Re: How long for AP160?

rat ~( );> wrote:
> That's pretty amusing, Vlad, considering the dearth of AP scopes for
> sale.

Hardly. Considering the low volume sold, they do a surprisingly good
resale.

>I got my Traveler in 1999, and I still have it. I've actually
> sold all of my other scopes with exception of a 10" Newt.

Not surprising. You've already stated you consider it to be an
"investment". The AP name alone assures that it will appreciate in
value if well taken care of. The number one problem with "investments"
however, is determining when to sell. If you never plan on selling it,
then be honest. It's not an investment.

For many amateurs an AP is as much a status symbol as a telescope - for
some, more.

You seem to be getting defensive, and I guess I can't blame you - but
that's not my intent. I suppose it would have been better to simply
congragulate you on your new arrival, but Brand Mystique and Brand
Loyalty in this thread is running so thick, it's amazing. I'm sure
it's an excellent telescope (and one I'd be very happy with myself),
but my point is brand loyalty and reputation can be a funny thing. AP
scopes simply aren't magical devices that perform like other scopes
many times their size.

They are excellent telescopes. No more, no less. But, bluntly put,
there are lots of excellent telescopes out there. AP does not have a
lock.

It's both amusing and sad that even seasoned amateurs apparently need
to have that pointed out, although I suppose it's natural to be
infected with the "I bought it, and I had to wait a long time, and I
had to pay a bunch, so it's got to be the best syndrome" -especially
when the item is new. Just take a look at all the glowing "reviews"
that can be found of any new telescope across the internet.

It's distressing that AP scopes are in fact so rare, expensive and
difficult to get a hold of. The average amateur will probably never
see one, and if they read these threads may very well attach near
magical properties to what is in fact, just a good telescope. It's
like hyping a movie.

The plain fact of the matter is that there are lots of good options
available to the amateur. You simply do not need to wait 6 years for
good views. An amateur does not need to wait for a Zambutto, an AP or
<insert whatever brand here> to enjoy the night sky.

That being said, enjoy your AP rat. It's a wonderful scope.

.

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