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New for 2009, Nikon introduced the Monarch X Series binoculars.  Building on the already enormously popular Monarch ATB series binoculars that have been top-rated best sellers for almost a decade, the new Monarch X binoculars have big shoes to fill. 

I was first introduced to the new Monarch X binocular at the 2009 SHOT Show in Orlando Florida.  Prior to arriving at the show, we were told to expect some big news on a new binocular.  SHOT show is generally the place vendors introduce new products for the season, and in the prior year Nikon introduced the new EDG Series binoculars.  We were very excited to see what Nikon had waiting for us.

The all new Nikon Monarch X Binoculars

Available in 10.5×45 and 8.5×45models, the new Monarch X binoculars were designed for both the birding and hunting market.  The first thing you will notice on these new binoculars is the open-bridge design made so popular in many European branded binoculars.  This open-bridge design makes them lighter and more importantly easier to grip and handle.  They also feature turn-and-slide style eyecups with multi-click stop points for easy positioning to your eyes.  While this is nothing new, it is a feature that is so nice to have in a binocular to get them “customized” to your favorite position.

Priced about 300$ over the popular Nikon Monarch binoculars

With a price of 579.95 for the 8.5×45 and 599.95 for the 10.5×45 model the Nikon Monarch X series are priced about 300 higher than the popular 8×42 and 10×42Monarch ATB binoculars.  If you do any research reviews of the Monarch ATB binoculars, you will find they are a proven best seller and truly are a great binocular for around 300$.  If your not ready for that $1200 Zeiss, or even the $2000 Swarovski, the Nikon Monarch X binoculars are a fantastic high-end binocular without the enormous price tag.

Side-by-side with the Monarch X Binoculars

The first thing I wanted to compare was how much better were the Monarch X binoculars to the original Monarch ATB binoculars.  I compared the 10×42 Monarch binocular to the 10.5×45 Monarch X binocular.  Even though they have slightly different magnifications and objective lenses, they stay consistent with a 4.2mm exit pupil, so I still found it relevant to compare them side by side.  Immediately the optical quality is noticed switching between the binoculars on a bright subject about 100 yards away.  Overall brightness and color were preferred on the Monarch X binocular.  Most noticeable was the edge-to-edge sharpness difference - the Monarch is very good for a 300$ binocular, however it was substantially better on the more expensive Monarch X binocular.

Overall impression on the Monarch X binocular

I think Nikon filled a great need with this binocular and users will love it.  If your budget minded, the original Monarch ATB binocular is a great choice, however if you want to see what high-end optics can deliver, the Monarch X is a perfect binocular that keeps the price reasonable.  If you have 2000$ to spend on a Swarovski or Zeiss, then go for it, but for under $600 I think this new Monarch X Series of binoculars will be pretty tough to beat.