New Big Glass from APM

[Profiler]

I noticed this was listed as forthcoming in December 2012 but apparently it is now available - APM have apparently made a 152mm f8 APO doublet for USD$4200 which also comes with a hardcase, rings and a mounting bracket

http://www.optcorp.com/apm-152-1200-ed-apo-doublet-ota.html

I would be curious to know what others might think of this evidently new design

[Tinderboxsky]

I have been following APM's quite lengthy development of this scope via the detailed notes they have had for some time on their website. It has been a while coming but it is now a reality.

I have been interested from a visual observing perspective. In my view a well corrected doublet is strikes the right balance between all the competing design variables and of course price, for visual observing. The detailed specs suggest a highly corrected image for a doublet. Combine this with the other advantages of a doublet, particularly less weight, suggests a value for money visual instrument.

Perhaps the nearest doublet competition would be the venerable Tak FS 152 which sets the benchmark for large doublets. These seem to fetch $7-8K secondhand. So, if this new APM offering comes close to the Tak's performance I would be very happy at almost half the price.

I will read future reviews and comparisons with interest. Shall try very hard to keep the wallet under lock and key in the meantime.

Steve.

[anj026]

This new 152 doublet is very interesting and a great new option for 6" refractors. I would expect it to be good value for a visual instrument.

I don't think it would quite match the Takahashi FS152. For that you will have to pay a bit extra for the APM LZOS doublet designed by Massimo Riccardi.

http://www.apm-telescopes.de/en/Telescopes-/Refracting-Telescopes-OTA/Apochromates/APM-LZOS-Telescope-Refractor-152-mm-f/1200-mm-2.5-ZTA1.html