Re: [Leica] Buying Used Gear

[Bill Satterfield <cwsat@istate.net>]

Caveat Emptor. Be sure you have a meeting of the minds before you 
purchase. Be aware that using the mail to defraud is a Federal offense.

John Collier wrote:

>After seeing some unhappy purchase postings and requests for the Spanish
>Inquisition, I would like to offer the some advice. Please feel free to add
>some of your hard learned lessons; or, to heap scorn on my head.
>
>Please, please, please make sure you arrange an inspection period when
>buying used gear. One person's ex++ is another's very good. A two or three
>day no-hassle inspection period can go a long way in preventing simple
>misunderstandings from escalating.
>
>Read descriptions carefully as we often automatically associate certain
>pieces of equipment together. If it does not say it is included then
>probably it is not. It is always better to ask rather than finding out the
>hard way.
>
>When you buy a used camera, things can go wrong that the buyer was unaware
>of. If something happens within a week or so of your taking possession of
>the camera, then do involve the seller in solving the problem. Offering to
>pay half of the repair is many times a reasonable thing to do. Eventually
>you have to realise that the camera is now yours and you are responsible for
>maintaining it.
>
>I always budget in a CLA with ANY used gear I buy. Occasionally I do not do
>the CLA but I always expect it will be needed. Of all the used gear I have
>purchased only one or two items have not ended up going for a CLA within a
>years time. I use my gear, if you only look at yours, then perhaps CLAs are
>not required that often.
>
>Finally, if you want a camera in Like New condition and Like New function
>with a reasonable warranty period; please buy new and spare us the
>complaining about your used camera in used condition with limited warranty.
>
>John Collier
>
>
>
>
> 
>
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>



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