Old Spotting Scopes

I've got a Kowa TSN-3 which im not sure qualifies as old (mid-1980's production)

I believe it was the first of the Prominar lineup (featuring pure flourite objective)

Variable power eyepieces have come a long way since then (largely due to coatings), but with a modern ocular the view is staggering, giving up very little to current production top of the line $5k scopes.

Vintage glass can be SUPRISINGLY good!
 
The Kowa TS-1 and TS-2 spotting scopes were first released in Japan and became popular models sold for 36 years. These models were used extensively during the Tokyo Olympics in 1964 and were known for their quality and performance. Additionally, Kowa's TS-1 was sold by Bushnell as their first Spacemaster spotting scope, indicating a close relationship between the two brands.
 
I've got a Swarovski, 20-60x80.

Made in the early 90s, it's still as good or better than any of the more modern spotting scopes available. The only drawback, it's heavy.

The variable eyepiece, which is removable, and a camera, such as my Nikon digital, will screw onto the threads.

I bought it second hand over 25 years ago.

The eypiece costs more than most off the shelf spotting scopes.

Great in low light, sharp and clear right out to the edges.

I went through a lot of scopes before settling on this one.
 
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