The covers for the latitude-axis gently snap into place...
The slight spacing between the magnets and the bolt ensure that the covers are able to fully seat.
The RA-axis is aimed at Polaris, more or less, and ready to go with the 70mm f/12.9 achromat attached...
The legs of the tripod are fully retracted, save the slight extensions required to level the mount, and per its built-in bubble-level. I expect I'll be keeping the legs retracted mostly, if not always. The lightest, four-pound counter-weight is attached, and the telescope balanced, more or less.
The revolutions amaze and astound. I'll be wanting slow-motion knobs instead.
No, you're not seeing things. I have a new observing-chair. It's much nicer than the old one...
Although, I'll not be retiring it, just yet.
I'm going to need a two(to three?)-pound counter-weight. I can get an iOptron 2.2-pound, and a 13/16"(20.7mm) drill-bit to open it up. That would still be somewhat less than the Vixen two-pounder, but only somewhat. The Vixen is nigh insanely priced; two pounds of silver, it seems.
"
Those interested in Vixen precision optical products can expect to see them available on Explore Scientific's website as soon as October of this year." - GlobeNewswire
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjaonLGgSN0