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 or 4 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 limited stocks of one model that was made there – the 3x17 opera glass featureing a Lornette handle - very stylish. This model was recently featured in The Times. They were hand made by highly skilled craftsmen but when they retired, production came to an end.

After a year of searching we finally sourced a new range from China.  We have been very pleased with these and have had five models made at the same factory – a 3x18 in Champagne & Gold, three 3x25s - a Dark Red & Gold model with chain, a Red & Gold with a Lornette Handle and red LED Programme Light and a Black & Gold with red LED Programme Light - great for reading the programme, but equally useful if you drop something on the floor! The newest addition is a 4x30 model in Gold finish. 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.