Want to feel a little like James Bond? The Docter Monocular can give you that feeling, if only for a few minutes.
This tiny Docter monocular fits in the palm of your hand. It’s the small size that makes you feel like a secret agent when you use it.
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Contents
What Is So Special about the Docter Monocular?
As far as I know, the Docter 8×21 monocular is unique in the world of optics. It has a curious “S” shape that is largely what accounts for its compact size. (I haven’t found a definitive answer to what the “C” means in the full name of this monocular, but I think it stands for Compact.)
The 21 millimeter objective lens has something to do with this as well. It’s only half the size of the very common 42 millimeter objective found in many binoculars.
To use the Docter monocular properly, you have to fold, or bend, it first so that its two main sections are at a 90 degree angle to each other. This aligns the prisms inside correctly so that you see your target right side up.
Technically, you could use the Docter in its open position, but then everything would appear upside down.
When folded, you can hide the entire monocular in your hand. If you have average sized hands or larger, you might even be able to make a fist around it. This also adds to the James Bond quality of this unit.
What Are the Specifications of the Docter 8×21?
This German made monocular has just 2.6 millimeters for an exit pupil. You probably won’t be able to wear glasses when using it. There is no eyecup that would otherwise help this situation.
The close focus range is 2 meters, so you aren’t likely to use this out of the box for watching insects. However, you can get an accessory lens that, according to Docter, effectively turns this unit into a compact microscope. At that point, insects and other tiny objects should be readily visible to you.
The Field of View (FOV) is 110 meters at 1000 meters. That’s roughly 360 feet at 1000 yards, which is very good for a monocular of this size.
The entire monocular weighs just 80 grams, which is less than 3 ounces. It’s a real featherweight. Your hand or arm is not going to get tired using the Docter monocular due to its weight.
You get a leather case for storing the Docter monocular in its open, or flat, position. This makes it easy to slide into just about any pocket, purse, or other type of bag that you may have.
Docter gives you a 30 year warranty. During your first 5 years of ownership, they will repair or replace the unit due to defects in materials or workmanship. After that time, Docter will bear the cost of materials.
What’s the Verdict on the Docter 8×21?
The Docter 8×21 C monocular is the only one of its type readily available. Whether you want to play James Bond or not, you will appreciate the small size and wonderful quality of images you see through the lenses.
Update: Sadly, this monocular is now very difficult, if not impossible to find in unused condition. You can check Amazon below, but you may have to look for other options.
One owner made this comparison.
“I compared this to with two pairs of 10×25 Nikon binos (including a pair of Mikrons), a Zeiss Mini T, and a Leica Monovid. Only the Monovid showed some improvement, but it also has a much larger objective lens.”
If you don’t really want such a tiny monocular, check out this overview article that describes several others. You are almost certain to find one there that will suit your wants and needs.
