Swarovski Optik

Wilhelm Swarovski began producing binoculars in 1935, and this business expanded during World War II. The modern company developed from the Swarovski binocular production factory, and was established as a separate optical company in 1949.[2] During World War II, Swarovski created rifle scopes that were used on the German Mannlicher M1895 and Karabiner 98k rifles.

Swarovski CL 8x25 binoculars

• 1935 First Swarovski binoculars, which was a 6x30
• 1949 Formation of Swarovski Optik
• 1959 First Swarovski Optik rifle scope (4x32)
• 1967 First Swarovski Optik extendable spotting scope (30x75)
• 1974 Kahles was purchased by Swarovski Optik[3]
• 1977 Kahles became a branch of Swarovski Optik[3]
• 1989 Kahles Limited again became an independent company within the Swarovski group[3]
• 1991 First AT 80 telescope
• 1993 First hunting rifle scope with reticle illumination
• 1995 First rifle scope with integrated laser range finder
• 1999 First binoculars with wrap-around grip, named EL
• 2007 First Swarovski rifle scope with 6x zoom
• 2016 First Swarovski rifle scope with 8x zoom[4]
• 2017 Kahles was again brought into the Swarovski advertising and sales programs[3]

It specialises in the development and manufacturing of long-range optical instruments in the premium segment of the market, including binoculars, telescopes (spotting scopes), rifle scopes, range finders and night sight devices.

The turnover in 2010 was 94 million euro (2009: 87 million euro), 90% of which represented exports. The company employs about 700 people.[5]

Swarovski Optik is part of the Swarovski group. Swarovski Optik holds a royal warrant of appointment to Queen Elizabeth II, granted in 2009.[6][7]

Swarovski Optik produces the following series of products.

• Official website