Telescope Reviews: Unitron 131-C

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Unitron 131-C
#5708582 - 03/02/13 11:12 AM Attachment (115 downloads)

I figured i better start my own seperate thread on this Unitron 131-C before i test the patience of any of the Mods with my posting in the other thread

Eventually i`ll post some more images but heres a couple ive taken so far, once its all cleaned up i`ll take more.
Here`s one of the tube, the Meade ETX 90RA behind it was tossed into the deal free, Its like new..

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5708593 - 03/02/13 11:16 AM Attachment (57 downloads)

The Unihex and eyepieces that came with it.
Someone had a t-ring duck taped to the 1.25" tube, so i
need to clean that old dried up glue off it.
I have the focuser tube for the Unihex, its just not in the image, the other tube that is is some sort of extension or something.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5708596 - 03/02/13 11:17 AM Attachment (53 downloads)

One shot of the mount..needs a good cleaning, and i`ll relube it.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5708609 - 03/02/13 11:24 AM

Once i get time i`ll post a few more. It came with a Unitron box thats in excellent shape but i`m not sure what its for, it just had some accessories in it.
I`ll also post a objective image, glass and coating are in excellent shape.
What does puzzle me is why it came with 3 aperature reduction masks

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javago
super member

Reged: 11/02/04

Loc: Geldrop-Netherlands

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5708628 - 03/02/13 11:40 AM Attachment (55 downloads)

Nice Unitron Dave !.....I found one a couple of weeks ago and in a great condition like yours.Only thing missing are the solar plates and rod.Did you get them with your telescope?

Jan-Netherlands

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Da Bear
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 11/21/06

Loc: Kali-Forn-Ya

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: javago]
#5708654 - 03/02/13 11:56 AM

Just wonderful...

Da Bear

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tim53
Postmaster

Reged: 12/17/04

Loc: Highland Park, CA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Da Bear]
#5708784 - 03/02/13 12:52 PM

Wow, you done good with that purchase!

-Tim.

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niteskystargazer
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/05/09

Loc: 41-43'-28" N 87-42'-39" W

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5708854 - 03/02/13 01:38 PM

Nice Unitron Dave !

.

CS,KLU,

,

Tom

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sgorton99
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/30/08

Loc: Wisconsin, Madison

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: niteskystargazer]
#5708859 - 03/02/13 01:41 PM

Awesome!

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: sgorton99]
#5708983 - 03/02/13 03:15 PM

Wonderful find. I'm glad you got it. I thought of running up there to have a look too when I saw the CL listing but had to stop myself

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Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5708988 - 03/02/13 03:20 PM

What bends the light inside those tubes, prisms or mirrors?

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5709195 - 03/02/13 05:38 PM

Mirrors. Flats.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5709198 - 03/02/13 05:39 PM

Gee!, i didnt know Unitrons were so popular around here

, i do realy appreciate all the nice comments from everyone, Thank! You All.

I have to give another Big Thanks! to my friend Tom Kiehl for calling me about this scope about a hr after it appeared on Craigslist, then over the course of a few conversations he persuaded me to call about it and set up a time to go see it, the rest as they say is history.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: javago]
#5709211 - 03/02/13 05:45 PM Attachment (40 downloads)

Hi Jan,

You have a real Beauty there, Congratulations for also finding one.
Yes, mine came with the sun plates, here`s a image of them.
The smaller one on the right is i believe to another telescope, but it was in the box also.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5709219 - 03/02/13 05:48 PM

Quote:

What bends the light inside those tubes, prisms or mirrors?

Hi Joe, it has two first surface mirrors inside, a small 36mm diameter one up by the objective and a 60mm diameter mirror at the focuser end.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709228 - 03/02/13 05:55 PM Attachment (37 downloads)

Not sure why there was three of these aperature reduction masks in the box, i know you use them for the sun.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709240 - 03/02/13 05:59 PM Attachment (31 downloads)

The Box, this is the only one that came with it, i`m not sure what its for but its in realy great shape, i know its not for the tube, not deep enough.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709245 - 03/02/13 06:00 PM Attachment (36 downloads)

Box inside..

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Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709506 - 03/02/13 08:21 PM

Quote:

Quote:

What bends the light inside those tubes, prisms or mirrors?

Hi Joe, it has two first surface mirrors inside, a small 36mm diameter one up by the objective and a 60mm diameter mirror at the focuser end.

Took a moment to follow that. The light path is folded. The point is that the larger mirror must be nearer to the objective, and the smaller mirror nearer to the focuser, at least viewed in relation to the direction of photons in the visible spectrum flying along the scope's light cone. They enter a 3" aperture, bounce off the large mirror, then the small mirror, then exit the still smaller eyepiece. If we excited the photons into X-rays so they could pass through the walls, then, sure; due to the folding, the small mirror would be near the objective, and the large mirror near the focuser, but that's not how visible-light photons in the tube see it.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5709567 - 03/02/13 09:06 PM

Quote:

Quote:

Quote:

What bends the light inside those tubes, prisms or mirrors?

Hi Joe, it has two first surface mirrors inside, a small 36mm diameter one up by the objective and a 60mm diameter mirror at the focuser end.

Took a moment to follow that. The light path is folded. The point is that the larger mirror must be nearer to the objective, and the smaller mirror nearer to the focuser, at least viewed in relation to the direction of photons in the visible spectrum flying along the scope's light cone. They enter a 3" aperture, bounce off the large mirror, then the small mirror, then exit the still smaller eyepiece. If we excited the photons into X-rays so they could pass through the walls, then, sure; due to the folding, the small mirror would be near the objective, and the large mirror near the focuser, but that's not how visible-light photons in the tube see it.

Yeah, the larger mirror would be closer to the objective if following the light path, physically they are positioned as i mentioned above

Sorry if i was confusing on it.

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JonH
super member

Reged: 04/07/12

Loc: Brisbane Australia

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709674 - 03/02/13 10:29 PM

I am curious about the box that came with your beautiful scope. I cant picture what it was supposed to hold. If it is too narrow for a folded refractor what bit of kit would have fitted those supports? I guess it could have been a scope and tripod container as sold with some of the Unitron 114s, but if that is the case why arent there any eyepiece or prism holders and no divider to stop the tripod messing with the OTA?

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: JonH]
#5709703 - 03/02/13 10:54 PM

I`m curious also, im hoping someone recognises it and knows what its for.
Its outer dimensions are 22" long x 9" wide x 4.5" deep.

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gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709712 - 03/02/13 11:00 PM

Its not very long. I wonder if it is from a spotting scope.

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Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5709743 - 03/02/13 11:25 PM

The folded Unitron is one of my favorite scopes. Never seen one in person, but hope to someday. Is the image somewhat dimmed due to the mirrors? Nothing modern coatings couldn't fix. The steadiness on the mount must be radically improved with so short a tube.

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bremms
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 08/31/12

Loc: SC

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5709862 - 03/03/13 02:01 AM

At that age those mirrors are 70% reflective each so you are about 50% throughput on the mirrors. Your 3" has about as much light to the eyepiece as a 2.2" scope. Plus alignment issues, more wavefront error and scattering. Might be a cool scope, but performance will suffer.

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Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: bremms]
#5710217 - 03/03/13 09:43 AM

The scope's flaws are as expected. Still, it's a classic, and insanely cool! Looking at the mounts of the day, the increased steadiness must have somewhat offset the degraded image, but not much. Optically, sounds as though it's like having a good, but not great, 60mm that nevertheless has the resolution of a 3-inch. Still, it's a quirky favorite of mine.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: bremms]
#5710270 - 03/03/13 10:09 AM

One could "assume" that might be the case.
The mirrors look in excellent condition given their age.
Since they are in such excellent condition i have no plans to have modern coatings applied.

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Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5710479 - 03/03/13 11:41 AM

A lot goes into choosing a telescope, from the expectation of what one might see, to the ease of carrying it outside, to the ineffable pleasure of using it. All told, the folded Unitron is one of the greats, a good-sized refractor in the ultimate grab-and-go package, surrounded in the glow of history and ingenious design. Congratulations!

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5710508 - 03/03/13 11:55 AM

Thanks! Joe, i couldnt agree more, very well stated.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5710535 - 03/03/13 12:22 PM

That small box is for the Unitron 80mm spotting scope.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5710540 - 03/03/13 12:24 PM

And if you are interested you can, out of two of those spotting scope boxes, make a box that will hold the 131C. If you would like pictures of how I did it just ask.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: bremms]
#5710544 - 03/03/13 12:26 PM

Exactly why I am planning to replace the mirrors in one of mine to see if I can improve the performance of the 131C.

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5710555 - 03/03/13 12:29 PM

Precisely why I like the thru-put of a straight thru design coupled with a quality prism. No mirrors (I don't smoke)

Terra

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5710563 - 03/03/13 12:36 PM

This was Unitron attempt to counter the high end shorter focal legth APO's. I always wonder what would have happened if they would have started making APO telescopes. I do know they attempted to start selling telescopes again, but in order to compete with price market were obtaining products out of China. However, they could not find a source to be able to produce the quality that people were expecting from Unitron so they left the telescope market completely.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5710565 - 03/03/13 12:37 PM

Thanks! for the ID on the Unitron box Johann.
Yes, please do post some pictures of you box here, ide love to see them.

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xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5710583 - 03/03/13 12:45 PM

Congratulations with your new Unitron. Great find.
Is one of the few missing in my collection.

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5710594 - 03/03/13 12:49 PM

If you do replace them ide be interested in your results.
I dont have any imediate plans on replacing mine but who knows, i could be tempted at some point.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5710613 - 03/03/13 01:01 PM

I would think they are at least 1/10 flats. I am not sure it I ever saw any specifications on the mirrors. Considering the wavefront on the objective and 1/10 mirrors I would be surprised it it comes close to 1/4 at the eyepiece. Anybody else have any opinions on this?

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5710855 - 03/03/13 03:33 PM Attachment (16 downloads)

Here`s a shot of the objective, apparently mine is also one of the rare green tinted ones, see the next to last page, and last page in this thread.
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/4715419/page...
His is marked with a C531 on the lens cell, mine is marked C540.
Thought that was rather interesting..

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mustgobigger
Post Laureate

Reged: 06/12/07

Loc: Michigan

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5710964 - 03/03/13 04:37 PM

I am going to do some testing
With mine when the weather gets a little better.
I think mine will blow away any
60mm let alone 55mm as stated
Above.
maybe ill try a photo light meter
At the eyepiece between mine and
A 60mm.
No one will make me believe
It compairs to 55mm.
I am so swamped it might be awhile
Before I get a chance to test but
I will do that.
I get great views with mine and
No way any of 50 or more 60mm
Scopes I have viewed through
Match it.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: mustgobigger]
#5710992 - 03/03/13 04:55 PM

It is always fun to read comments from people who have never used the equipment they are commenting on. Wonder if any new scientific discoveries would ever even been thought of if enough people were critical like that. We might still be reading by candle light.

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711110 - 03/03/13 05:54 PM

Hence the smoke.......... And mirrors comment

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5711137 - 03/03/13 06:08 PM

Thanks! xavier

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DAVIDG
Post Laureate

Reged: 12/02/04

Loc: Hockessin, De

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5711183 - 03/03/13 06:33 PM

The resolution won't be effected by the mirrors only the brightness of the image. With fresh standard Al coatings, reflectivity is about 88% so with two mirrors your down to 77%. If you use a star diagonal it's thru put is also around 90% so your down to 70%. It is the same when you use a Cassegrain with a star diagonal as well.
The mirrors are small so to have them enhanced coated won't cost that much. What is more critical is the flatness, especially for the mirror directly behind the objective. They both should be good to 1/10 wave for the best performance. I would test them before replacing them and/or recoating them. It's an easy test and you can get a good understanding of the surface flatness by using a small optical flat of known quality. Surplus Shed has small flats that are good 1/20 wave and also a couple at 1/10 wave that under $20.

- Dave

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Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711373 - 03/03/13 08:13 PM

Quote:

It is always fun to read comments from people who have never used the equipment they are commenting on. Wonder if any new scientific discoveries would ever even been thought of if enough people were critical like that. We might still be reading by candle light.

Using Classic telescopes is the realm of astronomers who are both dreamers and doers, who often research rare items that they may never see in person, and then buy and use what they can both find and afford. Whether that is true is a fair question, so I've started a thread asking about people's motivations.

In my case, I have never seen a Unitron 131-C, yet according to DavidG's post, my speculations based on the physics were spot-on. I think they were also misunderstood. If the actual brightness MustGoBigger measures shows that he has both the necessary resolution of a 75mm objective and better light throughput than a 60mm or 55mm, that will speak to the excellent quality of his scope's mirrors, not to a flaw in optical theory.

I'm a Nerd. I love physics. I do not feel that others are obliged to share my interest, but can say that what makes a Nerd a Nerd is not an elitism based on understanding calculations, but an aesthetic and egalitarian response to the wonderful truths those calculations reveal. I'll further posit that scientific discoveries are never made by people who restrict their thoughts to realms they know. They are made by those who see what they know appear in something new, and leverage that to discover further qualities in the new. If we'd rather read by candle light, we should invent a world where people restrict themselves to ever manipulating only what they already know, a dull world indeed.

Because most of us will never see most of the wonderful telescopes discussed in this forum, I hope we'll encourage the dreamers to dream, to ask, to speculate wisely, and those who know from experience to confirm the expanding knowledge. If, for fear of being razzed or any other reason, people were afraid to post about equipment they have never seen, Classic Telescopes would become a sparse forum indeed.

I've occasionally seen, but never driven, a Ferrari. May I be forgiven for saying I think it's a wonderful car? The Unitron 131-C fascinates me, despite that I've never seen or used one. If ever I see one for sale at a price I could afford, I'll buy it -- and then I'll post about it for my fellow dreamers, and invite them to my star parties to try it. A welcoming attitude expands everyone's knowledge.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5711439 - 03/03/13 08:41 PM

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Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711540 - 03/03/13 09:40 PM

Let me guess, plain, buttered, carmel and cheese..

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5711577 - 03/03/13 09:54 PM

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711579 - 03/03/13 09:55 PM Attachment (19 downloads)

pics of 131C box made from spotting scope boxes

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711585 - 03/03/13 09:59 PM Attachment (16 downloads)

pic 2

I did not cut the wood for the cradle to hold the scope in place, but for now it functions and protects the scope. I have the original boxes with the other 131C's I have so I have a good model. Nor sure if I will leave the extra handle on the box.

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mustgobigger
Post Laureate

Reged: 06/12/07

Loc: Michigan

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711617 - 03/03/13 10:14 PM

Well with the sharp images I am getting
I will not mess with mine.
Even if its not as bright as a Refractor
Straight through...all users would
Most likely use a diagonal so they
Cancell each other out and anything
Compared would lose same percentage.
I can't speak for other 131's but
I have viewed side by side
With a 142 unitron
And will never touch mirrors or
alignment on 131.
If optics were just ok I might try
To put better flats in...
Can't argue with physics but
I just don't see 30% difference.
also some 75mmon unitron
were known to have iffy optics...
More than a few threads over the years
Of buyers getting duds.
Also having mine on a 1421 mount
Doesn't hurt as its quite stable.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711640 - 03/03/13 10:25 PM

Thanks for posting those images Johann, thats a nice idea and it looks great, something i could consider doing if i ever run across another box like i have.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: mustgobigger]
#5711641 - 03/03/13 10:25 PM

here here

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5711644 - 03/03/13 10:27 PM

you never know who might have those spotting scope boxes laying around

Post Extras:

snork
super member

Reged: 01/27/12

Loc: NE Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711657 - 03/03/13 10:34 PM

That's a great looking scope Dave! Nice find. Frying pans weren't flying??

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: snork]
#5711673 - 03/03/13 10:43 PM

Quote:

That's a great looking scope Dave! Nice find. Frying pans weren't flying??

No, but you can bet i have a equal or greater expenditure in my future.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5711712 - 03/03/13 11:11 PM

Hmm!, do i get a couple guesses

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5711723 - 03/03/13 11:19 PM

Nope. I do not allow that.

Post Extras:

Joe Cepleur
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 03/18/10

Loc: Dark North Woods

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5711987 - 03/04/13 06:47 AM

Quote:

Quote:

That's a great looking scope Dave! Nice find. Frying pans weren't flying??

No, but you can bet i have a equal or greater expenditure in my future.

You're buying a 4" Unitron for your wife?!

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Joe Cepleur]
#5712218 - 03/04/13 10:19 AM

I wish thast`s what it was

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5712602 - 03/04/13 02:01 PM Attachment (16 downloads)

Quote:

Here`s a shot of the objective, apparently mine is also one of the rare green tinted ones, see the next to last page, and last page in this thread.
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/4715419/page...
His is marked with a C531 on the lens cell, mine is marked C540.
Thought that was rather interesting..

Just bumping this back up since i wanted to know if anyone had any information about the green lens being rarer ?
Did only a certain number of 131-C`s have it, and can anyone tell me how many Unitron model 131-C`s were believed to been produced ?
Thanks!

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: mustgobigger]
#5712732 - 03/04/13 03:24 PM

"also some 75mmon unitron
were known to have iffy optics...
More than a few threads over the years
Of buyers getting duds."

Hi Brian,

Just a note here, not disputing you, but it was my understanding that the 3 inch Unitron objectives were overall very very good, some of the very best the company was known for and that the ones with problems tended to be the 4 inch objectives, some of which were duds as you say?

Anyone else want to clarify this?

Terra

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5712735 - 03/04/13 03:28 PM

That's a gorgeous objective Dave. I wonder if the green coatings on these which look different than those on other Unitrons (mine for instance) might be some of what is increasing the light throughput despite the additional reflective surfaces as Brian has noted.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5712752 - 03/04/13 03:36 PM

reportedly 100 131C's
None of the 131C's I have are with a green lens. I was hoping because rumor had it they were made by Pentax.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5712779 - 03/04/13 03:50 PM

Thanks! Terra, it could be but i couldnt say for sure.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5712798 - 03/04/13 04:00 PM

Quote:

reportedly 100 131C's
None of the 131C's I have are with a green lens. I was hoping because rumor had it they were made by Pentax.

Thanks! Johann,

100 is what i thought i heard before but i wasnt sure i remembered correctly.
I did just dig this archived thread up and caveman mentions
a green Pentax Unitron objective.
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbarchive/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/2010743/page...

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5712909 - 03/04/13 04:57 PM

I have a 4" Unitron that I was inspecting the other day and I noticed on this lens when I shined a LED flashlight through the lens I saw a green reflection. The other one I was inspecting showed a blue reflection. I will have to try this on some of the other 4" unitrons to see what color I see. I will have to look to see if the lens has a number on it.

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713002 - 03/04/13 05:39 PM

Just hold and point your lens toward a bright window and move it around a little, you should then see what color the reflection of the window is.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5713086 - 03/04/13 06:33 PM

I will have to wait until the sun comes back out wont I

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sgorton99
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713094 - 03/04/13 06:37 PM

Quote:

I will have to try this on some of the other 4" unitrons to see what color I see.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: sgorton99]
#5713109 - 03/04/13 06:47 PM

your going to hurt your forehead if you keep doing that

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713115 - 03/04/13 06:49 PM

There was a strange glowing ball of light in the sky for a short time here today! What could it have been

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5713116 - 03/04/13 06:51 PM

Was it green?

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713121 - 03/04/13 06:54 PM

No. Strangely yellow!

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5713124 - 03/04/13 06:56 PM

wow. I saw that today also. Was going to take one of the 4" unitrons and get a better look at it

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5713150 - 03/04/13 07:15 PM

I think ive seen the yellow thing before

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5713190 - 03/04/13 07:33 PM Attachment (10 downloads)

I got bored so here`s a image of the 131-C spec sheet.
Its probably safe to say the 25 year warranty has run out

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sgorton99
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713288 - 03/04/13 08:21 PM

Quote:

wow. I saw that today also. Was going to take one of the 4" unitrons and get a better look at it

Awesome! Some pictures of all your amazing scopes would be much appreciated!

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: sgorton99]
#5713292 - 03/04/13 08:24 PM

Not sure if I have enough time to set them all up in this lifetime

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713313 - 03/04/13 08:34 PM

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5713320 - 03/04/13 08:37 PM

Warranty might still be valid. 1993 +25= 2018. Let's hope you do not need to send it in for warranty service.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713377 - 03/04/13 09:11 PM

1993 ?, according to Company 7`s website is states they were introduced in 1980.
See down near the bottom of the page, here..
http://www.company7.com/library/unitron/unitron_114.html

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5713416 - 03/04/13 09:35 PM

I thought that they stopped selling telescope in 1993. The 131C was in the 1985 catalog. However, research shows that Unitron might have stopped selling scopes in 1992 not 1993 like I thought. I do not know when they stopped selling the 131C. So even if the last 131C was sold in 1990 the 25 year warranty is good until 2015. Does anyone else have a later catalog?

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5713955 - 03/05/13 07:46 AM

According to the Company7 article it does look as if 1992 was the last year they sold scopes. It states the 131-C and 132-C was introduced in 1980, if they only produced 100 of the model 131-C`s and ive heard less than that of the model 132-C`s, i cant imagine that they were produced for very many years, they must have only produced a very limited number per year, maybe 10 or 20 if as you mentioned it was still shown in a 1985 catalog

It is interesting stuff

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5715017 - 03/05/13 06:11 PM

Now its a little more confusing as to when the Unitron 131-C`s were introduced/produced.
Company7 states 1980, but on this site with all the vintage scope manuals and catalogs it shows a 1977 4 page black and white catalog courtesy of Neil Barnett.
And the 1978 Unitron catalog in German shows the 131-C in it.
http://geogdata.csun.edu/~voltaire/classics/
Does anyone know the actual history on the production of these 131-C`s ?

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5718912 - 03/07/13 05:39 PM

According to Unitron they sold the 131C untill the early 90's. However, do not even think I repeat, do not even think of sending it in for warranty service

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5718951 - 03/07/13 05:54 PM

Dont worry, i wouldnt think of it

Johann, where did you see the info from Unitron that said they sold them until the early 90`s, just curious..

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5718972 - 03/07/13 06:04 PM

I got the info from someone that worked at Unitron. They were also in their 1992 catalog, but those are very hard to find.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5719062 - 03/07/13 06:52 PM

Thanks Johann, they must have only produced/sold a very limited number of 131-C`s per year then.

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sgorton99
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5719068 - 03/07/13 06:56 PM

Interesting. Anyone know how many 4", 5" and 6" Unitrons were made/sold?

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Mike Hood
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5719086 - 03/07/13 07:06 PM

Dave, I have a 131-C serial number # 134 Unitron. I am the
original owner and purchased it just after it was intoduced in 1977. The exact date was July 24, 1977.

Mike

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Mike Hood]
#5719103 - 03/07/13 07:14 PM

Thanks Mike, thats interesting, where is your serial number located ?
I dont recall seeing one on mine.

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Mike Hood
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5719136 - 03/07/13 07:25 PM

It is located on the lens cell and in the paper work I pulled up.

Mike

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Mike Hood]
#5719191 - 03/07/13 07:51 PM

Where on the lens cell? ? I never noticed a serial number.

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Mike Hood
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5719198 - 03/07/13 07:55 PM

It is located on the front of the lens cell. It is shown
in Dave's photo on his objective. His serial number is
#540 mine is #534.

Mike

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Mike Hood]
#5719218 - 03/07/13 08:00 PM

I need to go look

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5719230 - 03/07/13 08:04 PM

None of mine have a serial number. I think they only put serial numbers on the ones with the green coated lenses.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5719236 - 03/07/13 08:06 PM

Anyone else have a 131C with a serial number on the lens cell?

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Mike Hood]
#5719277 - 03/07/13 08:25 PM

I suppose just the green lenses were marked, there`s another green lens in this older thread thats marke C-531.
http://www.cloudynights.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php/Cat/0/Number/4715419/page...

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5728528 - 03/12/13 04:30 PM Attachment (13 downloads)

Finally had some time to clean up the mount, i first cleaned it with Goo Gone, then done a final cleaning with Aurora 3000 hand glaze, the Aurora contains no wax or silicone, it removes 3000 grit or micro scratches and leaves a glass like shine.
The image doesnt do it justice but it looks like brand new now, i couldnt be happier with it.
Next i`ll work on cleaning up the tripod, it has the usual
normal scrapes and dings from use, i`ll run one of the legs up to the guys at PPG Industries and have them match up the stain, they`ll work on it until they get it perfect.

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5728537 - 03/12/13 04:32 PM

Looking good. Shines up like new baby!

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5728542 - 03/12/13 04:35 PM

Thanks! Terra

Edited by Dave M (03/12/13 05:00 PM)

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akman1955
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5741156 - 03/18/13 05:01 PM

Quote:

reportedly 100 131C's
None of the 131C's I have are with a green lens. I was hoping because rumor had it they were made by Pentax.

I have had 3 131-c and two I still have are green tinted lense. the polarex the brian has was not green tinted...also the 132-c I had was green tinted to and bought that in 1980

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akman1955
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: akman1955]
#5741170 - 03/18/13 05:07 PM Attachment (12 downloads)

one of my green tinted ones has a number on lense..the other does not but both green tinted

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akman1955
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: akman1955]
#5741173 - 03/18/13 05:08 PM Attachment (13 downloads)

other one powdercoated mistic purple

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5741201 - 03/18/13 05:22 PM

You are gonna love that eq. mount Dave. It is the same as on my Model 128 except with a heavier counter weight (yours). It is smooth as butter and rock solid. I am going to get the clock drive for mine next month, in time for summer observing. If you decide to get the clock drive, you need the one for the 128 (60mm) not the 142 (76mm).

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5741381 - 03/18/13 06:38 PM

Thanks for posting that info John, thats interesting, makes me wonder how many had the green lens. Nice scopes ..
Mine came with two different length tubes that go into the focuser drawtube, not sure of the purpose of that.?

Terra, Thanks for the info on the drive, i wasnt aware there was two models. I been thinking about adding one sometime this summer. I should have this gem ready to see light again soon, i just finished up the Unihex, took it apart and cleaned it, cleaned the little spring and ball bearing, lightly re-lubed it. It now works like new, clicks right into each position now

..
Next up is the tripod and cleaning the focuser..

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5742454 - 03/19/13 08:56 AM

Dave different length draw tubes allow you to focus different eyepieces(higher power need longer drawtubes)...They also only made 100 of the 75mm compacts and 25 of the 100mm compacts.

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akman1955
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: akman1955]
#5742457 - 03/19/13 08:58 AM Attachment (10 downloads)

Dave, here is what original box looks like..

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: akman1955]
#5743351 - 03/19/13 04:13 PM

if you also look closely you will see that the 131C has the deluxe 75mm focuser.

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5744943 - 03/20/13 11:38 AM

Thanks John,

thats what i thought about those tubes since they each have a eyepiece adapter on them, but i wasnt 100% sure about it.
Appreciate the box image, if you get a chance could you please post the measurements of the box ?.

Thanks Johann, i keep learning more and more about these scopes thanks to all the fantastic members here.

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5748658 - 03/21/13 10:18 PM

Anyone know what kind of metal the Unitron tripod spreader bar/tray is made of ?
Looks a gold color..

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TOM KIEHL
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5748661 - 03/21/13 10:19 PM

TRY a magnet on it dave

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: TOM KIEHL]
#5748674 - 03/21/13 10:23 PM

Tried it, its magnetic..

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TOM KIEHL
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5748688 - 03/21/13 10:31 PM

Well then it's not GOLD, it maybe gold colored, and cost as much as gold , but it must have some iron it, ide say it is cad. plated or zinc plated...

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: TOM KIEHL]
#5748703 - 03/21/13 10:58 PM

Somehow i knew the GOLD comment was coming

Mine spreader tray has a couple dark spots, maybe rust.
Wonder whats the best way to clean or restore it.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5748708 - 03/21/13 11:03 PM

Well, i found this, so it looks like your right about the zinc plating.
http://www.yellowzincplating.com/

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5748722 - 03/21/13 11:11 PM

Or you could get a new one. I have heard rumors of someone that has them

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TOM KIEHL
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5748731 - 03/21/13 11:14 PM

Quote:

Somehow i knew the GOLD comment was coming
Mine spreader tray has a couple dark spots, maybe rust.
Wonder whats the best way to clean or restore it.

Well without getting too agressive with cleaning, Why not try that real fine polishing compound you have??

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: TOM KIEHL]
#5748758 - 03/21/13 11:30 PM Attachment (6 downloads)

I did, it helped but the spotting is still there.
Tomorrow i`ll add a image to this post.

edit

Here`s the tray, its not that bad, mainly just has a little corrosion along the bottom crease in the tray and around a couple rivets, and a couple spots on one of the arms.
It probably wouldnt bother most people, but me thats another story

Edited by Dave M (03/22/13 01:34 PM)

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snork
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: TOM KIEHL]
#5748767 - 03/21/13 11:34 PM

Re-plating would be the best. The plating is only about .0003 thick so as Tom said any aggressiveness will remove the plating. If the spots are rust then the plating has failed in those spots. It can be re-plated inexspensively.

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: snork]
#5748823 - 03/21/13 11:59 PM

Thanks! Dan, ide agree on the replating. I`ll send you that image tomorrow, its really not bad, but replating would restore it back to that new look

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PiSigma
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5749314 - 03/22/13 09:48 AM

Yes, they are yellow zinc plated. I recently stripped the ones on my 145C and had them replated.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5749332 - 03/22/13 09:55 AM

Jon, how did you strip/prep yours before recoating ?
Just fine sanding ?

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PiSigma
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5749711 - 03/22/13 01:25 PM

I bead blasted mine at work but most platers will also strip them for you (for an additional charge of course). Our race shop has had a lot of classic telescope parts pass through it.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5750283 - 03/22/13 05:54 PM

K Thanks Jon..

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5754593 - 03/24/13 05:52 PM Attachment (6 downloads)

When i bought the 131-C i recieved two Unitron R 25mm eyepieces with it, when i cleaned up the Unihex and all the eyepieces i noticed the two 25mm were different.
The one on right has a smaller eye lens compared to the one on left. Was it just that one is newer than the other or is there some other reason for it ?

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5754650 - 03/24/13 06:14 PM

They may have been short of glass that year

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5754665 - 03/24/13 06:22 PM

Most likely a different vendor made them. Unitron farmed everything out.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5754692 - 03/24/13 06:32 PM

I like the one on left best, easier to look through.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5754702 - 03/24/13 06:36 PM

the depends on the size of your eyeball

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5754740 - 03/24/13 06:58 PM

When did they change the 25mm design from Huygens to Ramsden? I figure around 1970?

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gelkin
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5755041 - 03/24/13 09:44 PM Attachment (5 downloads)

Quote:

When did they change the 25mm design from Huygens to Ramsden? I figure around 1970?

I have three sets of early brass top (gold letter) eyepieces, one very early 50's two late 50's to very early 60's. These are Huygens. I have two sets from late 60's and early 70's that are aluminum tops and are Ransdens. So probably mid to late 60's along with straight to slant lettering was the change.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5755057 - 03/24/13 09:54 PM Attachment (4 downloads)

There was also an H.M. (Huygenian Mittenzwey) 25mm eyepiece. This i believe to be a much later model. Only judging by the appearence on that statement. Seen at the first slot bottom row in this box.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5755134 - 03/24/13 10:35 PM

Nice eyepiece set Gerald

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5755210 - 03/24/13 11:30 PM Attachment (4 downloads)

My Unitron 25mm is the Huygens (H) with straight but white letters.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5755215 - 03/24/13 11:33 PM

I`ll second that, Great eyepieces Gerald, Super Nice

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5755233 - 03/24/13 11:43 PM

I like the Wood Wonders box, Terra.
Are you going to put green felt in the lid like Gerald`s Unitron box.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5755665 - 03/25/13 08:35 AM

Quote:

Nice eyepiece set Gerald

Thanks all. Sure wish i had a 5mm ortho to fill out the box Johann.

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5755686 - 03/25/13 08:56 AM

I am Dave. I just got some more,green felt. I had used what I had up on other things.

Terra

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5755696 - 03/25/13 09:06 AM

You know I am going to get better secuitry for my place. You guys are starting to make me nervous

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5755702 - 03/25/13 09:15 AM Attachment (8 downloads)

That would be this one

But its not for sale

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5755703 - 03/25/13 09:16 AM Attachment (5 downloads)

With the rest of the fam

Post Extras:

PiSigma
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 10/14/09

Loc: North Carolina

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5755747 - 03/25/13 09:48 AM

Beautiful set Gerald. What is that in the top row of your box, far right?

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5755751 - 03/25/13 09:50 AM

Nice collection Terra. You guys are all so lucky having all those nice eyepieces.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5755754 - 03/25/13 09:52 AM

Terra you are missing a few. The R25 is much nicer to look through than the H25

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5755755 - 03/25/13 09:53 AM

Nice eyepieces Terra

Only Ortho i have is a 6mm.
So Unitron eyepiece with the gold letters has a metal top ?, and from Geralds earlier post, the eyepieces were changed to a slanted white letter in the mid 60`s to early 70`s and made with plastic tops ?, so the strait white letter eyepieces have metal tops ?
Just trying to make sure i got this correct

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5755799 - 03/25/13 10:15 AM

The gold letter ones have a brass top and they are gold because they are not painted white. Some people suggested they ran out of white paint during that run

not even Unitron knows why there are gold lettered eyepieces so this will remain a mystery. The biggest problem is that Unitron never made anything so we will never find out why unless we find a worker from Japan who made the parts for Unitron. There was more than one vendor for the parts. I am sure it was lowest bidder and they worked from a specification.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5755818 - 03/25/13 10:23 AM

What eyepieces originally came with the 131-C ?

Guess i should just looked in the manual

States the following supplied as standard equipment, and on the packing list.
6 eyepieces..
O-6mm, AS-7mm, AS-9mm, K-12.5mm, K-18mm, R-25mm.

Edited by Dave M (03/25/13 10:40 AM)

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5755851 - 03/25/13 10:36 AM

I know Johann. I want to adopt the 6mm ortho and the 25mm R to complete the family. Currently though, I am searching for a nice little Unitron 127

Terra

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5755886 - 03/25/13 10:55 AM

Ide like to find a 40mm

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5755895 - 03/25/13 10:58 AM

The 40 is a rare and beautiful bird indeed.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5755945 - 03/25/13 11:22 AM Attachment (5 downloads)

Quote:

Beautiful set Gerald. What is that in the top row of your box, far right?

Jon
That is a barlow that is inserted into the focuser side of a diaganol. Thats the same one in the left of this box. That box needs a 5mm too.

Terra
That 5mm would be great with my 1960 142 eyepeice set. Its to old for your scope, might as well sell it to me.

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5756005 - 03/25/13 11:49 AM

Actually Gerald, my 140 is an old straight letter Unitron; I'm not sure how old, but early 60s I'm sure.

You'll have to pry my 5mm outta my cold, dead hand

Terra

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5756030 - 03/25/13 11:58 AM

Do not provoke Gerrald Terra

Post Extras:

javago
super member

Reged: 11/02/04

Loc: Geldrop-Netherlands

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5756037 - 03/25/13 12:03 PM Attachment (5 downloads)

I wonder if someone has the Unitron OR 9 and OR25 EP's.....or did they come only as Polarex.....??

Edited by javago (03/25/13 12:04 PM)

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5756065 - 03/25/13 12:17 PM

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: javago]
#5756076 - 03/25/13 12:20 PM

interesting eyepieces. Will have to look at some of the Polerex eyepieces I have.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5756078 - 03/25/13 12:21 PM

Quote:

Actually Gerald, my 140 is an old straight letter Unitron; I'm not sure how old, but early 60s I'm sure.

You'll have to pry my 5mm outta my cold, dead hand

Terra

All right then. Guess i'll have to sneak down to Johann's place in the darkness of night. He's not too far away.

Those Polarex orthos are sweet.

Never saw any Unitrons like that. Anyone else ever see any?

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5756116 - 03/25/13 12:41 PM

I have some 1.25" Unitron orthos. However, there is no Unitron name on them. And Gerald, be carefull, the dog is not freindly and in the dark you will never know what Unitron you will trip over. If you are nice I will let you use the Unitron shelf light as a flashlight.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: javago]
#5756124 - 03/25/13 12:44 PM

Nice Ortho`s..

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5756155 - 03/25/13 12:58 PM Attachment (7 downloads)

A shelf light will not be a problem.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5756198 - 03/25/13 01:36 PM

nice light and beautiful scope

Post Extras:

PiSigma
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 10/14/09

Loc: North Carolina

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5756214 - 03/25/13 01:48 PM Attachment (8 downloads)

Quote:

So Unitron eyepiece with the gold letters has a metal top ?, and from Gerald's earlier post, the eyepieces were changed to a slanted white letter in the mid 60`s to early 70`s and made with plastic tops ?, so the strait white letter eyepieces have metal tops ?
Just trying to make sure i got this correct

Not 100% correct. There are slanted letter eyepieces with plastic tops (two in top row below) and metal tops (bottom row).

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5756216 - 03/25/13 01:50 PM

Looks like in the end the parts got cheaper and cheaper. Unitron was forced to compete with Chineses imports. I am sure in the end they even imported gear from China.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5756220 - 03/25/13 01:53 PM

Interesting Jon. Didn't know there were plastic top eyepieces.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5756300 - 03/25/13 02:33 PM

Oh yes, I lucked into some of them

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5756319 - 03/25/13 02:41 PM

Quote:

Quote:

So Unitron eyepiece with the gold letters has a metal top ?, and from Gerald's earlier post, the eyepieces were changed to a slanted white letter in the mid 60`s to early 70`s and made with plastic tops ?, so the strait white letter eyepieces have metal tops ?
Just trying to make sure i got this correct

Not 100% correct. There are slanted lettered eyepieces with plastic tops (two in top row below) and metal tops (bottom row).

Ok, Thanks! Jon.
I just looked at mine real close, if you look at the image i posted of my two R-25mm eyepieces, they both appear to be metal tops, each eyepiece has a tiny bit of wear showing through the black, on the one it looks silver, the
other looks gold, the one that appears to show brass is the one with the bigger eye lens, both have slanted white lettering.
Actually all of mine appear to me metal, mostly brass tops.
There`s a image of all on the first page.
Interesting!

Post Extras:

javago
super member

Reged: 11/02/04

Loc: Geldrop-Netherlands

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5756355 - 03/25/13 02:58 PM Attachment (7 downloads)

Another strange Polarex EP I have........the only one I have ever seen.Maybe common as an Unitron eyepiece ??...

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: javago]
#5756380 - 03/25/13 03:09 PM

You keep coming up with some real interesting eyepieces.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5756393 - 03/25/13 03:14 PM

Man you guys had all the cool stuff over there.

Were the plastic ones very late versions?

Post Extras:

xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5756394 - 03/25/13 03:15 PM Attachment (6 downloads)

Polarex 50mm and 60mm

Post Extras:

xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5756398 - 03/25/13 03:17 PM Attachment (5 downloads)

Polarex box of eyepieces

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5756514 - 03/25/13 04:21 PM

Wow! Nice box of glass..

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5756515 - 03/25/13 04:24 PM

Mine are all metal too, just painted and/or engraved.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5756680 - 03/25/13 05:46 PM

strange,

the 60mm looks smaller than the 50mm. Never seen that arrangement before?

Post Extras:

xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5756712 - 03/25/13 06:03 PM

The 50mm sits in a 58mm drawtube. It can only be used for straight views.
The 50mm is a little bit larger than the 60mm.
They're part of the Polarex 620.

Post Extras:

PiSigma
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 10/14/09

Loc: North Carolina

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5757092 - 03/25/13 09:55 PM

Quote:

Interesting Jon. Didn't know there were plastic top eyepieces.

I didn't either until these two showed up. I'd imagine they are later but wouldn't want to guess at a time frame.

Post Extras:

PiSigma
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 10/14/09

Loc: North Carolina

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5757102 - 03/25/13 10:01 PM Attachment (5 downloads)

Quote:

Jon
That is a barlow that is inserted into the focuser side of a diaganol. Thats the same one in the left of this box. That box needs a 5mm too.

Ah, I have one of those. It just looked different in your picture. Couldn't resist adding the 5mm EPs, sorry.

Post Extras:

sgorton99
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/30/08

Loc: Wisconsin, Madison

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5757111 - 03/25/13 10:06 PM Attachment (5 downloads)

I only have that odd 40mm with white lettering.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: sgorton99]
#5757117 - 03/25/13 10:14 PM

Why are the 40mm with the white lettering odd???

Post Extras:

sgorton99
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/30/08

Loc: Wisconsin, Madison

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5757129 - 03/25/13 10:20 PM

Quote:

Why are the 40mm with the white lettering odd???

Because it doesn't match my other nine.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: sgorton99]
#5757145 - 03/25/13 10:28 PM

Yeah, you shouldnt have one that doesnt match, i think you should send it to me since it matches mine

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: PiSigma]
#5757619 - 03/26/13 07:39 AM Attachment (6 downloads)

Quote:

Couldn't resist adding the 5mm EPs, sorry.

Two of them.

Jon your killing me.

Thats just not right.

Steve you need some choices in 40mm

Note the oldest from mid 50's is also white lettering.

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5757702 - 03/26/13 08:45 AM

Cool timeline of 40s Gerald. The Kellner preceded the monochromatic design.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5759130 - 03/26/13 08:39 PM

I see I have been too generous allocating 40mm unitron eyepieces.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759152 - 03/26/13 08:48 PM Attachment (6 downloads)

Therefore I raise you three of these

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759158 - 03/26/13 08:51 PM

Notice the difference in letteting on the 60mm. I think the oldest one is the one on the far right. The youngest is the one in the middle. I am sure the one on the far right is from the 50's. The one on the left from the 60's. No clue on the age of the middle one with slanted letters.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759169 - 03/26/13 08:58 PM

Nice!

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5759174 - 03/26/13 09:00 PM

Thanks Dave. These just sort of fell into my lap with verious trades. I have found that you find the most when you are not looking at all.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759178 - 03/26/13 09:01 PM

I bet Gerald would like to see a picture of three 5mm orthos

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759179 - 03/26/13 09:03 PM

Dave

Has the 16" meade starfinder tried to kill you yet?

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759189 - 03/26/13 09:10 PM

I know the feeling, last couple deals ive had found me

I`m just about finished going over and cleaning the 131-C with a fine tooth comb, mounts done, Unihex is done, focuser
and main tube i finished today, now i just need to clean up, touch up the tripod.

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759192 - 03/26/13 09:12 PM

Nice 60mm's Johann. Please no more 5mm orthos. I may not be able to handle it.

Any photos of thumb screws for a Unitron 30mm finder?

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5759195 - 03/26/13 09:14 PM

Now it is time to get another Unitron Dave

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759276 - 03/26/13 10:09 PM

I`m sure another one will find me sooner or later

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5759378 - 03/26/13 11:08 PM

Was mailed out today. Three of them. Priority mail

Post Extras:

gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759677 - 03/27/13 07:44 AM

Three of them.

Your the man Johann.

I can probably sell the other two for like 200 a piece.

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5759799 - 03/27/13 09:04 AM

If you do I want $100 back for each

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5759831 - 03/27/13 09:26 AM

Gorgeous scope Gerald

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759835 - 03/27/13 09:28 AM

"I see I have been too generous allocating 40mm unitron eyepieces."

Post Extras:

terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

Reged: 05/29/12

Loc: Over the river and thru the wo...

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759841 - 03/27/13 09:32 AM

Quote:

Therefore I raise you three of these

Terra

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5759852 - 03/27/13 09:38 AM

Quote:

"I see I have been too generous allocating 40mm unitron eyepieces."

Hmmm! if it worked for Terra, maybe it will work for me

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5759867 - 03/27/13 09:49 AM

Quote:

Dave

Has the 16" meade starfinder tried to kill you yet?

Actually No, its been sitting in the corner of my garage, the primary has been boxed up for a looong! time waiting to be sent out to be recoated. It keeps taking a back burner because i keep ending up involved in other deals

Post Extras:

nightpilot
member

Reged: 02/16/12

Loc: Southern Suburbs, Chicago

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5760471 - 03/27/13 02:33 PM

Wow, what a beautiful scope. That light is the tip in.

Bob

Post Extras:

starman876
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 04/28/08

Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5760485 - 03/27/13 02:39 PM

Nice try Dave

I somehow ended up with a lot of 40mm eyepieces. I am down to just what I need now. Running low on 4mm, 5mm and 6mm now. However, I have plenty of everything else

Post Extras:

xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5760723 - 03/27/13 04:22 PM Attachment (11 downloads)

Picked up today two new Polarex eyepieces I hadn't seen before: 9mm Plössl (0.965") and Orthoscopic 25mm (0.965").
Both of them in the original box.

Post Extras:

xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5760726 - 03/27/13 04:22 PM Attachment (8 downloads)

The 25mm family

Post Extras:

Fomalhaut
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 08/16/08

Loc: Switzerland

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5760745 - 03/27/13 04:31 PM

Xavier,

Which one is besting the others and how?

Chris

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xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Fomalhaut]
#5760759 - 03/27/13 04:36 PM

Very good question, Chris.
Just found the new eyepieces today and it's cloudy. Not the possibility to try them.
Will test them and let you know.
Xavier

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gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5761333 - 03/27/13 09:17 PM

Xavier
Looks like there were many more possibilities in the Polarex line than Unitrons. Very nice collection you have aquired.

Keep us informed, please !

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5761357 - 03/27/13 09:29 PM

In a nut shell, whats the history of Unitron and Polarex ?

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gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5761407 - 03/27/13 10:00 PM

In a nut shell, Unitrons were distributed and sold to mainly the United States. Polarex To Japan, Europe, etc. Both were for the most part, of the same manufacturer Nihon Seiko. Thats the nut shell. More detail is beyond me. There is some interesting Unitron history at the Company 7 web site. Also here is a good link to some Polarex stuff.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5761456 - 03/27/13 10:31 PM

Thanks! Gerald, i wasnt sure how Polarex fit into the mix.
Guess that explains why i dont see that much Polarex stuff here in the states.

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xavier
super member

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Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5761719 - 03/28/13 03:31 AM

The relationship between Unitron and Polarex isn't so clear for me. Two months ago I had a talk with the Belgian distributor for Polarex. The import and distribution was rather chaotic. Depending on the economic situation between 1950 and 1980 they ordered and received the telescopes and the accessories from the Netherlands, the US or directly from Japan.
It happened that they received the telescopes and accessories in separate shippings. And had to assemble the kits they self. For a specific period they made the cabinets locally in Belgium.
That's the reason why the Polarex telescopes sometimes have other accessories than the Unitron. This also explains that we find in Belgium and Holland unbranded Polarex telescopes and accessories.
The relationship between Polarex and Unitron isn't so straight. It's all about economics.
I think that some more research would be interesting.

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xavier
super member

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Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5761724 - 03/28/13 03:38 AM

Thank you, Gerald,for the compliment.
I'm just very lucky to discover new items...
Like already written here: it's like a drug :-)
Xavier

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5761902 - 03/28/13 08:30 AM

Thanks for that information Xavier.

I agree, more research on this would be interesting..

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xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5762188 - 03/28/13 11:04 AM

Ordered a set of this eyepiece adapters to test the 0.965" in binoviewer.
Anyone experience with this adapters?

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5767326 - 03/30/13 06:05 PM Attachment (6 downloads)

I finally finished all that needed done to this scope and put her back together.
As soon as i get a little rest and some clear skies its time to catch a few photons with this jewel..

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767327 - 03/30/13 06:06 PM Attachment (7 downloads)

Pic #2

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767341 - 03/30/13 06:13 PM

Beautiful scope Dave.

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5767345 - 03/30/13 06:18 PM

Wonderful restoration job. An absolute beauty of a scope.

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5767346 - 03/30/13 06:18 PM

Wonderful restoration job. An absolute beauty of a scope.

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5767347 - 03/30/13 06:18 PM

Wonderful restoration job. An absolute beauty of a scope.

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5767348 - 03/30/13 06:18 PM

Wonderful restoration job. An absolute beauty of a scope.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5767353 - 03/30/13 06:24 PM

I think Terra really likes it Dave

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5767355 - 03/30/13 06:24 PM

Thanks! Johann, Terra
It was a lot of fun..
Terra, you seem to be stuck in some sort of time loop

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sgorton99
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767391 - 03/30/13 06:59 PM

Nice Nice Nice Nice (4 times like Terra).

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: sgorton99]
#5767449 - 03/30/13 07:39 PM

Thanks! 4 times

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767456 - 03/30/13 07:46 PM Attachment (7 downloads)

The Unihex, forgot to post a image of it after i cleaned it inside and out, and then someone named Tom just reminded me

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767471 - 03/30/13 07:59 PM

I didn't do that on purpose.
Really
Really
Really
Really

Terra

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gelkin
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 09/22/10

Loc: Western, MD.

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767567 - 03/30/13 08:38 PM

Beautiful job Dave. Congrats on a really great scope.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5767583 - 03/30/13 08:44 PM

Looks like you are missing a 40mm

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: gelkin]
#5767599 - 03/30/13 08:52 PM

Thanks Gerald, i appriciate the nice compliment

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5767602 - 03/30/13 08:54 PM

Quote:

Looks like you are missing a 40mm

Sure! rub it in..

Edited by Dave M (03/31/13 09:14 AM)

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5767737 - 03/30/13 10:18 PM

Try more flowers

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Dave M
Postmaster

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Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5768289 - 03/31/13 09:27 AM

Am i correct that the Unitron 40mm is a 1.25" eyepiece ?

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nightpilot
member

Reged: 02/16/12

Loc: Southern Suburbs, Chicago

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5768306 - 03/31/13 09:33 AM

Dave,

What a great cleanup/restore. That is one really good looking telescope. Maybe I missed it in the thresd but what did you ultimately use on the tripod legs?

Bob

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5768344 - 03/31/13 09:43 AM

Yes, the 40mm is a 1.25" eyepiece. That way it fits in the 1.25" holder in the unihex

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terraclarke
Pooh-Bah

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5768345 - 03/31/13 09:43 AM

Yup! For sure, and way cool too

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Dave M
Postmaster

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Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5768388 - 03/31/13 09:53 AM

Thanks Johann..

Thanks! Again Terra..

Edited by Dave M (03/31/13 10:05 AM)

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: nightpilot]
#5768420 - 03/31/13 10:03 AM

Thanks Bob,
For the tripod legs i lightly sanded them, then restained using ( ZAR brand ) oil wood stain #138 Spanish Oak.
The tripod legs are a philippine mohagany, the Zar Spanish Oak was a very very close match to the original color stain.
I finished/sealed with a Minwax Satin polyurethane.

One other thing, the only repainting i did on this scope was to repaint the finder scope. On it i used Krylon Fusion
White Gloss, its a nearly perfect match. Its great stuff on metal, dries to touch after 15 minutes, handle after an hr, fully chip resistant after 7 days, stuff is tough as nails.

Post Extras:

xavier
super member

Reged: 10/31/07

Loc: Belgium

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5768485 - 03/31/13 10:34 AM

Great restoration. The scope and mount look like new.
What about performance?

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: xavier]
#5768811 - 03/31/13 01:31 PM

Hi Xavier, Thank You..
Hopefully i can get some clear sky soon to evaluate its performance, looks like clouds for atleast the next few days.

Post Extras:

nightpilot
member

Reged: 02/16/12

Loc: Southern Suburbs, Chicago

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5768864 - 03/31/13 01:55 PM

Dave,

They look great ... so does the whole scope as I said. I have a model 128C that I need to address the tripod legs on (as part of a cleanup and restore). I think I am going to clean them and see what needs to be done for that. I get the Yips everytime I go to do it. Dont want to mess up.

I will have to bite the bullet and go for it.

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

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Loc: VA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: nightpilot]
#5769005 - 03/31/13 03:03 PM

Those untron legs clean up so well. A good sanding and some clear poly and they look like new.

Post Extras:

Dave M
Postmaster

Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: nightpilot]
#5769012 - 03/31/13 03:07 PM

Thanks!

Mine was fairly scratched up and some of the original finish was worn off, so i decided to match the original stain color and refinish.
Its some fairly soft wood so i just lightly sanded with 150 grit useing a vibrating palm sander and followed with 320, then stained. Wipe any excess stain off with a dry rag, let them sit overnight, then wipe them down with a tac cloth and spray with the clear polyurethane the next day.
I was kinda surprised how thin and easy the original stain came off. Now i feel that they are properly stained and sealed..

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5769022 - 03/31/13 03:09 PM

I was surprised also how easily they clean up. An hour or two and you have legs that look like new.

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DanWray
member

Reged: 10/11/06

Loc: Denver, CO, USA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5784303 - 04/07/13 04:56 PM

Sorry I am coming late to this discussion. I have a 131-C with a green coated lens #C504. I didn't get the boxes with mine and the solar screens are missing. Are screens fron any other Unitrons the same size? What are the dimentions?

Dan

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Dave M
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Reged: 08/03/04

Loc: N.E.Ohio

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: DanWray]
#5784940 - 04/07/13 10:25 PM

Hi Dan, I`m not sure if any screens from any of the bigger scopes would work or not, I can measure my screens tomorrow for you. Someone else may chime in as to if any other screens will work.

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Dave M
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Reged: 08/03/04

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5786122 - 04/08/13 02:13 PM

Dan, the dimensions of my solar plates are
5 7/8" Wide x 7 1/2" High, That`s for the metal plates only, doesn`t include the little bracket that slides onto the rod.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5786163 - 04/08/13 02:34 PM

same size as the ones I have

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DanWray
member

Reged: 10/11/06

Loc: Denver, CO, USA

Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5787234 - 04/09/13 01:25 AM

Thanks guys. Now the question is, is that size unique to the 131-C.

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Dave M
Postmaster

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: DanWray]
#5787505 - 04/09/13 07:31 AM

That I don't know, but Johann or someone else might be able to answer that question..

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5787733 - 04/09/13 10:08 AM

I think they are the same size as they 4" ones. Because of the way they mount on the 131C and the 131C being a larger diameter OTA. I will measure when I have a chance.

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akman1955
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5789716 - 04/10/13 07:54 AM

wrong Johann.. the 4 inch unitron sun screens are fatter and do not fit and the 75mm unitron sun screens are to small in length. the compact sunscreens are totally different diminsions and only fit the compacts. Set a 4',3' and compact sunscreen side by side and you will see..

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starman876
Carpal Tunnel

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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: akman1955]
#5789727 - 04/10/13 08:04 AM

Ooops. I will have to do that. Thanks for the heads up Clint

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: starman876]
#5789934 - 04/10/13 10:25 AM

So bottom line, all plates are different and specific to the model telescope they came with ?

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5790626 - 04/10/13 04:08 PM

well, to those that know the difference

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terraclarke
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5791521 - 04/10/13 10:58 PM

Not different for each model but for each OTA diameter because since its a straight thru and not a right angle projection system and thus requires a perforated shade screen, the distance from the center of the rod to the center of the drawtube varies with the diameter of the OTA making it necessary to have a variety of sizes.

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: terraclarke]
#5792028 - 04/11/13 09:59 AM

That's what I figured, but wasn't sure if the rod brackets were different lengths.. Thanks!
Hopefully this all helped answer Dan`s ?

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Dave M
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Re: Unitron 131-C new

[Re: Dave M]
#5792472 - 04/11/13 02:13 PM Attachment (6 downloads)

The Unitron cap for my 131-C had a crack in the side, I fixed it with some epoxy, but since I had 3 solar aperture reduction caps I used one to make another dust cap. Just used a 1 1/4" chrome hole cap and it works great.
I could have Unitron engraved into the hole cap.

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starman876
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Re: Unitron 131-C new