This is ridiculous and i can't believe i'm actually admitting, but i purchased this telescope more for looks than anything else. I'm an interior designer and have long wanted an old-fashioned looking working telescope for one of the rooms in my home, but i was not looking to spend on an antique. I am delighted to say that this telescope has become MUCH more than just a decoration in my home-- I have seriously developed an interest in astronomy since buying it. The optics are absolutely stunning, and even much better than I was expecting (even considering the more expensive pricetag, which I assumed was more the result of the telescope's materials). For an excellent, versatile, aesthetically beautiful telescope, I would personally recommend this!