Any comments on a Helios 120mm F1000 refractor?

[Meerkat]

Hi,

I have got an opportunity to buy an old Helios 120mm refractor for £150 on it's original Eq mount (don't know what the mount is, but it looks sturdy enough).

The scope, mount, and it's standard accessories are all in excellent condition.

Would this be a good scope to buy at that price?

Thanks,

Steve

[RobH]

Hello Steve,

I have an old Helios Startravel 120, the F5 version and it's a great scope for widefield visual use...no good at high powers due to the short focal length introducing a lot of chromatic abberation. Wouldn't part with it though, I often use it when I'm imaging with the big scope just to stargaze

It's on an EQ 3-2 mount which is adequate visually.

Is the scope you're looking at the longer version?

At £150 you'll get a decent visual scope.

Cheers

Rob

[RobH]

Should have looked at the title....so, it's the long version.

The EQ 3-2 may be a bit small for this, it's quite a big scope. If it's the EQ5 it'll be fine.

You won't have the CA problems associated with the lower F-ratio scopes and should get some good planetary views with it.

Cheers

Rob

[GazOC]

I've had this scope on a EQ3/2 and its a little shaky but def. usable. Thats a decent price you've been quoted as well.

[Meerkat]

Should be picking it up today, might need a snow plough though.

Feels like it's Christmas Can't wait to see what goodies it comes with, and to find out what the mount is, whether EQ3-2 or EQ5.

Steve