RARE- 7 inch f/15 Achromat with Royce objective!

Here is a rare opportunity to acquire a classic long-focus refractor. The objective is a 7-inch f/15 air-spaced doublet made by R. F. Royce. It is set into a custom made OTA built by Parallax. It has a beautiful 2” Feather-Touch focuser, bracket for small finder, and sliding counterweight. Also included are rings and D-style dovetail plate.

Condition is very good with some very minor scuffs and chips to the paint (please see pictures). I had thought about giving it an overhaul, but it just doesn’t need it yet. The objective is very nice, has some minor dew spots from use. I’m sure they would clean off if so desired, but I have not touched the objective. This telescope has been used but it is in very good, fully-functional condition.

The tube is long and weighs about 40 lbs, but it’s relatively easy to handle and I have no problems mounting it on my CGX-L without assistance. For as large of a refractor as this is, it’s not a difficult assembly. For reference, my CGX-L handles the scope pretty well, though the standard tripod legs at max extension do leave the eyepiece close to ground level when viewing high in the sky. For those instances, I keep a single step stool nearby to sit low and enjoy the views.

Views through it are excellent. It is an Achromat, and even at f/15 there is some minor residual color, but for visual observing this is not objectionable, IMO. If I recall, Royce used a different glass in making this objective than the typical Crown-Flint because it resulted in better color correction. I’ve used this telescope primarily for visual observation and for Solar imaging in both white light and Hydrogen-alpha and had excellent results.

The scope cools down fast and delivers sharp, high-magnification views, and is an overall joy to use. I am selling to thin the stable and make room for some other activities.

Price is for the OTA with rings and dovetail bar only.

Due to the length of this telescope, it is a pick-up only item.

Price: $3000, located in St. Mary's Country, MD, USA.