O'Meara's Messier book

[DougAdams]

Originally Posted by matt

OK. Now I know why I couldn't find it.

It's a different edition to the one for sale at Bintel. Different number of pages. Different title. While the Caldwell book by the same author has the same title on both websites.

Check it out Steve. Probably a different edition? Similar contents, but not the same books.

hard to tell on the DA Direct site without a pic

Certainly the same book as the contents match, but perhaps an updated edition? You're right - we need a picture of it.

[matt]

Booktopia does the same edition as Bintel's for $74

[astro_south (Andrew)]

Matt

I currently have this very book winging its way to me from Amazons. The total cost was around $65Aus. I see O'Meara is bringing out another book in this series entitled "Hidden treasures" - can't wait for this one - I think I can make out NGC1365 on the cover!

[matt]

G'day Andrew

Yeah, I've noticed that title during my searches.

No doubt another beauty to add to the shopping list.

[matt]

and because I seldom do things in half measures...

I've just visited Amazon.com myself and placed an order not only for The Messier Objects but the Caldwell book also

I couldn't resist. $58 US plus postage and handling for both.

Me got some purdy readin' books headin' mah way

[janoskiss (Steve H)]

For the modest savings I personally don't think that amazon is worth the risk and the wait. I only buy DVDs through them that I can't get here and I've encountered quite a few dodgy dealers (with high ratings).

[matt]

We'll see, Steve. We'll see

Savings are savings, regardless of how modest.

How'd your DVD purchases turn out?

[janoskiss (Steve H)]

All I'm saying it's a bit of a gamble. If it pays off you save a few bucks, if it does not you lose a few. Chances are all will work out okay for a one-off purchase, but I would not make a habit of it, because on average there is little or no savings to be made.

The typical story goes like this. You order an item ready to ship. Your credit card is charged. Several weeks pass along with the amazon's predicted latest date of delivery. You contact seller. They say sorry they don't have it in stock, it will be another 4-6 weeks (or they don't know how long). You ask for a refund, and hopefully, eventually you get it. I always got a refund in the end but the whole affair costs time and significant amount of money in bank fees, currency exchange charges, interest on credit card.

[Vermin (Tom)]

I was wondering what risk you were talking about. I've never had a problem buying new items from Amazon, and their shipping costs are the lowest around. You must mean buying second hand through Amazon?

I've been burnt once by buying that way but it is more than offset by the savings I've made.

I once thought I'd support my local bookshop and gave them a list of books I wanted. Big mistake, I paid heaps more and was waiting for about 6 months for some items that were in stock online. grrrr.

[matt]

@ janoskiss

Ok Mr Experienced... here's how this plays out

First of all, the items were in stock. Brand new.

Second, I've bought plenty of stuff through Amazon before and it's all been sweet. Don't assume someone's not familiar with the pitfalls of something like Amazon which has been around for ages. That sounds pretty naff, mate.

Third, if I'd bought from a domestic vendor such as Bintel I'd be up for around $170 instead of say $130. About a 25% saving, Steve, which ain't bad.

[astro_south (Andrew)]

I have brought a number of items through Amazon.com and had no problems at all. Admittedly, the goods have been brand new and the website had indicated 'in-stock'. I have never even considered buying secondhand through them, but obviously people do and have success.

I would prefer to spend the money locally, but its my coin and if the difference is worth the inconvienience (ie I don't need the item tomorrow) I would rather keep it in my pocket

[janoskiss (Steve H)]

I only ever ordered new stuff that is "in-stock" according to dealer's listing. Based on all your comments, I guess my results must be skewed because I only used amazon to buy hard to find movies and CDs for which demand would be low. I bought 9 or 10 items through amazon, and had experiences similar to what I described above in 3 other instances.

[matt]

No worries, Steve. It is interesting to read of other people's experiences in Cyber Shoppingland.

I'll definitely keep you posted as to how my latest shopping spree turns out, good or bad.

Fingers crossed I'll end up with two beautiful books at a very nice price, delivered fairly promptly.

Thanks everyone for all your replies.

[dhumpie]

Amazon.com is as good as they come. And you get to save a bit too. I have bought heaps from them and never had problems. In fact I got my Caldwell Object book through them for the same price as what astro_south paid for his Messier Objects book.

Darren

[matt]

That's right, darren

[matt]

Well, for the curious and particularly Steve, my 2 books arrived today.

They were beautifully packaged and delivered and they are superb.

And the best part? I now have both Deep-Sky Companions (Caldwell and Messier Objects) and for the very attractive price of only $100 AUS. So I've saved about $70. So pretty much 2 for the price of 1.

Thank-you Amazon

[DougAdams]

Good stuff - hope you enjoy them. I am delighted that he has another coming out later in the year - can't wait!

[dhumpie]

Good stuff Matt. The Messier Object book alone from local dealers would set you back by about $89AUD so you saved a bundle! Now you can use the balance to get some astro accessories

Darren

p/s: I am thinking about purchasing Sue French's Celestial Sampler now