TheSkySearchers

I just picked up one of these for a good price. Always wanted one when I was a kid. I was impressed how sharp the optics were looking at different objects during the day. I admit I have a soft spot for these old Towa refractors. Considering the low cost they perform very well. I haven’t had a chance to get it under the stars yet but am looking forward to it. I purchased an Antares .96 to 1.25 hybrid diagonal so I can use my 1.25 eyepieces in it. Curious if anyone here has or had one and how they liked it.

Nice! I have a similar model, a Jason 324 Saturn. I agree with you on the Towas; I have 5 fracs and 3 reflectors made with their optics, love them all. Quite frankly, I really like mine. I made a post the other day about it, pretty much sums it up for me

As for the diagonal, I found the drawtube was the same OD as a 1.25" diagonal, so I just made this for it; bit of thick plastic, duct tape to hold it together, and hose clamps for tightening. Makes for a field of view at 1.25" instead of .965". It's kinda basic, but it's worked for me for a few years:




Also, you'll find the focuser knobs are probably a bit small. Putting jar lids on top of them really helps with fine focus.




Just my two cents for what it's worth. As usual, not much

Enjoy your new scope and post a pic if you can

All the best,

A very nice refractor, I hope you get a chance to get it out under the stars soon

Some good ideas; I will post a pic or 2 soon. I am excited to get this thing out. I am still casually hunting for a nice 3 or 4” Unitron but in the meantime def will keep busy.