For info Leica APO 77s (make sure it's an APO if you go for this model as they did a non-APO too) are losing value and selling cheaper & cheaper - I know I own one!! They are a great scope but end of a line which Leica make no more accessories for, inc eyepieces. As more eyepieces get damaged beyond repair then they are becoming hard to get and you could be left without an eyepiece for the body. Leica repair cost on APO 77s are going up massively too as they run out of spares (seals, cover glass etc). The Swaro range are still current and you can buy new eyepieces that still fit and repairs are easy as Swarovski are still repairing the equivalent new model to the ATM (the ATS v.2).
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 20th of October 2014 09:57:51 AM
Yeah - very good point Paul- as a fellow Televid owner I'm dreading anything happening to mine as it will no doubt lead to the unplanned purchase of an entirely new scope!! I suppose I just naturally used that scope as an example having paid attention to their availability quite closely on the lookout for bargain eyepieces.
-- Edited by Craig Higson on Monday 20th of October 2014 04:44:52 PM
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No one on their death bed ever said they wished they'd spent more time at work. http://bitsnbirds.blogspot.co.uk
For info Leica APO 77s (make sure it's an APO if you go for this model as they did a non-APO too) are losing value and selling cheaper & cheaper - I know I own one!! They are a great scope but end of a line which Leica make no more accessories for, inc eyepieces. As more eyepieces get damaged beyond repair then they are becoming hard to get and you could be left without an eyepiece for the body. Leica repair cost on APO 77s are going up massively too as they run out of spares (seals, cover glass etc). The Swaro range are still current and you can buy new eyepieces that still fit and repairs are easy as Swarovski are still repairing the equivalent new model to the ATM (the ATS v.2).
The Swarovski barrel focus is very different to the top focus and I used to hate it, but working at Focalpoint and demonstrating scopes every day I know am used to it and have no preference. But yes, as Craig says, it is definitely a consideration and a good point by him
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 20th of October 2014 09:57:51 AM
Alex...you said you're budget was £750, and the lads who have commented seem to agree that for that price the Swarovski in mint cond you've mentioned would be a bargain, BUT I'm looking at your post and you haven't actually said how much it is. I was intrigued that's all, as it might be even cheaper than your budget, in which case would be an even better bargain and you could buy and sell $$$ Just a thought!
Just to add my twopenneth worth. The Swarovski is, as John says, sounding like a bargain. But, speaking from personal experience make sure you get on with the helical focus wheel. I tried a couple of the new Swaro ATX's over the last few days, including the 95mm objective variant, and although the image was stunning, I just could not get on with that focussing arrangement. I much prefer the smaller knob as on the zeiss, leica and kowa models. It's all well and good getting a bargain, but if you don't like it you'll be looking to swap within a few months (again speaking from bitter experience). I've seen plenty Leica Televid 77APO's for e.g. advertised at the money you're looking to spend so I wouldnt feel limited, although as said before you seem to have been offered a good deal.
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No one on their death bed ever said they wished they'd spent more time at work. http://bitsnbirds.blogspot.co.uk
I manage Focalpoint Optics so see lots of stuff coming onto the market, including stuff for a quick sale & have to agree with John that that price is a bargain. Do check carefully for prism alignment and fungal spores, although the latter should not be a problem with a scope of that age. Check the focus wheel along the whole of its travel and the same with the zoom mechanism on the eyepiece. Check the sunshield/rainguard for any flat spots that could indicate a drop. These are some of the checks we make when 2nd hand equipment is offered to us. The golden rule is not to buy without seeing & examining the optics. If this checks out all OK then you have got yourself a bargain
I am looking now to get myself an Angled Spotting Scope, I would be appreciative if any members of the forum could give me some advice on ones to look at. I would much sooner buy a decent used one with the money I have rather than buy a new one. Budget is around the £750 region. I do have the opportunity to purchase a used Swarovski ATM 80mm with a 20/50 eyepiece and case in mint condition but looking hard right now at others. Thanks
I daupt for £750 you will beat the swaro you have been offered in mint condition, I would plump for that at that price without hesitation, and if you don't buy it get the seller to pop it on here for sale ,im sure there will be takers if it is in mint condition. :)
I am looking now to get myself an Angled Spotting Scope, I would be appreciative if any members of the forum could give me some advice on ones to look at. I would much sooner buy a decent used one with the money I have rather than buy a new one. Budget is around the £750 region. I do have the opportunity to purchase a used Swarovski ATM 80mm with a 20/50 eyepiece and case in mint condition but looking hard right now at others. Thanks
