Help deciding on a Zodiac

[cancruiser]

Hi All,
first time poster, long time lurker.
I am interested in buying a Zodiac, and came across this one. I am not familiar with Zodiacs, albeit reading quite a bit about them online so I'd appreciate some advice from from Zodiac owners regarding this specific boat.

It's model 1247, looks in good shape (didn't see it in person, it is ~ 2 hrs away), but what worries a bit me it is made in 1978. Not sure how much I can trust it with this age. The seller said there is only one patch on the keel where it gets inflated, but no patches anywhere else.

What do you think (click for larger photo)?

[Fenlander]

All I can offer is that my first Zodiac was a a near identical model in similar great condition and made in 1972. That was about 8yrs ago so roughly speaking it was the same age then as the one you're considering now.

There wasn't the slightest issue on the seams and it held air fine.

A lovely quality classic SIB.

[cancruiser]

Thanks Fenlander.
Your boat looks mint! What model # is it? Also, how long it is?
The one in the ad I am considering says it is 12 ft. from tip to end of pontoons while it is 6.25 ft from the transom to the front inside. Are these similar is size to yours?
Cheers

[Fenlander]

Mine was a Mark 1 and I think the shortest at about 3m or just over. I can't see an image of the data plate in my photo library so not sure of the model code.