To answer my own question, I know the answer is "not much".
However, I have a brand new South total station (NTS-325,non-reflectorless) that was only used for development of a data collector driver. It comes with the case, RS232 cable, manual, service kit, etc. I've been keeping it in my closet in case I ever needed it for something, but I honestly can't see me needing it for anything into the future.
I figure it might be useful for someone wanting to use it for laying out patios or something.
The "new" price is 2995$US according to a few websites I've seen, but seems that it has been discontinued. What is a fair price for this type of instrument and the best way to go about selling it?
TW
I'd take it out, run a 4 point traverse, check accuracies against another gun, and write a report about your findings. First and foremost is how well it actually functions in the field.
I can see some value as a display case item or theatrical prop, but know I would never use it until it was proven to be of reliable accuracy.
I will say, I didn't have a very high opinion of Nikon due to the low price until I actually used one. I love the optics and EDM for topo, as well as the light weight. Just because the South instrument is cheap and Chinese doesn't mean it is unreliable until proven to be.
Sounds like a good plan, but unfortunately I don't have any prisms, tripods, other equipment, or access to any other instruments. . . 🙁
> Sounds like a good plan, but unfortunately I don't have any prisms, tripods, other equipment, or access to any other instruments. . . 🙁
loan it to someone who does.:-)
I also have a South instrument setting on my shelf in need of a new battery. I just haven't ordered it yet (It's been 2 years). My grandfather decided he wanted a second instrument so he bought this one off e-bay for somewhere around $3k. From my experience with it -- I really like the machine. It is essentially the exact same thing as a Topcon except for the name. Buttons, colors, functions -- everything the same.
As a dealer...
the resale of the instrument is between $1200-1500, especially since it hasn't been used much. It is a hard sale in the US, however, if you will sell it overseas you may sell it fast. South is one of the largest instrument manufacturers in the world, believe it or not.