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Baader Z(AP) Dovetail Clamp - 200mm
The Baader Z(AP) Dovetail Clamp is a 200mm clamp for Z-style (Zeiss) dovetail bars. It holds the bar with two pressure clamps and carries the mounting standard for Astro-Physics 400, 600 and Mach 1 mounts, and for the Astro-Physics 900 with the additional adapter #1401155.
A 200mm Clamp for Zeiss Dovetails on Astro-Physics Mounts
This clamp is not a universal fit: it holds Z-style (Zeiss) dovetail bars and is not compatible with Vixen. It mounts on Astro-Physics 400, 600 and Mach 1 mounts, and on the 900 with adapter #1401155.
The Z-Dovetail Profile: A Dedicated, Non-Standard Interface
Unlike the more common Vixen or Losmandy standards, the "Z" profile is a distinct dovetail shape required by these specific mount manufacturers. Attempting to use a different style of dovetail will result in an insecure and potentially damaging connection. This Baader clamp holds the bar with two pressure clamps.
Z(AP) Dovetail vs. Vixen & Losmandy Standards
It is crucial to distinguish this bar from the two dominant industry standards to prevent incorrect purchases. Baader states that this Z(AP) clamp is not compatible with Vixen bars.
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Vixen-Style ("V"): A narrower, 44mm wide bar with a pronounced V-shape. This is the most common standard for smaller, lighter telescopes.
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Losmandy-Style ("D"): A wider, 3-inch (76mm) bar, typically used for heavier instruments.
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Zeiss/AP ("Z"): A 40mm profile of its own, held by this clamp. Baader states it is not compatible with Vixen.
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What mounts is the Baader Z(AP) 200mm Dovetail Clamp compatible with?
Baader gives the mounting standard for Astro-Physics 400, 600 and Mach 1 mounts; the Astro-Physics 900 needs the additional adapter #1401155. The clamp takes Z-style (Zeiss) dovetail bars and is not compatible with Vixen.
Will the Baader Z(AP) clamp accept my Vixen or Losmandy-style dovetail bar?
No. Baader states it is not compatible with Vixen, and it is made for 40mm Z-style (Zeiss) dovetails, not the wider 3-inch Losmandy bars.
Why do Zeiss and Astro-Physics use a different dovetail standard?
High-end mount manufacturers often develop proprietary mechanical interfaces to ensure maximum rigidity and precision, tailored to their specific engineering goals. The Z-dovetail standard was created to provide a highly secure connection for their instruments before the Vixen and Losmandy styles became de facto industry standards.
Is the Baader Z(AP) product a dovetail bar or a clamp?
It is a clamp. Baader lists it as 'Dovetail Clamp Z, 200mm for Zeiss/Astro-Physics' (Bar or Clamp?: Clamp): the female part that holds a Z-style dovetail bar with two pressure clamps.
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| Length |
200mm |
| Dovetail Profile |
Z (Zeiss / Astro-Physics) |
| Net weight (kg) |
0.61 |
| Bar or Clamp? |
Clamp |
| Dual mounting |
No |
| Screws included? |
No |
| Clamping System |
Dovetail clamp |
| Design |
Z (40mm) Zeiss/AstroPhysics |
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This product is a single dovetail clamp. No additional accessories are included.
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No manual or software is available for this product.
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Baader Planetarium Warranty
