Top of the Shops?

[tinny]

Hi everybody

I just wanted to run this thread as an opinion poll....

After seeing seemingly alarming number of horror stories about suppliers of astronomical equipment (long waiting times, ordered items not turning up etc)I wondered what the general opinion on the state of the industry was...As a newbie I understand some of the difficulties i.e. procuring items from abroard/customs, but are we really to believe that they are so different from any other major retailer!?

Just wondered................!?

[Starbabe]

Nope, no major difference between them except in price usually (especially shipping costs - if you add up all the costs you spent in shipping and then wonder what that would have bought, it becomes a deciding factor in where to buy )

Given the fact that distance selling is covered under EU directives, never had problems.

Use a credit card for large purchases (not debit).

Distance selling requires orders to be fullfilled by a set period (or longer if both parties agree) and lots of communication and other rights.

I feel safe, why don't you? It all boils down to knowing your rights and how to be protected.

[jimmyjamjoejoe]

Where is your Orion coming from tinny?

[JamesM]

Although we would all like to believe that our passion for astronomy is the most obvious choice of interest, the truth is that even though it has become very popular in recent times through television programmes and the developments in imaging, as a retail sector it remains a niche market.

Price can be linked to economies of scale which are clearly being achieved amongst some of the main manufacturers as evidenced by the affordability in recent times of quality scopes aimed at the beginner and intermediate levels. However, there is still a lot of kit out that is highly specialised, not easily affordable and where supply can sometimes result in waiting lists. Main stream manufacturers are sensitive to demand as witnessed by Skywatcher's latest large Apo refractors representing an aspiration to produce a more elite product aimed at a smaller market. The Red WO GT Apo refractor sold initially as a limited run or the new Istar Apo and super Apo lens cells that are produced in small batches is to me indicative of an industry that is cautious, that takes its time to establish an interest based on proven quality control in order to feed a relatively small community that is discerning, knowledgeable and highly vocal. I mention the above because sitting in between these two camps are the retailers who are relatively small in size and number, who try to make a living within this commercial dialogue and whose success is negotiated on smaller and smaller margins. This makes them sensitive to their own stock levels and thus affecting their ability to trade without affecting customer service.

The equipment needs of astronomy do not form an essential part of our day to day existence (...I know at times this can be debatable ) and so economics will sit high on the list of considerations when we are negotiating within ourselves the question of desirability versus affordability. So the manufacturers cautiousness in production and supply, the community's discernment and sensitivity to price with a limited number of retailers negotiating between the two is bound to effect levels of customer service which won't always be at its best amongst these competing interests. I have argued on here several times that price is only relative to what you get in exchange for it and that must always include customer service.

James

[tinny]

Hmmm thanks for all that info...a lot of that makes sense of the slightly bizarre service I received from a well known retailer! He sounded extremely jaded from answering my perhaps slightly too enthusiastic questions i.e. whens it coming?what day?are we nearly there yet, etc....

I guess I hate to think of someone being put off for good before they've even started...

Anyway, who am I to complain, I still don't know which end of the telescope to look down!

Thanks again that was really interesting

[jimmyjamjoejoe]

I still don't know which end of the telescope to look down!

You LOOK down these things? I've been playing them like didgery doos!

[tinny]

Haha I'd give anything to see that jimmyjammy!