Here's one of my "older" friends. A 1960s Sears 76/1200mm refractor. Outstanding optics. The mount is very solid although hampered by somewhat wobbly legs.

Still, this scope can offer a LOT to a new astronomer who does not have a lot of cash to invest but wants good optics. No CA because of the focal length. This scope has enough in-focus that you can use a .965" to 1.25" adapter and therefore use a high quality diagonal and eyepieces.

The Sears and Tasco 3" scopes are very similar and pop up for sale quite often. Definitely worth considering - while you are saving up for that 115mm APO!