Choosing the Right PROMINAR Spotting Scope for Your Needs


Kowa’s PROMINAR spotting scopes are synonymous with exceptional optical performance, exquisite engineering, user friendly and rugged durability. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, nature enthusiast, stargazer, or digiscoper, the PROMINAR line offers a scope tailored to your specific needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the shared features that set PROMINAR scopes apart and help you understand the differences between models to find your perfect match.

Unique Features shared across the PROMINAR Range:

Every PROMINAR spotting scope is manufactured in our Japanese factory with the Takumi Spirit - a term synonymous with the pinnacle of Japanese manufacturing where the commitment to innovation and dedication to flawless production is paramount. built on a foundation of cutting-edge technology and meticulous craftsmanship. Here are the standout features that unite the series:

Dual Focus Precision

Pure Fluorite Crystal Optics


Engineered to eliminate chromatic aberration, these lenses deliver unparalleled clarity, true-to-life colours, and outstanding resolution. Whether observing intricate plumage details or distant subjects, PROMINAR scopes provide a viewing experience like no other.

Dual Focus Mechanism


Enjoy pinpoint accuracy with quick and fine gearing options, allowing for smooth, precise focus adjustments. This dual focus system ensures you capture every detail with ease.

Magnesium Alloy Body


Lightweight yet incredibly tough, the ergonomic magnesium alloy body is designed for durability and comfort in any environment. Its rugged construction ensures reliability, even in challenging conditions.

Versatile Accessory Compatibility


PROMINAR scopes are part of the Kowa System, offering compatibility with interchangeable eyepieces, digiscoping adapters, extenders, and astro adapters. This flexibility enhances functionality and opens up a world of possibilities.

Exploring the PROMINAR Line-Up

While all PROMINAR scopes share these exceptional features, each model offers unique advantages tailored to specific needs.

Let’s explore the differences:

TSN-99: The Ultimate Performer


Objective Lens Size: 99m
Ideal for: Low-light performance and advanced digiscoping

Benefits: The largest model in the PROMINAR range, the TSN-99 is designed to excel in low-light conditions, making it perfect for early morning or late evening observations. The expansive 99mm objective lens also enhances digiscoping capabilities, capturing stunning detail in photos and videos. It’s the ultimate choice for serious nature observers and photographers seeking unmatched optical power.

TSN-88: The Versatile All-Rounder


Objective Lens Size: 88m
Ideal for: Balanced size, weight, and performance

Benefits: The TSN-88 strikes the perfect balance between portability and optical performance. Its 88mm objective lens provides excellent light-gathering capability, making it versatile for a wide range of observation activities. Lightweight and easy to handle, it’s the ideal choice for those seeking a versatile, do-it-all scope.

TSN-66: The Portable Powerhouse


Objective Lens Size: 66mm
Ideal for: On-the-go adventurers

Benefits: Compact yet powerful, the TSN-66 is a fantastic option for those who prioritize portability without compromising on quality. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry on hikes or trips, making it a favourite for active users who value convenience and performance.

TSN-55: The Ultra-Compact Travel Scope


Objective Lens Size: 55mm
Ideal for: Travel and ultra-lightweight needs

Benefits: The TSN-55 is the smallest and lightest model in the PROMINAR line, perfect for travellers or anyone with limited space in their gear. Despite its compact size, it delivers impressive optical performance, making it a reliable companion for spontaneous adventures and even urban wildlife spotting.

So Which PROMINAR is Right for You?


TSN-99: For those who demand exceptional low-light performance or advanced digiscopers, who want maximum light gathering power and unparalleled clarity.

TSN-88: For versatile users seeking a balance between size, weight, and optical capability.

TSN-66: For outdoor enthusiasts and birders who need portability with power.

TSN-55: For travellers and those who require a compact, lightweight solution.

No matter which model you choose, Kowa’s PROMINAR spotting scopes deliver extraordinary performance, clarity, and reliability. With features like pure fluorite crystal lenses, dual focus mechanisms, and compatibility with the Kowa System accessories, each scope is designed to elevate your viewing experience. Discover the PROMINAR scope that matches your lifestyle and unlock the full potential of nature and beyond!

PROMINAR line-up:

Kowa TSN-99A PROMINAR 30-70x angled Zoom Kit
Kowa TSN-99A PROMINAR 30-70x Zoom Kit Kowa TSN-99A PROMINAR angled spotting scope body TE-11WZ II 30-70x wide zoom eyepiece BRIGHT, WIDE, CRYSTAL CLEARFor those who arrive early and leave late. LARGE 99mm OBJECTIVE LENSA large 99mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens paired with a Kowa XD concave lens produces superior lowlight performance and exquisite detail. This special combination combined with improved optical coatings virtually eliminates chromatic aberration even at high magnification. DUAL FOCUS - PIN POINT CONTROLThe dual focus mechanism is the gateway to controlling the image between your eye and the scope. exquisite engineering is refined to make operation flawless. Quick focus allows for fast action to bring your subject in to detail in just a few smooth revolutions, whilst Fine focus gives pin-point, finger-tip control offering the ultimate in focussing accuracy. TOUGH, LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLEUtilizing a100% magnesium alloy structure, the TSN-99 PROMINAR series spotting scope is one of the most compact and lightweight in its class of large objective spotting scopes making it more portable than many other models. A fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed shell plus Kowa KR coating on the optics makes the scope reassuringly rugged. DESIGNED TO DIGISCOPEThe TSN-99 PROMINAR is 100% compatible with our KOWA SYSTEM accessory range giving you access to Interchangeable eyepieces,accessories and digiscoping adapters for DSLR cameras and smartphones - creating a truly flexible optical tool for many applications.

€4,198.00
Kowa TSN-99S PROMINAR 30-70x straight Zoom Kit
Kowa TSN-99S PROMINAR 30-70x Zoom Kit Kowa TSN-99S PROMINAR straight spotting scope body TE-11WZ II 30-70x wide zoom eyepeice BRIGHT, WIDE, CRYSTAL CLEARFor those who arrive early and leave late. LARGE 99mm OBJECTIVE LENSA large 99mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens paired with a Kowa XD concave lens produces superior lowlight performance and exquisite detail. This special combination combined with improved optical coatings virtually eliminates chromatic aberration even at high magnification. DUAL FOCUS - PIN POINT CONTROLThe dual focus mechanism is the gateway to controlling the image between your eye and the scope. Exquisite engineering is refined to make operation flawless. Quick focus allows for fast action to bring your subject in to detail in just a few smooth revolutions, whilst Fine focus gives pin-point, finger-tip control offering the ultimate in focussing accuracy. TOUGH, LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLEUtilizing a100% magnesium alloy structure, the TSN-99 PROMINAR series spotting scope is one of the most compact and lightweight in its class of large objective spotting scopes making it more portable than many other models. A fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed shell plus Kowa KR coating on the optics makes the scope reassuringly rugged. DESIGNED TO DIGISCOPEThe TSN-99 PROMINAR is 100% compatible with our KOWA SYSTEM accessory range giving you access to Interchangeable eyepieces,accessories and digiscoping adapters for DSLR cameras and smartphones - creating a truly flexible optical tool for many applications.

€4,198.00
Kowa TSN-88A PROMINAR 25-60x angled Zoom Kit
Kowa TSN-88A PROMINAR 25-60x Zoom Kit Kowa TSN-88A PROMINAR angled spotting scope body TE-11WZ II 25-60x wide zoom eyepiece COLOUR, THE WAY NATURE INTENDED.When crafting the new TSN-88 PROMINAR series, Kowa went back to its routes in optical design. Routes which have made it one of the most popular spotting scope manufacturers in the world.To enhance a basic fundamental feature that PROMINAR users enjoy every time they look through their eyepiece - Natural Colour.Kowa has always prided itself on manufacturing optics that deliver a pure rendition of the view in front of the lens. Allowing you, the observer to explore and enjoy every detail of the subject.An image free of negative optical distractions allowing you to immerse yourself into the scene in front of you. PURE FLUORITE CRYSTAL OBJECTIVEThe new TSN-88 PROMINAR features an 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens - the true optical powerhouse at the heart of all PROMINAR flagship optics. This unique lens redefines the standards of colour brilliance and eliminates chromatic aberration for one of the most detailed views of the natural world. HIGHER TRANSMISSIONKowa engineers have improved the unique optical coatings applied not only to the lenses but also the prism in the new TSN-88 PROMINAR spotting scope series. The result is a spotting scope that delivers even higher levels of light wavelength transmission than its predecessor and most important of all, across the entire colour spectrum for the most natural colour of nature. TOUGH, LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLEThe TSN-88 PROMINAR now benefits from a 100% magnesium alloy structure, making it not only tougher but also lighter than its predecessor. A fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed shell plus an upgrade of Kowa KR coating applied to the objective lens which repels dirt, moisture and dust from building on the surface, makes the scope reassuringly rugged. DUAL FOCUS PIN POINT CONTROLThe dual focus mechanism is the gateway to controlling the image between your eye and the scope. Exquisite engineering is refined to make operation flawless. Quick focus allows for fast action to bring your subject in to detail in just a few smooth revolutions, whilst Fine focus gives pin-point, finger-tip control offering the ultimate in focussing accuracy. LOOKS AREN’T EVERYTHING, BUT…The TSN-88 PROMINAR adopts the new ergonomic curves and form created for the recent TSN-99 PROMINAR scope series. Th ere is no mistaking this spotting scope is PROMINAR. Classic green with new and improved elegant styling and a comfortable shape designed to give the user the best experience and operation out in the field. STILL THE KING OF DIGISCOPINGThe TSN-88 PROMINAR retains its crown in the world of digiscoping, offering the photo enthusiast ultra long range telephoto photography options not possible in conventional photography. The improved coatings further enhance digiscoping performance even at the highest levels of magnification producing images that were once only achievable with high end DSLR systems. Kowa has an enviable line-up of dedicated and universal smartphone adapters to allow simple connection of most smartphone models to the TSN-88 PROMINAR, take highly magnified and detailed images and videos with your smartphone of the natural world. DUAL TRIPOD MOUNTA new dual tripod mounting system prevents the scope from slipping or rotating on the tripod shoe ensuring extra stability for long periods of use. A game changer for ultimate convenience and handling out in the field. AIMING SITEThe spotting scope includes a new detachable aiming site that can be fixed on to the accessory collar to assist in locating your subject more rapidly. The lens hood also features a newly designed built in aiming site as a further visual aid.

€3,698.00
Kowa TSN-88S PROMINAR 25-60x straight Zoom Kit
Kowa TSN-88S PROMINAR 25-60x Zoom Kit Kowa TSN-88S PROMINAR straight spotting scope body TE-11WZ II 25-60x wide zoom eyepiece COLOUR, THE WAY NATURE INTENDED.When crafting the new TSN-88 PROMINAR series, Kowa went back to its routes in optical design. Routes which have made it one of the most popular spotting scope manufacturers in the world.To enhance a basic fundamental feature that PROMINAR users enjoy every time they look through their eyepiece - Natural Colour.Kowa has always prided itself on manufacturing optics that deliver a pure rendition of the view in front of the lens. Allowing you, the observer to explore and enjoy every detail of the subject.An image free of negative optical distractions allowing you to immerse yourself into the scene in front of you. PURE FLUORITE CRYSTAL OBJECTIVEThe new TSN-88 PROMINAR features an 88mm pure fluorite crystal objective lens - the true optical powerhouse at the heart of all PROMINAR flagship optics. This unique lens redefines the standards of colour brilliance and eliminates chromatic aberration for one of the most detailed views of the natural world. HIGHER TRANSMISSIONKowa engineers have improved the unique optical coatings applied not only to the lenses but also the prism in the new TSN-88 PROMINAR spotting scope series. The result is a spotting scope that delivers even higher levels of light wavelength transmission than its predecessor and most important of all, across the entire colour spectrum for the most natural colour of nature. TOUGH, LIGHTWEIGHT & PORTABLEThe TSN-88 PROMINAR now benefits from a 100% magnesium alloy structure, making it not only tougher but also lighter than its predecessor. A fully waterproof and nitrogen sealed shell plus an upgrade of Kowa KR coating applied to the objective lens which repels dirt, moisture and dust from building on the surface, makes the scope reassuringly rugged. DUAL FOCUS PIN POINT CONTROLThe dual focus mechanism is the gateway to controlling the image between your eye and the scope. Exquisite engineering is refined to make operation flawless. Quick focus allows for fast action to bring your subject in to detail in just a few smooth revolutions, whilst Fine focus gives pin-point, finger-tip control offering the ultimate in focussing accuracy. LOOKS AREN’T EVERYTHING, BUT…The TSN-88 PROMINAR adopts the new ergonomic curves and form created for the recent TSN-99 PROMINAR scope series. Th ere is no mistaking this spotting scope is PROMINAR. Classic green with new and improved elegant styling and a comfortable shape designed to give the user the best experience and operation out in the field. STILL THE KING OF DIGISCOPINGThe TSN-88 PROMINAR retains its crown in the world of digiscoping, offering the photo enthusiast ultra long range telephoto photography options not possible in conventional photography. The improved coatings further enhance digiscoping performance even at the highest levels of magnification producing images that were once only achievable with high end DSLR systems. Kowa has an enviable line-up of dedicated and universal smartphone adapters to allow simple connection of most smartphone models to the TSN-88 PROMINAR, take highly magnified and detailed images and videos with your smartphone of the natural world. DUAL TRIPOD MOUNTA new dual tripod mounting system prevents the scope from slipping or rotating on the tripod shoe ensuring extra stability for long periods of use. A game changer for ultimate convenience and handling out in the field. AIMING SITEThe spotting scope includes a new detachable aiming site that can be fixed on to the accessory collar to assist in locating your subject more rapidly. The lens hood also features a newly designed built in aiming site as a further visual aid.

€3,698.00
Kowa TSN-66A PROMINAR 25-60x angled Zoom Kit
TSN-66 PROMINAR66mm PURE FLUORITE CRYSTAL SPOTTING SCOPEThe TSN-66 PROMINAR is the newest member of Kowa’s PROMINAR family of spotting scopes, boasting exceptional pure fluorite crystal optics that have earned Kowa global acclaim.With a compact and lightweight body and 66mm objective lens, the TSN-66 PROMINAR is the ideal tool for those who want to travel light, without compromising on image quality when they arrive at their favourite location.Expanding the PROMINAR pure fluorite crystal family.Proudly made in Japan, this spotting scope joins a line-up of world-renowned precision optics featuring unique optical coatings and pure fluorite crystal technology. The PROMINAR range has set the standard for optical quality and performance, delivering outstanding image clarity and resolution. The TSN-66 PROMINAR upholds this tradition, and now offers nature enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the precision and clarity of a PROMINAR spotting scope in a more compact and lightweight form.Experience the truth and beauty of natural colour.Kowa has always been dedicated to delivering optical products that offer a true-to-life representation of the natural world. For nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, Kowa optics provide an unrivalled viewing experience. With Kowa’s commitment to the highest quality standards and utilising pure fluorite crystal lenses, the products deliver a pure rendition of the view in front of the lens, allowing users to explore and enjoy every detail of the subject.Lightweight yet tough: Portable perfection.Strong, light and built to last. The 100% magnesium alloy body not only provides robustness but also ensures a lightweight design. With a fully sealed outer body, this spotting scope is 100% waterproof and nitrogen-filled, making it impervious to the elements. Experience the perfect balance of strength and weight with the TSN-66 PROMINAR, built to last a lifetime. The scope is offered in both Angled (A) and Straight (S) configurations.Precision Dual FocusWith meticulous attention to detail, this scope delivers exceptional performance and intuitive operation. Our flagship spotting scopes are defined by their dual focus system, and the TSN-66 PROMINAR is no exception. This highly engineered feature provides ultimate control, ensuring flawless and precise operation. With quick focus, you can bring your subject into detail in just a few smooth revolutions. Meanwhile, fine focus provides pin-point fingertip control, delivering the ultimate in focusing accuracy. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, the TSN-66 PROMINAR’s dual focus system offers flawless operation out in the field.Kowa System compatibleCross compatibility is a fundamental feature of all our PROMINAR spotting scopes, including the TSN-66 PROMINAR. With the 100% compatible accessory collar and bayonet mount, you have access to a wide range of interchangeable eyepieces and accessories, making this scope a truly flexible and compact optical tool that can be used for many applications.The most compact and effective digiscoping option out there!The TSN-66 PROMINAR series scopes are highly effective digiscoping tools due to their pure fluorite crystal lens, which provides unparalleled image clarity and brightness. Combine this outstanding optical performance with their lightweight and compact bodies and experience the ultimate travel companion for wildlife photographers on the go.NOW, THERE REALLY IS A BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. Why compromise?Travel light and experience nature’s true detail with the Kowa TSN-66 PROMINAR.

€2,698.00
Kowa TSN-66S PROMINAR 25-60x Straight Zoom Kit
TSN-66 PROMINAR66mm PURE FLUORITE CRYSTAL SPOTTING SCOPE zoom kitThe TSN-66 PROMINAR is the newest member of Kowa’s PROMINAR family of spotting scopes, boasting exceptional pure fluorite crystal optics that have earned Kowa global acclaim.With a compact and lightweight body and 66mm objective lens, the TSN-66 PROMINAR is the ideal tool for those who want to travel light, without compromising on image quality when they arrive at their favourite location.Expanding the PROMINAR pure fluorite crystal family.Proudly made in Japan, this spotting scope joins a line-up of world-renowned precision optics featuring unique optical coatings and pure fluorite crystal technology. The PROMINAR range has set the standard for optical quality and performance, delivering outstanding image clarity and resolution. The TSN-66 PROMINAR upholds this tradition, and now offers nature enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the precision and clarity of a PROMINAR spotting scope in a more compact and lightweight form.Experience the truth and beauty of natural colour.Kowa has always been dedicated to delivering optical products that offer a true-to-life representation of the natural world. For nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, Kowa optics provide an unrivalled viewing experience. With Kowa’s commitment to the highest quality standards and utilising pure fluorite crystal lenses, the products deliver a pure rendition of the view in front of the lens, allowing users to explore and enjoy every detail of the subject.Lightweight yet tough: Portable perfection.Strong, light and built to last. The 100% magnesium alloy body not only provides robustness but also ensures a lightweight design. With a fully sealed outer body, this spotting scope is 100% waterproof and nitrogen-filled, making it impervious to the elements. Experience the perfect balance of strength and weight with the TSN-66 PROMINAR, built to last a lifetime. The scope is offered in both Angled (A) and Straight (S) configurations.Precision Dual FocusWith meticulous attention to detail, this scope delivers exceptional performance and intuitive operation. Our flagship spotting scopes are defined by their dual focus system, and the TSN-66 PROMINAR is no exception. This highly engineered feature provides ultimate control, ensuring flawless and precise operation. With quick focus, you can bring your subject into detail in just a few smooth revolutions. Meanwhile, fine focus provides pin-point fingertip control, delivering the ultimate in focusing accuracy. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, the TSN-66 PROMINAR’s dual focus system offers flawless operation out in the field.Kowa System compatibleCross compatibility is a fundamental feature of all our PROMINAR spotting scopes, including the TSN-66 PROMINAR. With the 100% compatible accessory collar and bayonet mount, you have access to a wide range of interchangeable eyepieces and accessories, making this scope a truly flexible and compact optical tool that can be used for many applications.The most compact and effective digiscoping option out there!The TSN-66 PROMINAR series scopes are highly effective digiscoping tools due to their pure fluorite crystal lens, which provides unparalleled image clarity and brightness. Combine this outstanding optical performance with their lightweight and compact bodies and experience the ultimate travel companion for wildlife photographers on the go.NOW, THERE REALLY IS A BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. Why compromise?Travel light and experience nature’s true detail with the Kowa TSN-66 PROMINAR.

€2,698.00
Kowa TSN-55A PROMINAR Angled Spotting Scope
TSN-55A 17-40x wide zoom angled spotting scopeDiscover a truly distinctive compact spotting scope with a 55mm fluorite crystal objective lens, designed to make your adventures genuinely unforgettable and immersive. At the core of the TSN-55A PROMINAR series spotting scope is a fluorite crystal objective lens. This mineral boasts extremely low dispersion, a feature that surpasses conventional optical glass. This unique quality allows Kowa to eliminate colour blur, significantly enhancing resolution and contrast. The inclusion of fluorite crystal is a hallmark of Kowa spotting scopes, reflecting decades of Kowa's optical innovation. With a length of just 255mm and a weight of only 965g, the TSN-55A PROMINAR is exceptionally compact, making it the ideal travel companion. The versatile 17-40x wide zoom eyepiece with ED lenses is perfectly matched to enhance the optical performance of the pure fluorite crystal objective lens. The TSN-55A PROMINAR embodies a philosophy, a lifestyle. An optic that enriches every experience. It's one of a kind. This compact spotting scope opens up new possibilities. No matter where your journey leads, the Kowa TSN-55A is the perfect travel partner. Its lightweight yet robust, fully waterproof, and nitrogen-filled chassis guarantees performance in the harshest conditions.

€2,298.00
Kowa TSN-55S PROMINAR Straight Spotting Scope
TSN-55S 17-40x wide zoom straight spotting scopeDiscover a truly distinctive compact spotting scope with a 55mm fluorite crystal objective lens, designed to make your adventures genuinely unforgettable and immersive.At the core of the TSN-55S PROMINAR series spotting scope is a fluorite crystal objective lens. This mineral boasts extremely low dispersion, a feature that surpasses conventional optical glass. This unique quality allows Kowa to eliminate colour blur, significantly enhancing resolution and contrast. The inclusion of fluorite crystal is a hallmark of Kowa spotting scopes, reflecting decades of Kowa's optical innovation. With a length of just 275mm and a weight of only 960g, the TSN-55S PROMINAR is exceptionally compact, making it the ideal travel companion.The versatile 17-40x wide zoom eyepiece with ED lenses is perfectly matched to enhance the optical performance of the pure fluorite crystal objective lens.The TSN-55S PROMINAR embodies a philosophy, a lifestyle. An optic that enriches every experience. It's one of a kind. This compact spotting scope opens up new possibilities. No matter where your journey leads, the Kowa TSN-55S is the perfect travel partner. Its lightweight yet robust, fully waterproof, and nitrogen-filled chassis guarantees performance in the harshest conditions.

€2,298.00