On Sat, 8 Jan 2005 16:28:16 +0100, "Thierry" - wrote:

Oh Oh !

I have read some ads for Skywatcher 80 ED-like small refactors below... 360
USD whereas the Megres II and other 80ED hit $900...
Any clue to justify a drop of $600 for two so-called "semi-apo". I
laughing... !?

Has someone tested the mount of the first or better, compared the quality of
this low-end Skywatcher vs an Orion or any good achromat ? Where is the
difference. Only in the mount, the lens, both, or all features are really
*not* on-par...between these brands (I have the Orion 80ED and tested the
megrez II so I know the differences, but to reach $360 only, what does it
remain, plastic made in china ?

You must think Orion's prices are cheap.
The Sky Watcher is IDENTICAL, except for the colour. It also comes
with a set of rings, the Orion doesn't. Lets face it; Orion is a
costly place to buy things, if you can get them elsewhere.
-Rich