A Change In How We Procure Scopes?

[Carbon Brush]

For quite a few years we have been able to buy (bank balance permitting) better scopes with more bells and whistles. Prices have (in real terms) tumbled in the last 10 years. Anything that doesn't have a fully guided mount and computer link is regarded by some as primitive.
When I bought my MN78 & D6 goto mount, it was (and still is) a really good piece of kit. But I think some would regard it now as a bit old, and the mount agricultural. Something you have fond memories of (like a Morris Minor) but wouldn't want now. If I had tried to sell it, I'm sure it would be passed over by many.

However, do this years events mean we ought to be be polishing up our old kit?
The virus has caused all sorts of supply problems on the new kit market. Normally a shortage of new kit would allow us sell our 'last years model' more easily. I have heard a few comments about small items being sold used for the new price. But with the travel restrictions, how do we sell a 10" dob or decent mount? An eyepiece or small refractor by reputable carrier is easy enough. But anything big or heavy is a problem buying used until we can travel again.

Would anyone venture a guess as to what the next few months might bring to the used astronomy equipment market?
I can only see people staring at unwanted large scopes, wondering if you can make a big OTA into a kitchen bin.
Just as many staring at photos of scopes that are only 50 miles away with an idle car on the drive and a ban on leaving the area.

[Hallingskies]

I think second hand equipment prices will soar given the virus-related shortages that will only be exacerbated by our exit from the EU. My concern is this will prompt a rise in thefts from observatories once certain folk work out there’s a lucrative market. Get you security and equipment marking sorted while you can!

[Astrodad]

Yes as above I'd worry once thieves start to realise what some of this gear can be worth and start targeting people who have obvious signs of observatories in their gardens. I also think once the whole covid thing is over that second hand market will be flooded with used gear as people will start going out again and lose interest. 

[Carbon Brush]

Interesting thought on the theft aspect. This is one reason why I chose to make my observatory look like a shed with pergola alongside (to support the rolled off roof). That and being told that a 'bottle recycling bank' was not really first choice for a garden building. ?