When I first entered the astronomy hobby, the pier mounted Unitron Model 166 was a breathtaking sight to behold. Those elegant back page advertisements captivated me, and I poured over them endlessly, harboring the long-term dream of one day owning one of these magnificent instruments. My copy of The Messier Album was co-authored by an astronomer who used this very model to sketch deep sky objects, which only deepened the romance. It was that emotional connection—more than logic or practicality—that fueled my desire to someday call one my own.
I first encountered an advertisement for a Model 166 on Cloudy Nights (posted May 20, 2024) last year. It appeared to be essentially complete, equipped with a Super Unihex and the standard weight drive. However, closer inspection of the photos suggested that the optical tube assembly (OTA), photographic guide scope, and finder had been repainted. The counterweight shaft also appeared incorrect—longer than original specifications.
A friend of mine, Mark Kuba, recognized the opportunity and quickly purchased the telescope, driving to Arizona to retrieve it. Unfortunately, inadequate packing and protection during transport resulted in vibration damage. I still remember the phone call when Mark told me what had happened, my heart sank with dread and disappointment. He moved the instrument into his garage with plans to repair it, but tragically, Mark passed away later that year.
Another of Mark’s friends, Darren Drake, subsequently acquired the astronomy equipment from the estate and graciously agreed to sell me the telescope.
By the time the Model 166 reached me, it was in fair condition. Damage occurred to the weight drive, the front objective assembly, and several other OTA attachments. Numerous fasteners were lost—some due to vibration during transport in the trailer, others between unloading and storage.
As part of the acquisition process, I began the careful task of identifying, sorting, and reassembling the various components needed to reconstruct a complete Model 166. Many parts had been intermixed with other telescope hardware, requiring a thorough inventory and detailed inspection to ensure that only original and appropriate components were used. Fortunately, my familiarity with Unitron models and the evolutionary changes throughout their production run made it relatively straightforward to identify the correct parts.
Once the telescope was transported home, I began cleaning the components and determining what was still missing. Replacement fasteners were sourced online, and I chemically blued the brass slotted heads to achieve the correct black finish. I also obtained a stainless-steel threaded counterweight shaft of appropriate length. While functional, my long-term goal is to locate an original Unitron shaft—though these are exceedingly difficult to find without parting out another mount.
Today, the telescope is proudly displayed in my living room. Long term plans include having the OTA, photographic guide, and finder professionally re enameled in the standard Unitron white. The mount and weight drive will eventually receive a complete disassembly and cleaning, though that work can wait until other ongoing projects are completed.
Someday, I hope to build a roll off roof observatory to house multiple instruments, with the Model 166 occupying a place of prominence. After decades of admiration, setbacks, and perseverance, it feels especially fitting that this elegant instrument has finally found its way home.
James Ehlers, March 2026