Zeiss has presented its all-new SFL 50 binocular, an extension of the company's SFL family of binocular. It combines the optical performance of a 50 mm binocular, with the size and weight category of competitors’ 42mm frame sizes. The SFL 50 is designed to perform at twilight and dusk, while still maintaining excellent portability. Available in three magnifications: 8x50, 10x50 and the most anticipated 12x50 model, the SFL 50 binoculars represent an impressive breakthrough in binocular technology and design. “With the SFL 50, we have been able to combine the optical performance of 50 mm binoculars in a design that is as compact and lightweight as a classic 42 mm model,” says Nur Ölmez, category manager at Zeiss.
Bright and Light
Thanks to its optical designs, with thinner lens elements and optimized spacing between lenses, the Zeiss SFL 50 saves on length and weight while still delivering on performance. The magnesium housing not only contributes to weight reduction but also ensures ruggedness, durability and better stability between extreme temperature shifts.
The Zeiss UHD Concept creates a light transmission value of 90-percent and the 50mm objective allows for an appreciably larger exit pupil—providing for an exceptional amount of light to reach the eyes. Particularly at twilight, when the eye’s pupil becomes wider, the large exit pupil of the SFL 50 ensures a bright, clear image. The large exit pupil, combined with the generous eye relief, affords quick access to a full image so that even moving subjects can be witnessed with ease.
“It is essential to be able to clearly see fine color nuances and details for accurate and responsible hunting—the SFL 50 makes exactly that possible,” says Ölmez. The Zeiss T* (T-star) premium lens coatings also optimize image brightness and color fidelity. This is further complemented by phase-corrected roof prisms and lenses with high-transmission values that ensure maximized clarity. Extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses are used to practically eliminate color fringing. In addition, the combination of Zeiss FieldFlattener Technology and aspherical lenses ensures consistent edge-to-edge image sharpness. With a wide field-of-view and a close focusing distance of just 5.9 feet, hunters can experience each important detail in an up-close manner.
Ergonomic and Robust
“We have developed the SFL 50 for comfortable and intuitive observation—with a perfectly balanced design and precise focusing,” reports Ölmez. The SmartFocus system allows for fast and precise focusing requiring just 1.4 turns of the focus wheel to go from close focus distance to infinity. Designed with ergonomics in mind, the focus wheel is positioned to ensure comfortable handling without the need to overstretch fingers, which helps maintain a more stabilized image. The optimized weight shift to the eyepiece ensures a more comfortable balance and enables extended and relaxed observation sessions. Even in poor weather conditions, the SFL 50 retains a clear view. Thanks to the LotuTec protective lens coating, water will roll off the lenses, while the nitrogen purging prevents the binoculars from fogging up—regardless of shifts in temperature.
Prices and Availability
The new SFL 50 binoculars will be available from Zeiss Authorized Dealers by the end of April 2025, at the following prices:
- Zeiss SFL 8x50: $1,799.99
- Zeiss SFL 10x50: $1,799.99
- Zeiss SFL 12x50: $1,999.99—with tripod adapter included
For more information, please visit zeiss.com.
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