The Kowa Genesis 8.5x44 Binoculars mark the peak in Kowa's line of roof prism binoculars. They are engineered for the utmost in performance, viewing quality and durability. These binoculars are an optical luxury worth every penny as they easily hold their ground with other brands of premium sport optics. The 8.5x44 binoculars mate Kowa's own Prominar ED glass to minimize chromatic aberration with C3 optical multi-coatings that allow an unheard of 99% transmissivity of each element between 400 and 700 nm, a feature that is very helpful when spotting birds. Most other units competing in the Genesis' range average 95%, and as such, the Genesis series binoculars certainly stand out from the crowd. All Genesis series binoculars feature a lightweight yet extremely rugged magnesium frame that is the foundation of the waterproof and fogproof body. Optically, the unit can focus down to an amazing 5.5' and the boost in objective lens size from a more common 42mm to 44mm provides a clear view that is 10% brighter. Internal focusing aids in keeping the overall operating size from becoming unwieldy.