 1962 till 1989. The serial number 1704282 dates it back to the mid 1970’s. The success of this porro model is reflected in the incredibly long production period: in 1949 the 7x42 Habicht was the Swarovski company’s first serial product and it is still in active production. The latest models sell, when new (retail price) for euro 1000 (black leathered) and euro 1200 (green rubber armoured). This success is based on the extraordinarily clear image, large exit pupils (very comfortable to the human eye), excellent mechanical and build quality, light weight, resistant to shock, and the slim housing that is very comfortable and stable in the hand, even with gloves. From personal experience, I regard the Habicht 7x42 the best porro prism binoculars available (even better than the Nikon SE), with one minor disadvantage: the rather limited field of view (114m/1000m), compared to Swarovski’s roof prism models. But the depth of field (that needs adjustment of focussing) is great. Dimensions: 150 x 175 x 55 mm; weight 540 g. Minimum focussing distance 3,5 m.