ULTRA RARE 1980's C16 Orange Celestron Telescope

The Celestron C16 is a rare, ultra-large 16-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain observatory-class telescope originally introduced in Celestron’s early commercial lineups in the late 1960s to 1970s. While 1980s consumer models typically maxed out with the C14, custom or legacy large-format orange optical tubes from this family were built for fixed institutional piers rather than portable field tripods.

 Rarity: Unlike the ubiquitous orange-tube C8, the C16 and larger C22 models were produced in very small quantities strictly for fixed-site institutional installations rather than individual amateur ownership.

Transition to Black: By 1984, Celestron transitioned its primary production line cosmetic aesthetic from the classic orange tube design to a sleek black-and-orange accent colorway, making surviving 16-inch orange units exceptionally scarce artifacts of the company's early era

History: I purchased this telescope here on Astromart several years ago from a gentleman in Northern California. He shipped it as well as a special film camera attachement piece and all the originals cases to me in Fort Worth, Texas. His reason for selling was his age and lack of use. It is a very heavy cumbersome item and requires serious muscle to handle and setup. He explained he used it to photogragh a special comet event in the 80's. It was unclear how much use it had since then. I transported it to my second residence in Alpine, Texas and set it up in the condition you see in the photos. I never actually used it. The transport bolts were in place during all shipping and I removed them at my current location. It is missing the correct bolts to attach the mount to the tripod. I found some that worked. It is stored under cover in my garage and has been now for several months. 

Condition: I have never actually used the telescope therefore alignment and other issues that may or may not be a factor are unknown. You should come prepared to protect it in whatever manner you see appropriate. I have one of the original cases. The balance of those were discarded. It is fairly complete with spotter scope, rotor motor, counter weights, cables, etc. It looks nice and is not beat up or scratched/ damaged to any major degree.  I won't ship it or help move it. Its on a dolly I fabricated and can be rolled to your transport vehicle. I can provide tools and assistance to disassemble it. I have the transport bolts that were installed when I received it to lock the lense assembly. 

Price: The good news is because I know literally nothing about this, in good conscience I can't put a price on it. It could be very rare and valuable treasure or it could be a total worthless piece of garbage.  Since I have no way to evaluate it, I am giving it away. That simple. All I ask is that if I make the 400 mile trip to west Texas to meet you and hand this to you that you actually show up. Please respect the offer and my time as well.

My hope is someone that can appreciate and enjoy this as well as provide the type of care it may need will want it.