Steady Hand
Offline
• • • • • •
Upload & Sell: Off
|
SOLD SOLD SOLD to Mike.
UNI-LOC System 1700 Tripod + B30 Revolving Base Camera Platform Ballhead, + 180 Degree Joint, + Strap
_____________________
PRICE REDUCED PRICE REDUCED PRICE REDUCED
MAY 30th NOTE: I have REDUCED the price by $50 so you save a total of $250 OFF the current new price you would pay the USA distributor! Such a deal!
______________________
Price below.
Specifications:
Maximum Working Height = 68.75"/
Folded Length = 31.25"
Weight = 6.6lbs
My Unit’s Condition: Excellent – Almost Like New (-) 9.8/10
Hardly any signs of wear or use. Used 95% indoors in a studio. The black paint finish is almost perfect with just a couple of minor scuffs that are hard to see. It is so nicely made and looks so “fresh” you might think it is new when you first see it. The very tip of the soft rubber non-slip spikes on the end of the legs show the most wear and that is minimal. Those can later be replaced (about $15) if you desire, but they have a long life ahead of them. I am confident you will be very pleased with the finish and condition. I am.
Here is what I have and how much it costs TODAY if bought new direct from the distributor:
S1700 System 1700 Tripod
NEW 2009 Price (tripod alone) = $350 (This price DOES NOT include the ballhead and Joint and Strap shown below in MY system configuration.)
NOTE: This tripod model is called a "System 1700" because it has the ability to add different things to it AND to take it apart to use the components for other purposes. So, it is a "System 1700." BUT, I have added components to the basic System 1700. My own configuration is a complete "system" (and System) and I am selling it WITH the listed items, so no breaking up the system or the System.)
Added System 1700 Items:
1. SAJ 180 Degree Angle Joint = $105
2. 30RBHCP Ballhead Series 30 with Revolving Base and Camera Platform = $215
3. SCS Carrying Strap for Tripod (UNI-LOC) = $25.00
__________________________________________________________
TOTAL VALUE NEW (April 2009 Prices direct from US distributor) = $695
MAY 30th NOTE: MY PRICE is $50 less than before!
Buy Mine for Only = $445 Shipped and Paypaled. You save $250!
My Price is the TOTAL PRICE and means you just pay that and the item is delivered (CONUS, via UPS Ground) AND insured AND I pay the paypal fee!
___________________________________________________________
Steady’s Notes:
Here is one of my favorite pieces of gear. It is so nice I am very reluctant to part with it. But, because I have 6 tripods and am downsizing much of my studio related gear to prepare for an extensive international trip, I just can’t keep it. This is the “Famous” UNI-LOC tripod. It is a real “black beauty” of engineering design.
It is a marvelous piece of engineering concept, design and craftsmanship. This is an aluminum tripod and very sturdy. Its greatest strength is its flexibility of positioning and configuration! I have put 47 detailed and captioned photos of this outstanding tripod in a special UNI-LOC SALE folder on my zenfolio site.
Here is the link to my UNI-LOC folder wtih 47 photos of this tripod: http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/p595620608
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p301326219-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p90937561-4.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p533119611-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p24876546-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p384252062-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p284236831-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p116559284-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p104622633-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p72094551-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p4062905-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p83920052-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p66631240-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p483914859-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p114848669-3.jpg
This tripod can go HIGH (camera up to 70") and VERY LOW as shown here:
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p385165502-2.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p68809495-2.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v7/p395472473-2.jpg
This tripod is really outstanding for several situations and types of photography. Here are a few short notes as I see it.
Here are a few photos from Uni-Loc (manufacturer) (these are NOT photos of my unit) showing just a few of the uses:
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p438774218-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p470680921-3.jpg
http://steadmanuhlich.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p475468629-3.jpg
Macro Work OUTSIDE
This tripod has several design features that make it outstanding for macro work in the field. The legs are sealed and can be submerged in mud, muck, and water. So if you like to get your feet wet in marshes, this is a great tripod. The 1700S unit I have has legs that have a sealed lower leg length (to the lengthening knob) of 20” so you can easily use these in muddy, marshy or wet areas where those dragon flies and other beasties like to lurk. In addition, the long and easy to move center column/arm can be extended at ANY angle so it can extend horizontally or up, or down to reach those special subjects. I have a couple of photos linked below that show this type of tripod in use in the water. NOTE: I never used this tripod at the beach/ocean or in the water. I bought it for indoor use (95%) and for “dry” outdoor photographs of flowers and plants. So it is in excellent condition. Here is my recommendation: if you are a macro “bug guy” who likes to follow bugs to the marshes and water or if you are someone who likes to get close to water or marsh creatures (waterfowl), then buy this pod and have some fun!
I don't have any hesitation recommending this style type or make of tripod.
I am convinced that IT can help a photographer get more better images because of its unique abilities and ease and speed of use.
One of the advantages is the long Arm (boom) design. I want ALL my tripods to have that from now on....unless I am doing video work where a center focus with pan ability is useful.
For Macro I think it is ideal. In fact, I think this design using the Arm and Joint offer many advantages over a traditional design. Want an example? You can extend that Arm INTO a bush to get close to the subject (insect or flower) rather than having your camera stuck on the top of set of legs (and perhaps further away from the real subject because the legs get in the way).
I can only suggest that you try one.
Put some weight on the bottom 'hook" and exercise good techniques.
That is what I would do. 
Astro Work:
I also got this with another idea in mind. I watch the stars with big binoculars. So this type of pod with it’s horizontal arm and unique design would be very good for watching the stars with binocs. Simply lie back in your lawn chair and position the arm/binocs while having the tripod NEXT to you (beside the chair). Enjoy.
NOTE: I have a few photos of this tripod outside next to a van, so you can see it in multiple positions, from HIGH to LOW. With legs extended or “short.” With the camera on the ballhead, or at the opposite end of the arm on the Joint. About 90% of the time I used this tripod with the legs in the shorter configuration, so I could set up my pod with just about 2 seconds with a simple twist of the UNI-LOC lever! Very fast setup! With the camera at the end of the arm/column and with the legs extended, the viewfinder is above my eyes at about 73” high! Very TALL. So it can get high when needed, or drop down to just about 2 inches off the ground when needed low (see the linked photos).
Studio Work and INDOOR Macro
I do more INSIDE macro work than outside. So I used this tripod to hold my camera above artwork, books, paintings, small objects and still-life items. Because the center column/arm can be positioned at ANY angle, it makes it very easy for working with “table top” subjects. You have to try it to understand but when you do, it will be immediately apparent to you why this design is so helpful. I have many tripods. But this one is my “go to” tripod for indoor work in a studio and for working with all kinds of subjects. In fact, after using this type of tripod with the extending arm (easy to move and position) I consider all other types of tripods “awkward” and “clumsy” and “slow” and “limiting” in comparison!
The Joint
One of my favorite features is this 180 Degree “Joint.” Don’t miss this. It is at the opposite end of the arm from the ballhead. I know most folks on a forum like this are “ballhead” focused. That is because they typically are the only place to put a camera. Not on this tripod! On the UNI-LOC 1700 (with this Joint) you have THREE places you can attach a camera quickly. This is really an extension piece added to the center column/arm. It makes a BIG difference in how this tripod works for me. The Joint is so easy to use. Simply turn the center knob a small amount and the joint can swing through its arc of movement and then be fixed at the angle YOU want to use. Attached to the end of the Joint is a knob of solid plastic/rubber that has two threaded screws on it. This is where you can attach a camera or quick release or ballhead. I have to tell you, this is so easy to use. I put a small quick release (Qtop) on one of these screws and use this end of the Joint as much as the other “ballhead end of the column. I can put my camera on this end of the arm within one second! On in one second! Then take some shots (e.g. low) and then in one second move my camera to the other end of the arm and attach it to the quick release I put on my ballhead. In seconds, I can go from low to high and without moving anything on the tripod at all. This Joint gives great flexibility to the positioning of the camera. Very fast to change angles. Easy to manipulate. And, if you take this OFF the tripod, it can be used with an optional clamp to attach to doors, tables and other things. I think every tripod should have one of these! It gives you THREE points of attachment where you can attach a camera. And, for those that like to go crazy with gadgets, you can even take this Arm and Joint and use them with a leg off the tripod and create a folding monopod! Or use this Joint with an optional set of Table-Top legs to make a very nice table top tripod.
The Ballhead works smoothly and has a rotating base. Easy to put a camera on this platform. I actually attach a quick release plate (Qtop) to the top of this ballhead and my camera then comes off in a second. But, even using the included camera platform screw, it only takes a moment (a couple of turns) on the screw to attach a camera. Easy. Smooth.
Here is what the Manufacturer has to say:
Uni-loc System Tripods are designed with greater flexibility in a tripod. While retaining all of the features of the Standard UNI-LOC tripods, at the turn of an Allen key, the System Tripods can be transformed into a monopod, a walking stick, a table top tripod, or adapted in the field to service various other needs that a conventional tripod can't fill. UNI-LOC tripods use a single locking bent-bolt system.
The lower leg sections are fully sealed with non-slip spiked feet and can be immersed in mud and water.
Steady’s Notes on this Design:
Before you buy this, you should know that some people apparently don’t understand how to use this design of tripod and some people have written on forums that they find it difficult to use. So, if you read about this type of tripod on the net you might find people who had some difficulty adjusting to the unique way this tripod is designed. It IS designed very differently from a standard tripod. But that design difference is the beauty of the design and the very thing that makes this design outstanding in so many ways. The closest analogy I can give you is the difference between a standard bicycle and a recumbent bike. When you learn how a recumbent works, you will see the great benefits of the design differences. Same here. It is a design that is different and that difference allows a very different manner of working and ease of use. After working with a number of different designs of tripods and having 6 tripods at this time in my studio, this pod is without a doubt my FAVORITE and puts the others aside (in the closet).
Here are TWO frequent questions I have received while owning this tripod:
1. Is the UNI-LOC company still in business?
Yes! They are still producing the tripod family (line) and have spare parts and INVENTORY in the USA. They have a very friendly and helpful US distributor (the company is UK based). I have spoken with the new owner of the company in the UK and the new US distributor. Both are very nice helpful fellows. This tripod I have, the System 1700 is still the current “top of the line” for this model family and is sold today. You can see the April 2009 prices below. Mine has the “bells and whistles.” And, I can send you a PDF with the entire price list, contact information and the distributor’s name for the other “goodies” or optional items you might want to have if you want to “trick out” your tripod in the future. This tripod was also recently reviewed in a UK camera magazine as a “Best Buy.” And, I found a German photo forum where the fans of this tripod have some interesting photos of the pods in use (usually in a macro in the water setting). Unfortunately, their discussions are in German.
2. Is it hard to adjust the leg position or is it slow to position or set up?
No! It is actually very easy to set this tripod up. I can do it in seconds, very smoothly. Lawn chairs and folding deck chairs are much more difficult to position properly and more hassle to me! But you have to think a little differently and use a little different motion from a standard tripod. Simply put, just loosen one bolt using the bolt handle, then position the legs at the angle you want, then tighten the bolt (about ¼ turn of the handle) and you are done. The first time you try it, I am sure you will be surprised at how it works. But, if you let your mind work with the force of gravity in mind, it will become easy and intuitive very quickly. IF you need to move the tripod higher, just a half turn on each of the leg knobs allows them to lengthen to the length you want. The key is to understand HOW it works with ONE locking motion (that’s why it is called the UNI-LOC). It is very easy to put this in many different positions using gravity to help you position the legs naturally to fit the terrain. Simply support the camera (if it is on the pod) with one hand, turn the lever with the other, and let gravity help put the legs out at the angles that fit the terrain! I think that is the key most people miss, you should use gravity to put the legs out at the angle that allows you to have a level “lock” (center of pod) and that is much easier to do with this design than with a typical tripod. In fact, I think this design is truly IDEAL for use on uneven terrain. Most tripods are more suited for flat, level surfaces. Outdoors, most land has some slope. I really do think it is so easy, it is a design that is intuitive and outstanding. If the person who buys this has ANY questions about how to do it, I am available for “on the phone” coaching.
Other Notes:
The Arm is a standard "feature" of the tripod.
The JOINT is a add on. I consider it one of the BEST parts of the entire design concept. Highly recommended. It is so easy to use and I am surprised other companies have not adopted that design. When I buy another Uni-Loc (and I am sure I will some day when I finish my travels) I will definitely pay the extra to get the JOINT. No exageration here.
Straps?
I could live without it because most of my work is done inside. But, the other day, I had my arms full of stuff outside and had to walk about 200 feet to my car/inside. So I put the tripod in a closed position (by simply loosening the UNI bolt a half turn, letting the legs come together, then tightening the UNI lock a half turn (done in seconds), and simply slung the strap on my shoulder. The pod seemed light to me. So, I can see the utility of the strap now. I did not use that in my studio. I even had it off the pod. But, I would want one now.
__________________________________________________________
General Information and FAQ
Trust and Positive Transactions
I live by the Golden Rule and will be honest with you in all dealings and descriptions. My goal is for this sale to be as smooth and safe as possible. I encourage you to call me if you want or have questions AFTER carefully reading the item description and the following general information. In the past years here I have sold thousands of dollars worth of lenses and other gear here. Only the most recent are listed in my FM Feedback.
Photos of the Stuff
These are very popular items with many photos found on the net to show what they look like. Since almost all of the gear for sale is in Excellent or Like New Condition (Unless otherwise noted) just take a look at a typical photo illustration for the item. I would prefer to not have to take photos of each item. I am a busy pro and don't like to waste time on needless photos. I don't think you will be disappointed in any of the gear. I know I would not and I am very picky. All of this stuff has pleased me and is high quality.
CONUS ONLY
All items may be shipped to CONUS only. While I have shipped items to Canada and Europe before, I just don't have the time or desire to get involved in international shipments at this time. I am in Birmingham Alabama, so local pickup is available too.
Equipment Condition Defined
All items are in Excellent Condition or Like New (unless otherwise noted) or as described in detail below each listed item. Read the detailed descriptions, definitions, and view many photos of each item before deciding to purchase. When I say Like New condition or describe some condition, I mean it looks and functions just as when I first bought it and when first taken out of the box. IF I say Excellent condition, it means it looks almost new with very few signs of wear or use (if any). IF I say Very Good condition, it means it is in very good working condition with a few more signs of use (generally scuffs on plastic tripod features or minor scuffs on aluminum legs and such). IF I say Good Condition it means it works just like a new one but it does not look like a new one. Some of the gear was actually never used or used just once.
What is Included?
Everything I will ship to you (what is included) is described in detail for each item or if you need more info I may have a link to the BH item or you can look it up on BH site or via google. . IF it is not mentioned (e.g. an original box or blank warranty card) then it is not included and will not be shipped.
Firm Prices Means No Lower Offers
For most of the items I went to the trouble to look up the current B&H prices (for comparison) and shipping costs so you can get a sense of how much you will save if you buy these items from me. Please do not PM or Email me with an offer lower than the posted price or Offer as this is my no haggle price and is firm. IF you send me a message with a lower offer, I may not respond.
Returns Policy:
IF NOT AS DESCRIBED; All items are fully refundable IF you ship it back to me within 24 hours of delivery, minus S&H, PayPal or Google Checkout fees. You as the buyer are responsible for insured return shipping with tracking information. Some items are expensive to ship. So choose carefully as I am not going to pay for “buy it to check it out” buyers to play with gear only to return it.
Shipping:
All prices include UPS Ground Shipping (and the Paypal fee). Shipping is via UPS Ground unless requested or stated otherwise. For most SMALL items, I can ship it to you via USPS Priority Mail (2-5 day) for only $10 more. IF you want a small item sent via Priority Mail, include the additional $10 and tell me. This is NOT available at that price for larger or heavier items. Other methods may cost more. You will be given a tracking number if you choose UPS. I suggest insurance for the more expensive items, so add $5 for insurance items that cost over $100. Most shipments will go out the same day or next business day after the payment is received.
Payment Methods:
My preferred method of payment is via Paypal (!) and I will accept PayPal if you are a PayPal confirmed address or a FM member with a good Buy/Sell track record. I will also accept Google Checkout. Paypal is preferred! Since I am paying for the Paypal Fee, I ask you to use that method of payment if at all possible.
Purchase Process
It starts with a short note of “PM SENT” in the original thread. That is so I can see your Buy/Sell feedback history. Then send a PM to me stating you will pay that day. DO NOT send me an email as I rarely check the email account listed on my FM profile. A short PM (Private Message) via this FM forum is the fastest way to reach me. Make sure you clearly identify the item (and mention the item number) and if you want it shipped to you via USPS Priority Mail ($10 extra for small items where noted). IF you are the first to commit to purchase, I will ask you via a PM to send me the Paypal payment to my Paypal address.. Please wait for confirmation from me that you are the winning buyer for the item. I will expect you to pay the Paypal that same day. There may be several members interested in an item and I will sell it to the first person that meets my criteria and preferred payment methods. Please wait for a confirming PM from me before sending any funds. Items will not ship until PayPal funds have been transferred to my bank account. Tell me if you are Paypal confirmed or verified too.
Contact and Clear Communications ASAP
Please send a PM (not an email). You may also call me directly at (area two oh five) 317-7832 and I will try to answer all questions as quickly as possible. I don’t mind phone calls. Given that there are many items, please take the time to view the detailed descriptions. Given that these items may be popular please have patience as I will try to answer everyone's questions (PM or Phone) as quickly as possible. Please do not post negative comments on this thread if I do not have the chance to respond to your PM immediately. I will respond to everyone as quickly as possible given my work and travel schedule.
Edited on May 30, 2009 at 12:42 PM · View previous versions
|
