Magnification: 10X
Power Variability: Fixed
Objective Diameter: 42 mm
Close Focus Distance: 6.5 feet
Dimensions: 6.5 x 4.7 inches
Weight: 28 ounces
Field of View: 345 feet/1000 yards
Eye Relief/Exit Pupil: 17 mm/ 4.2 mm
Optics Coatings: Fully Multi-Coated
Glass: Schott HD
Prism System: Schmidt-Pechan
Focus System: Center
Waterproof/Fog-proof: Yes/Yes
Eye cups: Twist up/lockable
Tripod adaptable: Yes
Rangefinder: No
Best Uses: Hunting, For the Range, Birdwatching, Wildlife Observation
Zeiss Conquest HD 10x42 Binocular Review
This Zeiss Conquest HD 10X42 binocular has razor-sharp image quality thanks to the HD Lens System, Schott Glass, and LotuTec coatings. Its wide field of view, robust build, ergonomic design, and rotating and lockable eyecups are worth more than any amount of money you'll end up paying for this mid-class binocular.
Online it has a fantastic rating with quite a few fans posting their opinions about this premium binocular. Even though it has a lavish price tag, this Conquest is in Zeiss' mid-level range. It kind of makes you wonder what premium is to Zeiss right?
I wanted to feature a mid-level binocular from Zeiss and it brought me straight to the Conquest series.
Out of seven Conquest options to choose from, I went again with the ever-popular 10X42. Not surprisingly, it also had the most reviewer input about it online.
Are you wondering why a mid-level binocular is priced like a high-end binocular? To answer your question and any others you may have about the Conquest binocular, I've provided you with a detailed Q&A.
Pros:
- Excellent quality glass
- Excellent coating quality
- Fully weatherproof
- Tripod adaptable
- Made in Germany
Cons:
- Price
Zeiss's Conquest HD 10X42 Binocular Q&A:
What are Schmidt-Pechan prisms?
This Conquest has the high-end Schmidt-Pechan prism system. Although it sounds really fancy, it's just a variation of the roof prism system also known as the Pechan prism pair.
Without getting into the extremely complicated technicalities of light reflections, image erecting systems, refraction indexes, and the like, it should suffice it to say that Zeiss nails it with the Schmidt-Pechan prism.
The quality of the prism assembly allows light to literally fold within such a tiny space that allows roof prism binos to be made more compact and lighter weight than porro prism binoculars.
With specially formulated mirror and phase-corrected coatings, this Conquest bino provides razor-sharp, bright, and chromatic aberration-free images. Resolution and contrast is going to be at its maximum.
Does this 10x42 Conquest HD binocular have an external lens coating?
Yes! The Conquest has Zeiss' extraordinary LotuTec coating that's saved for their premium optics. It's the external coating that gets applied to the lenses to provide them with resistant and protectant qualities.
LotuTec works under the same concept as that of the self-cleansing process of the lotus leaf.
When dirt, oil, and water make contact with lens that have been treated with their proprietary Clean Coat of LotuTec, the lens will repel and resist and the debris will simply roll or fall off.
Consequently, the lens cleaning process is going to be a breeze.
Additionally, the Clean Coat formula is also reinforced with nano-particles for hardness and durability qualities. You'll know if your binocular has the feature because it's called the LotuTec AR coating.
Also, the green tint of the LotuTec treatment is also a good anti-reflective agent, helping to keep glare at a minimum while allowing as much light in as possible.
Are there any other binoculars in the Zeiss Conquest series?
This 10X42 is only one of seven binoculars in the Conquest series. These are the following available binoculars: 8X32, 10X32, 8X42, 10X42, 8X56, 10X56, and the 15X56.
The most popular Conquest binoculars after the featured 10X42 model is the 8X42 and the 15X56.
It seems that if hunters are prepared to buy a Zeiss Conquest binocular that doesn't have the favored 10X42 platform, they're either going small or going big.
Which end of the scale do you fall into?
- Zeiss Conquest 10 x 42 HD Binocular - Case with Belt Loop - Neoprene Strap - Eyepiece Rainguard - Zeiss Warranty
- AAoV of 52.8deg
Is the Conquest HD binocular "German Glass"?
If you're looking for something to impress your hunting buddies, then this Conquest is it. Other than being around $1000, its exceptional brightness, razor-sharp detail, and its German reputation more than makes up for it.
This is the epitome of what you would consider "German Glass".
This Conquest has the famous Schott glass and is made right there in Germany - none of this outsourcing stuff going on, the Conquest is far too good for that.
So, if you're into brand names and labels, as well as the performance to back it up, the Conquest conquers all.
Noteworthy Features:
- Schmidt-Pechan prism system with Schott Glass for HD image quality
- Twist up eyecups with lockable setting for perfect fit
- LotuTec technology for ultimate lens protection and easy cleaning
- Fully waterproof and fog-proof to survive the harshest weather conditions
- Durable rubber armor housing for ultimate protection in even the most rugged terrain
- Made in Germany
- Backed by Zeiss' Limited Lifetime Transferable Warranty
Our Verdict On The Zeiss Conquest 10x42 HD Binocular
To glass it up, the Zeiss Conquest HD 10X42 binoculars are the epitome of high quality, German optics. While the price tag is a hefty one, it's definitely "cheap" when it comes to world-class brands. And since we are such big fans of the Conquest, we awarded it a place on our 'Best Binoculars Under $1000' list.
Seriously though, if the budget just doesn't stretch that far, you're not totally out of luck. Take a look at the Zeiss Terra ED 10x42 binoculars to really see how Zeiss can be extra friendly to your budget. Or, you could check out some of the other binocular brands we have reviewed.
To be fair in offering alternatives, you have to check out the competitive MeoPro HD 10x42 binoculars. You just might find a pleasing surprise as to where Meopta gets their glass. Check them out if you want to know what we're raving on about!
Zeiss is right up there with Leica and Swarovski. They're the best at what they do, and they have the glass to prove it. When you hear hunters talkin' 'bout German glass, Zeiss is who they're referring to!
Further Reading
- Zeiss Terra ED 10x42 Binocular Review (High Quality & Affordable Price)
- Zeiss Conquest HD 10x42 Binoculars Review (Compact & High Definition)
- What Do the Numbers On Binoculars Mean?
- Vortex Viper HD 10x42 Binocular Review (VPR-4210-HD) with ArmorTek
- Vortex Razor HD 12x50 Binocular Review - Very High Quality (RZB-2104)
Thank you for the excellent post. I am looking for portable, durable binos for small game. I like the compact 10X42 category. Since this will be my first pair of binoculars as an adult, ran through a couple of Tasco's in my youth (as mentioned in the article :)), I want them to be for life. I really like Leupold and Vortex, as I prefer American brands and like the price range. Steiner or Zeiss would be the dream, but no way I can justify spending a grand on one recreational tool. Your piece really helped me narrow down the choices and decide what features are most important to me.
Thanks for the feedback Ayan, I am glad you enjoyed the article and found it helpful.