What makes high end optics so expensive?

[JGRaider]

This is super interesting to me - wondering if it's an issue of the chemical makeup/application of the lens coatings, or something else...

Anyone else have experience with optics fading or getting blurry as they get older?

It's a ridiculous statement is what it is.

 

[JGRaider]

Vortex anything is going to fade over time. Wether it's a year or 3 years. They going to fade, get blurry on edges and break on some form or fashion.
Swaro and zeiss never will.
Warranties are all the same. Vortex is most highly used warranty for a reason.

Recon if the optic sits in closet 10 or 11 months a year it would be ok. Otherwise it's poo poo caca...

This is amazingly ignorant.

 

[SikaSeeker]

Optics do not "fade"

Vintage optics form oxide layer , or the balsalm can separate. This needs pro cleaning. In something like Vortex the tech is so settled even coating degradation would take a LONG time to happen[30 years] maybe less if getting abused. The worry is wear parts like hinge, focuser, eye cups and particularly rubber armour.

Even swarovski have had a major issue with rubber armour after reformulating for more environmentally friendly version. Probably lost long term customers. And everyone is aware of their great reputation.

Lots depends on type of user, guys in tropics experience issues with every brand as the humidity and temps are brutal on anything.