Prototype DUAL-SAD-CGEM. 

     I have been contacted by several people that are interested in finding a solution to the new CGEM saddle.  Although I am pleased Celestron decided to make a saddle that accepts Losmandy D-Series dovetails it does have a few problems.  First of all the saddle is powdercoated.  Even though powdercoating is more durable than spray paint it is no match for an anodized surface.  The production models will be black anodized with orange knobs (easier to see in the dark).  The second problem with the saddle is it does not accept Vixen style or V-Series dovetails.  Unfortunately Celestron and many other major telescope companies have been releasing numerous OTA's with the Synta or V-series dovetail bars attached.   The DUAL-SAD-CGEM will allow you to use just about any OTA with a D-Series dovetail or a V-Series dovetail.  Physical dimensions 7.75" x 5".  The CGEM-DUAL-SAD will retail for $169. 

     The DUAL-SAD-EQG saddle with its "hockey puck" adapter will also work with the new Celestron CGEM.  I was pleasantly surprised to find that the EQG "hockey puck" fits perfectly on the inside of the head.  Physical dimensions 7" x  4".  The price of the DUAL-SAD-EQG is $129 (includes "hockey puck" adapter). 

      The knob below this image shows the prototype knob replacement.  Although the knurl is a much simpler machining operation, I wanted to provide something that would really make the new CGEM stand out.  Not only will it stand out but the ergonomics have been significantly improved.  The CGEM Knob Replacement kit will replace all of the knobs with rosette style knobs.  I will offer both black anodized and orange anodized.  Price still needs to be determined.