Time to sell my first scope.....and what a joy it has been.
The Mewlon 180C has amazed me and some very experienced observers, with contrast and detail nearing that of a good refractor on a good night.
If you are interested, Roger Vines
http://www.scopeviews.co.uk/ provides a good review that reflects (sorry for the pun) my experience. I agree with him that the M180C is a bit of a Takahashi bargain. I have enjoyed the Dall-Kirkham design, which uses an open OTA design, and IMO this has some ease of use benefits over a schmidt-cass (cools quicker and I have never been "dewed out"), with great on-axis optics.
I have attached photos, including 2 that show the most minor damage to the finish (near the focuser knob and on lower rear of the OTA). The scope to the best of my knowledge was purchased from AEC in 2017, and I acquired it mid 2020.
The scope holds collimation very well, and despite frequent trips on country roads, I have only needed to adjust the collimation once. The scope delivered to me had the WO diagonal but the original Tak sleeve, 32.5mm EP adapter and cap were missing. I have included a 1 1/4" adapter. I have also added a soft telescope carry case, which has proved ideal for carrying the scope strapped into a car seat.
Included:
- OTA with built-in 6x30 finder scope
- William optics 2" diagonal
- 1.25" EP adapter
- Losmandy dovetail (significantly better than the in-build one)
- Large protective hard case
- C9.25 soft case
FYI, for those who are wondering why, given my clear affection for this scope: I have in the past couple of months purchased two very nice scopes, which are better suited to my changing needs as I creep ever so closer to retirement (more time to image and travel).
I think $2250 plus P&P is reasonable for this package.
