Bogen Manfrotto 3130 QR Micro Fluid Head complete and buttery smooth

This here is a late 1997 Bogen Manfrotto model 3130 QR Micro Fluid Head assembly. This is absolutely complete to code and will come with the original, cast aluminum 3157 quick release adapter plate; this being the feature of the mount "QR". For those not versed with Bogens, “Micro” is in reference to the payload capacity, which is still quite high versus any department store-style panhead system.

Photo #9 is a visual illustration on HOW a Bogen head attaches to a Bogen tripod. Photos #10-#12 illustrate the differences between the #128 and the #128RC.

Bogen can be confusing to follow as they rename their model numbers as they progress, but their stamped codes follow extremely closely and allow collectors to notice their relevance to each other. The Model 3130 is an excellent example of this practice by the brand.

There are (2) generations of the 3130: 

Model Name       Stamp Code    Payload                              Head Mounting Bolt     Era

3126                    #128                 8 pounds 13 ounces         M10-1.5                          Pre-1996

3130                    #128RC            8 pounds 13 ounces         #1/4-20                          1997-to date

And for extra credit, the complete weight of the heads:

3126:  1 pound 14.4 ounces

3130:  1 pound 15.2 ounces

In physical stature, aluminum construct, animations, and payload, these mounts are one in the same. The difference between them is the quick release saddle. The #128 features a fixed, cork-padded platform with an elongated cut for the #1/4-20 underside hand bolt. Though the convenience of quick releasing your camera, binoculars, or small telescope is forfeit, the contact area on the top plate is double the surface area, and the elongated cut for the mounting bolt means you can shift the payload forward or aft; something the #128RC cannot perform.

The #128RC has the built-in quick release piston assembly and comes with the model 3157 cast aluminum adapter plate. The nifty feature here is your ability to immediately detach your camera, binoculars, or telescope from the panhead assembly. And it is this feature that separates the 3130 from its ancestor, the 3126. The sacrifice is that you have a smaller surface contact for your telescope and you cannot adjust for imbalances of the optical tube because the elongated cut for the mounting bolt does not exist in the design.

The only other immediate difference is in the handle. The #128 will have a wider, thicker rubber contact. The #128RC will have a narrower, knurled-textured grip. 

Both these fluid mounts fasten to their Bogen tripods in the exact same manner; a single stud located on the adjustable, central shaft. What is important to know is that the older Bogens used a larger bolt than the more recent ones. The #1/4-20 format on the #128RC means it can adapt to many other brands aside from Bogen Manfrotto. However, it will not be able to mount on the vintage Bogen tripods UNLESS you change-out the mounting plate (the central, aluminum disc that holds the stud).

The good thing here is that Bogen products are ALL about bolt-on and bolt-off accessibility. So, in most cases, you can pick-and-mix your hardware on cross-era Bogen assemblies. Awesome!

Operation of the #128RC is exceptionally approachable and simple. To mount your camera/telescope/binocular adapter mount, just purchase the quick release 3157 pate to the underside of your optical assembly, then drop it into the quick release saddle. Bogen's QR system uses a brass nipple that triggers the spring attached to the quick release lock clamp. The moment any significant pressure is applied to this brass nipple, the trigger will release and the plate will be immediately secured in the saddle. That's it!
To release your instrument from the QR saddle, use your thumb and pull the QR lock clamp to your right until you see the plate slightly ejected (it will be tilted upwards at aft). Simply lift your system off the fluid head and you’re done.

For horizontal animations, locate the 4-star bolt directly underneath the top head: counterclockwise loosens, clockwise tightens.

For altitude animations, locate the 4-star bolt on your left: counterclockwise loosens, clockwise tightens.

To adjust the angle of the panhead hand control, locate the 4-star bolt underneath the top plate on your right:  clockwise loosens, counterclockwise tightens. This is particularly nifty as the "elbow" bend in the shaft will allow you to position around your telescope or camera, or make it at an easier reach when in a chair or standing above.

The #128RC is perfect for your 10x70 to 20x80 binoculars, Canon EOS systems, the older Olympus OM-1 with the 300mm mak lens, and it will handle ANY Celestron C90 and C5 of any era, the Meade 97 Series balance well on it, and yes, it will hold the Meade 107D and 2045S just right for birding and lunar sweeps.
Other scopes, like the Orion UltraScan 80 and Apex 90 and 102, the Celestron SS-80 and Rich Field Scope 80, Tele Vue Ranger, and your Meade ETX-90 and 105 in spotter mode are perfect on it. The Tele Vue Pronto will reach its threshold (thanks to all that milled aluminum and brass and your 35mm Panoptic!).

Physical condition is perfect. No stripped threads and no wobbly bolts. Clamps loosen and tighten with precision on command. The quick release system is flawless and holds your 3157 plate like an alligator death grip. The panhead arm is true in form with no "extra bends". Cosmetics are very excellent with no damages or fading to report. 
All you need now is a matching Bogen or other-applicable tripod.

All nations welcome to bid.