KOWA Japanese Precision Optics since 1894

KOWA is a Japanese technology conglomerate headquartered in Nagoya whose optics division ranks among the most respected in the world. Founded in 1894, this family-owned company looks back on over 130 years of history. Since 1946, KOWA has manufactured optical instruments – initially spectacle lenses and binoculars, from 1952 the legendary TSN spotting scopes, which were used as official equipment at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games. At Swiss-Sale.ch, you will find selected KOWA optics for nature observation and outdoor – with Swiss shipping and personal service.

From textile firm to global optics leader

What began in 1894 as a textile wholesale business is today a diversified conglomerate with over 8’000 employees and annual revenue exceeding 550 billion yen. The entry into optics came in 1946, when former technicians from the Japanese Navy established optical production in Gamagori. Since then, KOWA has continuously expanded and perfected its optics programme. The same precision standards that apply in medical technology and industrial optics flow directly into sport optics – a decisive advantage over pure consumer optics manufacturers.

Spotting scopes – the flagship discipline

KOWA spotting scopes enjoy an outstanding reputation among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. The flagship TSN-99 Prominar with its 99 mm objective and pure fluorite crystal is considered one of the finest spotting scopes available. The TSN-880 series (88 mm fluorite), the compact TSN-770 series (77 mm) and the versatile TSN-66 Prominar cover every application. The modular KOWA system allows interchange of eyepieces and adapters across all series – an investment that grows with the system.

Binoculars – from Genesis to SV II

The Genesis Prominar XD series is KOWA’s flagship binocular, competing directly against Swarovski EL, Zeiss SF and Leica Noctivid – with four XD lenses made from fluorite crystal for uncompromising optical performance. The BD II XD series offers XD lenses in the upper mid-range, while the SV II series delivers excellent value for money. For entry-level users, the lightweight YF series is available. From 22 mm compact binoculars to powerful 50 mm models, KOWA covers the full spectrum.

Digiscoping and accessories

KOWA is a pioneer in digiscoping – photography through spotting scopes and binoculars. With smartphone adapters from the TSN-IP series, adapter rings and a comprehensive eyepiece programme, KOWA offers a thoughtfully designed system for nature photography. The interchangeable eyepieces are compatible across different spotting scope series and enable combination with cameras and smartphones.

Brand Profile – KOWA

Who are KOWA products for?

• 🇯🇵 Over 130 years of Japanese corporate tradition – optical manufacturing since 1946
• 💎 Prominar technology with pure fluorite crystal for uncompromising imaging
• 🏆 TSN spotting scopes – among the world’s best for birdwatching
• 🔭 Genesis binoculars on par with Swarovski, Zeiss and Leica
• 📸 Comprehensive digiscoping system with smartphone and camera adapters
• 🔬 C3 prism coating with over 99% reflectance across the visible spectrum
• 🏭 Own manufacturing in Gamagori, Japan – same standards as medical technology
• 🥇 Official Olympic spotting scopes at the 1964 Tokyo Games
• 🔄 Modular system – eyepieces and adapters compatible across series
• 🇨🇭 Available at Swiss-Sale.ch with Swiss shipping and personal service