UPDATED - Astro-Physics 130mm f/8 StarFire EDT Apochromat (1992) – ScopeGuard Case, Dovetail & Rings - FREE CONUS Shipping

For sale is my Astro-Physics 130mm f/8 StarFire EDT Apochromat, believed to have been manufactured in September 1992. Included with the telescope are the original removable dew shield, fitted ScopeGuard hard case, mounting rings, and dovetail.

This is one of Roland Christen's classic EDT triplet apochromats, well known for outstanding visual performance and excellent optical quality. These early Astro-Physics refractors have become increasingly difficult to find and remain highly regarded by both observers and collectors.

Included with the sale is correspondence from Astro-Physics documenting the telescope's known history. According to Astro-Physics, the telescope was manufactured in September 1992 and, under a previous owner (prior to 2002), was returned to Astro-Physics for cleaning, collimation, and installation of a new tube assembly.

The objective was recently cleaned using Zeiss optical cleaning products and presents very well. The coatings appear to be in excellent condition. As expected for a telescope of this age, a bright inspection light will reveal a few small dust specks and minor residual cleaning marks.

Cosmetically, the OTA has a handful of small paint chips and light scratches - consistent with use over the past three decades. Please review the photos carefully, as they accurately represent the telescope's condition. 

The original Astro-Physics focuser is functional but would benefit from a tune-up or adjustment. It exhibits some stiction and is not as smooth as it should be. That said, it remains completely usable for visual observing. I have used it with a 31mm Tele Vue Nagler without issue, and it securely supports the weight of heavy eyepieces. I have chosen not to service or adjust the focuser, preferring to leave it in its original condition for the next owner.

The flocking inside the removable dew shield has begun to separate in a few places. This has not affected the telescope's performance during my ownership, but I want to disclose it. It appears to be a straightforward repair should the next owner wish to address it.

Included

• Astro-Physics 130mm f/8 StarFire EDT optical tube assembly
• Original removable dew shield
• ScopeGuard fitted hard case
• Mounting rings (manufacturer unknown)
• Dovetail plate (manufacturer unknown)
• Copy of the Astro-Physics correspondence documenting the telescope's history

Please review the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. I'm happy to provide additional high-resolution photos, a video of the focuser in operation, or answer any questions.

Price: $4,695 USD OBO

The asking price includes insured shipping within the continental United States and PayPal Goods & Services fees. The telescope will be carefully packed in its fitted ScopeGuard case and shipped fully insured.

Optional

I also have an Astro-Physics MaxBright 2-inch Diagonal (PMDMAX) available. I'll include it with the telescope for an additional $200 (total package $4,895). The diagonal includes its original box. Please note that the original 2-inch-to-1¼-inch adapter is not included.

Thanks for looking!

Shawn