Perfection for sale

[LewisM]

This is VERY tough for me, but I am very happy with my new-to-me Astro-Physics 120mm, so I am going to offer up my Takahashi FS-102 fluorite doublet

Upfront, I am telling you this is a FULLY REFURBISHED tube - the original paintwork was in horrendous condition, so I had to refinish it. I also remade the dewshield decal (scaled up a LITTLE from original).

For sale will be the FS-102 (1999 manufacture), complete with:
1. 8x50 illuminated Tak finder (ILLUMINATOR IS NOT INCLUDED - various aftermarket ones fit)
2. Vixen rings (better than the clamshell, which I DO NOT have)
3. "manhole" objective cover

The scope has the standard focuser (sorry, I am keeping the MEF unit and the CAA for adaptation to the A-P). It also will come with my handle I made (Tas Oak handle with stainless, copper and brass fittings). No dovetail is included. The finder quick release is also NOT for sale.

The FS series are FRONT fluorite, fully multi-coated (no, they do NOT degrade like some morons think). Contrast and sharpness in this is phenominal, and there is NO visible CA whatsoever when in focus - the FS-102's (and FC-100's) are very well renowned to be the best doublets ever made (my A-P shows a tiny bit of CA - the FS does NOT)

Price will be $1800 - postage and packaging additional (because I am NOT skimping on wrapping this one well!)

Someone please buy this before I change my mind and revoke it....

[leon]

Lewis, you certainly have done an excellent job with the refurbishment of this unit, ;) it looks as if it came of the assembly line, nice job..:thumbsup:

Leon :thumbsup:

[LewisM]

Thanks Leon.

This really pains me to offer it for sale, but I just cannot justifiably find a niche role for the FS :( The A-P covers ALL bases impeccably.

[atalas]

Yes!and for those that say It isn't...I say It is!
wish I could take It of your hand Lewis....a beautiful scope.

[Octane]

Would you use this for imaging, or is it more of a visual beast?

H

[LewisM]

Both H.

I WAS contemplating keeping the reducer/flattener but if someone wants the reducer/flattener, add $400 (new is a LOT more) and that includes yhe back spacers

[LewisM]

FS-102 is SOLD, just leaving this up until a decision is made by myself re selling the focal reducer and some other bits.

[ausastronomer]

Louie,

You had a really good one of those and sold it years ago. In fact your Tak FS102 was the first 4" telescope I was able to split Antares with.

Lewis,

A really nice paint job and decals. I hope the scope is going to a good home.

Cheers,
John B

[atalas]

Yep sure did John...the byer will be pleased with It I'm sure.

[LewisM]

John going to a great new home not too far from me.