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Old model Televid APO 62mm (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter pluton
- Start date
Hi,
in general good examples of older scope models can still offer a very good view - even better than those examples of current alpha scopes made on a monday...
But since sample variation exists even for alpha brands, I would only buy a used instrument if I could either inspect it personally or from a dealer with a no questions asked return policy (that also extends to used instruments).
With older Leica scopes one should look for coating damage - they had some problems with their coatings not being very resistant to salt water in the past...
Joachim
in general good examples of older scope models can still offer a very good view - even better than those examples of current alpha scopes made on a monday...
But since sample variation exists even for alpha brands, I would only buy a used instrument if I could either inspect it personally or from a dealer with a no questions asked return policy (that also extends to used instruments).
With older Leica scopes one should look for coating damage - they had some problems with their coatings not being very resistant to salt water in the past...
Joachim
Rotherbirder
Well-known member
Agree with Joachim. I think that the coatings issue blighted the 77 model more than the 62. I'm still using a 'cherry' APO 62 bought new in 2004 and I haven't found anything to beat it - a superb scope. I have the zoom and 26xWW (30x on 77), a useful second eyepiece to have if you can find one. As with all optics, it's down to what suits you.
RB
RB
PennineBirder
Well-known member
I have the APO 62 also and agree with RB that a good one is hard to beat. It is worth bearing in mind that these 62 and 77 Televids were actually manufactured by Meopta not Leica. They were sold with the Leica badge and were possibly assembled by them. I’m not sure the current range of Televids, which are wholly manufactured by Leica I understand, are optically as good?
Peter
I have seen one current 82mm in a store which should never have left the factory - the shopkeeper was not too happy with it...
A few others from fellow birders in the field were ok.
Joachim
