Buy Swarovski Binoculars: Austria's Cheaper Option

Swarovski Optik is a subsidiary of the Swarovski Group, which was founded in 1895 as a crystal-cutting workshop. The company's current optics division, Swarovski Optik, was formed in 1949 and is based in Absam, Tyrol, Austria. The company's binoculars are widely regarded as premium products, used by professionals such as researchers in Antarctic stations and ornithologists. However, the high-end instruments are also gaining traction among non-professionals who enjoy exploring nature. While the brand is synonymous with quality, its products are also known to be more expensive than those of its competitors.

Swarovski Optik's headquarters and main production site

Swarovski Optik, the optics division of the Swarovski group of companies, is headquartered in Absam, Tyrol, Austria. The Swarovski Group is a family-owned business that was originally founded in 1895 as a crystal-cutting workshop. Its current optics subdivision, Swarovski Optik, was formed in 1949 and is managed by members of the Swarovski family.

The main production site for Swarovski Optik is located in Absam, Wattens, on the outskirts of Tyrol, Austria. The company employs over 960 people at the Absam factory, which covers an area of 39,000 square metres. The vast majority of the development and manufacturing processes for Swarovski Optik products have taken place at this site since the company's foundation. The staff's expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and the unique setting have shaped the brand and its values for decades.

Swarovski Optik specialises in the development and manufacturing of sport optics in the premium segment of the market. Its products include binoculars, telescopes (spotting scopes), rifle scopes, range finders, and night sight devices. The company's success is attributed to its innovative strength, product quality, functional and aesthetic design, and commitment to environmental sustainability.

In 2020, Swarovski Optik completed a 27 million euro infrastructure project, constructing a new production building and administration facility. The new production building houses an anodization plant, optical component production and assembly facilities, and a technical centre. The administration building provides 60 workspaces in a bright and healthy atmosphere.

Swarovski binoculars in the US vs. Europe

Swarovski binoculars are widely regarded as top-of-the-line optics, offering exceptional brightness, clarity, crispness, and contrast. The company's commitment to precision and innovation has earned it numerous awards and a reputation for producing high-quality, long-range optical equipment.

When it comes to pricing, there seems to be a consensus that Swarovski binoculars are cheaper in the US compared to Europe. This is particularly true when purchasing from the US through mail order, as local sales tax doesn't apply. However, it's worth noting that Swarovski Optik North America (SONA) does not provide a lifetime warranty for products purchased outside of their supplied dealers, which may be a factor to consider.

In terms of specific models, the Swarovski EL binocular with Swarovision is a notable example that has received high praise for its optical performance. It features a combination of field flattener lenses made with fluoride, long eye relief, and optimized coatings, resulting in exceptional color fidelity and detail. The EL line was also the world's first binocular range with a 'wrap-around' grip and won the 'Best of the Best Award' in 1999.

Swarovski Optik is headquartered in Absam, Austria, and has a strong environmental commitment, actively contributing to habitat preservation. The company's success is attributed not only to its technical innovations but also to its appreciation for nature, with nature conservation projects and environmentally friendly production methods.

Overall, Swarovski binoculars are known for their superior optical performance, innovative features, and ergonomic design, making them a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts alike. While they may carry a higher price tag, their resale value and longevity make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking the best in class.

Swarovski's acquisition of KAHLES

Swarovski Optik, the sports optics division of the Swarovski group, acquired KAHLES in 1974. KAHLES is an Austrian manufacturer of high-quality sports optics, including riflescopes, binoculars, red dot sights, and range-finding devices. The acquisition aimed to strengthen Swarovski's sports optics business, particularly its riflescope technology.

The history of KAHLES dates back to 1898 when Karl Robert Kahles merged two Vienna-based optics workshops, the Simon Plossl Company and Karl Fritsch's optomechanical workshop. The company initially focused on manufacturing telescopes and binoculars for astronomy but soon expanded into the production of riflescopes. In 1900, KAHLES unveiled the Telorar telescopic sight for hunting rifles, which became popular among hunters. Over the years, KAHLES patented several riflescope features that are still used today.

During World War II, KAHLES, like many other Austria-based manufacturers, was forced to produce military-grade optics products for the German armed forces. The company suffered significant damage and losses during this period. After the war, Friedrich Kahles III, the grandson of the founder, led the company's restructuring and recovery. In 1949, KAHLES introduced the first Helia-series riflescope with variable magnification, and in 1960, they developed the first waterproof riflescopes.

Following the acquisition by Swarovski Optik in 1974, KAHLES became a branch of Swarovski Optik. However, in 1989, it was declared an independent company within the Swarovski group due to its popularity among customers. KAHLES continued to innovate and introduced features such as automatic-light and Multi-zero adjustment in their products.

While KAHLES maintained its separate brand identity, it closely collaborated with Swarovski Optik in the design and manufacturing of sports optics products. In 2012, KAHLES opened a new manufacturing facility in Guntramsdorf, Lower Austria, focusing on the production of riflescopes. The company's main production facility for binoculars remains in Vienna, Austria.

The acquisition of KAHLES by Swarovski Optik combined the expertise and heritage of two renowned optics companies. This merger allowed Swarovski to enhance its riflescope technology and establish itself as a leader in the sports optics market.

Swarovski's customer service

Swarovski is a crystal-cutting company founded in 1895 by Daniel Swarovski, his brother-in-law Franz Weis, and Armand Kossmann. The company is currently headquartered in Absam, a municipality city near Wattens in Tyrol, Austria. The company has expanded into three major industries: Swarovski Optik, Swarovski Crystals, and Tyrolit. The former deals with the manufacturing of riflescopes, binoculars, and rangefinders, while Swarovski Crystals produces crystal glass and jewelry products. Tyrolit, on the other hand, manufactures grinding and drilling tools.

Swarovski Optik's main production site is located in Absam, Wattens, on the outskirts of Tyrol, Austria. The company employs over 960 people at the Absam factory and is one of the few remaining optics manufacturers in Europe that have not outsourced any of its products outside the country. This has made Swarovski an ultra-reliable brand for expert hunters and outdoorsmen. The factory in Tyrol also incorporates a research and development section, a training school, and a product showroom.

Swarovski offers various ways to get in touch with their customer service team. One way is through their website, where customers can fill out a form with their details and a description of their query. The website also provides a live chat feature, allowing customers to chat with a customer service representative in real time. Additionally, customers can choose to call or email Swarovski directly. The company's customer service team is available during specific opening hours, which are listed on the website.

In terms of product repairs, Swarovski recommends taking the item, along with proof of purchase, to the nearest Swarovski store for assessment. If a fault is found and is covered by the warranty, the company will offer an exchange or repair. Even if the damage is outside the scope of the warranty, Swarovski may still be able to offer a repair service for a charge.

When it comes to returning online orders, Swarovski provides detailed instructions on its website. Customers are required to register their return by visiting returns.swarovski.com and obtaining a return label or QR code. They can then pack the item securely and return it according to the instructions provided by the chosen carrier. It's important to keep the proof of return and tracking details for future reference. The return process typically takes around 14 working days upon receipt of the item at Swarovski's warehouse. Once the return is processed, a confirmation email will be sent, and a full refund will be issued to the original payment method.

While Swarovski products are available for purchase in various countries, including Austria and the United States, the prices may vary depending on the region. Some customers have reported finding better prices in the United States compared to Europe, while others have found prices to be higher in certain European countries like Austria and Switzerland. It is worth noting that Swarovski Optik North America (SONA) does not provide lifetime warranty service for products not purchased from authorized dealers, so it is essential to consider this when purchasing Swarovski products abroad.

Swarovski's environmental commitment

Swarovski's sustainability strategy is built on three pillars: Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Conscious Materials, and Waste & Circularity.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Swarovski has joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to reduce its emissions. The company has set ambitious targets, including reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 47% and Scope 3 emissions by 28% by 2030. They plan to achieve this through investing in renewable energy infrastructure, introducing electrification, and outbalancing energy consumption with renewable Energy Attribute Certificates.

Conscious Materials

Swarovski is committed to using more sustainable materials and has pledged to launch at least one sustainable product family per year. By 2030, they aim to source all their metals from responsibly managed and recycled sources.

Waste & Circularity

The company is working to reduce waste and promote circularity by partnering with external experts, improving material efficiency, transitioning to certified or recycled packaging, and transforming their operations to become 90% landfill-free.

Swarovski also has initiatives to reduce water usage and chemical use in their crystal-cutting processes, such as closed-loop wastewater treatment systems and the removal of certain chemicals from the process.

In addition to their environmental initiatives, Swarovski is committed to social responsibility and philanthropy. The Swarovski Foundation, established in 2013, promotes sustainable livelihoods through education and initiatives focusing on equity, water, and creativity.

Frequently asked questions