Ordering Skywatcher EQ8-R tripod and head from overseas?

[bluesilver]

Hi, first sorry about the confusing topic heading there, wasn't too sure ho to word it correctly.

But i am looking at getting a Skywatcher EQ8-R, don't think i need to go as far as the RH model.

But was just interested to know if anyone has actually ordered a large item like tis from overseas, like from FLO ( First light optics )
Only reason i am asking is that the price i can get it delivered to my door is pretty close to $1,500 cheaper than anywhere in Australia.
I can get the EQ8_r and the Tripod to my door for $6876 compared to about $8000 here in Australia.

Just interested to know if it is a worth while option to be looking at or interested to know if anyone has order large costly items like this from FLO and how they went with customs coming in.
Any information would be appreciated.
Thanks.
Peter.

[AstroJunk]

You might like to test the wanted adds for an EQ8 Tripod. Originally there was no option but to buy one with the scope, so there are plenty in Australia sitting around doing nothing after the scopes were pier mounted. I've got one for eg, but its a little bit distant.

[rustigsmed]

just be careful of any import duties/gst.

[toc]

I would never buy a mount from overseas - even if it is substantially cheaper.

The cost of sending the item back for any sort of repairs would negate the savings. I am biased though - every single new mount I've purchased has had issues that required the vendor to service it. :)

[Camelopardalis]

Just be aware that the EQ8 head, and the box it comes in, large and heavy.

I’d be similarly reluctant to buy one from overseas for warranty issues…

[Startrek]

I’ve been looking at a EQ8-R pro for next year but looking at the EQ8 users group over the past 6 months , these mounts have had a load of various issues which you wouldn’t expect for a $8K + observatory grade mount.
I have 2 x EQ6-R pro mounts purchased 1 year apart and not one issue at all over the past 3 years ( $2,200 mount )
I’m not convinced Synta spent enough time thoroughly testing the design, operation and performance of these mounts to a high level that you would expect from an “observatory grade mount”