Gitzo Ocean Systematic tripod legs

[Wawe]

Hi,

I've been looking for a tripod for the D800 that I'm going to buy in the near future. As it is important for me to be able to use the legs in salt water without worrying too much about the maintenance, I'm now seriously considering this model: OCEAN SYSTEMATIC Series 3 Carbon Tripod Anti-corrosion 4-sec GT3542LOS - Ocean Tripods | Gitzo. I chose the 3 series Gitzo because I'd be able to get a new one cheaper than a 2 series one and the additional maximum load capacity is of course welcome.

So, the question is, has anyone got experience using the product (or ocean systematic series in general)? I'd be interested in hearing especially about the corrosion resistance, since that, for me, is what would justify the ridiculous price premium over the otherwise similar models.

Thanks in advance!

 

[tirediron]

I'm not familiar with these legs in particular, but Gitzo is indeed worth the money. As for corrosion, as long as they get a good hose off in fresh water reasonably soon after they've been in salt, you'll be fine. The grit from sand will be more of an issue than the corrosion.

 

[Wawe]

I'm not familiar with these legs in particular, but Gitzo is indeed worth the money. As for corrosion, as long as they get a good hose off in fresh water reasonably soon after they've been in salt, you'll be fine. The grit from sand will be more of an issue than the corrosion.

I discussed the features with an ocean series tripod owner, who said that he had destroyed a couple of Vanguard tripods in months using them in salt water, but the ocean series model showed no signs of corrosion despite shooting on the coast several times per week for two years. This, even though he reported not taking the legs apart for proper cleaning after exposing them to sea water. As for the sand, the same guy said that the “o-rings on the legs also do a good job of keeping sand out of the joints”. If all this applies to each copy of the ocean series legs, for me, that's a reason to pay the high premium for the product.

By the way, has you or anyone else got any suggestions for ball heads that will last in extreme conditions as well? I've now been seriously considering the RRS BH-55 but have not found any reviews talking about its corrosion resistance or usability in very cold temperature.