I see these old classic zeiss binos for sale on Ebay between $700 and $1000. I was just wondering how they compare to the newer Zeiss Victory FL and Swarovski EL binos? I am most interested in 10x40 to 10x42 size.

The "Classic" series contain some great binocs. That said and without looking at the price, both the Victory FL and ELs are considerably more modern designs, and it shows.

For the $$$, the Classics may not be a bad choice. If money is no objection, you'll want to look hard at some of the newer stuff.

- mike

I use Classics nearly everyday. There are better choices both for less money and more money. Time and coating improvements have left them behind but not hopelessly outclassed.

I have a pair of 10x42 Zeiss Classics, they were my first pair of really good binoculars. In the $600-$800 I think they are an excellent pair of binoculars, maybe some newer designs from 2nd tier makers might be as good but the old Classics are good and tough. I still keep them as my backup pair.
My 10x42 EL's are noticably better optically as are my 8x32 FL's. I wouldn't say however that they are Twice as good as the classics though both were more than twice the price...........................DJ

Not nearly as good optically as the current Zeiss FL's. They rarely fog however. Something the Swaros do regularly in places like alaskan bear camps from what I gather.
You can do better for the money these days. You can match their optics for $500 or less. E

Take an unexpected fall, roll down a rocky hill. Then let's chat about superiority.

Zeiss' 8x30 B/GA IF Olive, the commercial version of the Bundeswehr's NATO binocular, is the most durable binocular, without qualification.

While optics may be marginally superior on some current binoculars, a binocular is two telescopes mounted to yield one image. This device is necessarily a delicate one. No way around that. Best-quality designs are intended to maintain their ability to furnish said image indefinitely.

Binoculars using injection molded plastic barrels have a reputation for not withstanding severe impact (Refer to paragraph 1). Best-quality "H" body binoculars, to a lesser extent "E" bodies also, having die cast aluminum alloy barrels, have a better reputation for durability than plastic, and incidentally, die cast magnesium alloys.

Please note that the binocular I tout is not a central focusing device. It was in production for about 40 years before being discontinued in, I believe, 2003 (1964-2003). During its production run optical improvements were incorporated without fanfare.

I love my old West German 10x40 Classics but on testing them one night against my new Leica 8x30s, I was surprised to find the 8x30s gathered more light than the old 10X40s.
I recently bought a pair of as new West German 8x30 Classics.
Another toy for the collection.