Wanted: Dob 6 Saxon/Skywatcher?

[grimsay (Iain)]

Typical newbie question, sorry guys... are the following the same scope just branded differently?

• http://www.sirius-optics.com.au/tele...ional-dob.html
• http://www.ozscopes.com.au/dobsonian...xon-6inch.html
• http://www.astronomyalive.com.au/tel...telescope.html

They look very similar in construction and specs.

Also I don't suppose anyone is or knows someone looking to sell a 6"/8" Dob? Frustratingly was just out bidded on an 8" on eBay this eve, argh, so disappointed!

Thanks, Iain

[doppler (Rick)]

Hi Iain, Most of these scopes do come from the same manufacturer.

Keep a eye on gumtree, a lot of cr_p there, but I've picked up a couple of good bargain priced scopes there in the last year. (these were local pickups so use caution)

http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-miscella...SearchBox=true

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Saxon is the "less expensive" brand manufactured by Synta who also do Skywatcher and Celestron.

Just be cautious with buying 2nd hand scopes on ebay or gumtree, lots of scopes get purchased and left in sheds and cupboards and then sold by people who wouldn't know what issues may arise.

Cheers

Malcolm

[Malcolm]

I think the skywatcher sale might still be on at http://www.andrewscom.com.au/

[grimsay (Iain)]

Sounds like Sky-Watcher is the way to go. Andrews sale is still on. Thanks guys.

[grimsay (Iain)]

What kind of issues should I look out for / ask about if buying for eBay/gumtree?

Thanks, Iain

Originally Posted by barx1963

... Just be cautious with buying 2nd hand scopes on ebay or gumtree, lots of scopes get purchased and left in sheds and cupboards and then sold by people who wouldn't know what issues may arise

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Iain
With dobs the obvious ones are:
1) Cleanliness and condition of mirrors (both primary and secondary
2) Condition of the mount, often these are made of chipboard so easily affected by moisture. The base board particularly can be affected as it is out of sight and on the ground)
3) Condition of the focuser, if it is gummed up with dirt it may not be useable
4) Finderscope ie is it still there and is it in good condition.
5) Collimation adjustment screws on both mirrors. If rust has got in, they may not be useable

They are the obvious ones. Best way to avoid is be patient until one comes up that you can inspect.

Malcolm

[Suzy]

That's super advice Malcom! I think I might like to share these tips on our facebook page actually.... . May I?

Iain, all the best with your scope purchase, exciting times with observing ahead for you .
If possible go the 8" as it'll last you longer without feeling you need to upgrade soon. The 6" is good, I had one, but I upgraded to the 10" within 6 months. Didn't make sense to upgrade to 8" as the jump wouldn't have been that noticeable.

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

Suzy
Go right ahead. Only based on what I have seen with some old scope not very well cared for!!
Not to say that sellers would be dishonest, but sometimes things are being sold by people who simply have no knowledge.

Cheers

Malcolm

[Suzy]

Thanks Malcolm

[grimsay (Iain)]

Thanks for your guidance guys.

I'll take your advice Suzy and aim for an 8". From what I've read any difference between Saxon/Skywatcher will be negligible with my experience.

Thanks for the Gumtree tip Malcolm, I'm looking at a couple there and getting the extra info from the sellers but might go new just to be safe.

Thanks again.

[doug mc]

Have a look at Andrews, they had a dob going cheap in there specials shop display.