HILKINSON OPERA GLASSES

Hilkinson opera glasses, sometimes known as theatre glasses, are ornate and beautifully finished. A very good fashion statement, but one that never dates. The magnification is 3 times and you should be aware that this does not compete with our binoculars that start at 6 times magnification. They are not intended to compete. However they are much better at picking up all the available light, hence their use indoors.

The factory in Japan that made our opera glasses has closed but we still have stocks of three models that were made there – the 3x20 Black and Gold is a very traditional design, the 3x17 Red Marble & Gold opera glass is tastefully finished and features a useful LED Programme Light. Great for reading the programme, but also excellent if you drop something on the floor! The other 3x17 opera glass features a Lornette handle - very stylish. This model was recently featured in The Times. They were all hand made by highly skilled craftsmen.

For many years our most successful opera glass was a 3x27, but when the craftsman who made them retired, production came to an end. After a year of searching we finally sourced a replacement from China.  We have been very pleased with these and so have had three more models made at the same factory – a 3x18 Champagne & Gold and two 3x25s - a Dark Red & Gold model with chain and a Black & Gold with red LED Programme Light. All are stunningly good value.

These are quality products that make that very special present at any time. All these opera glasses are supplied with either a soft carry case with wrist strap or a soft draw string pouch.

As a compromise between an opera glass and a binocular, we have the 6x21 ultra compact binocular. This is small enough to slip into a pocket or bag and features a red programme light. The 6x magnification allows it to be used as a small binocular.