On Tue, 4 Sep 2001 11:46:35 -0400, you wrote:
>I'm going to my first camera show on Sept. 16th.
>I'm looking forward to the chance to look at lots
>of equipment. I was wondering, am I likely to get
>ripped off there, or is there a chance the dealers
>will be fair?
>
I've stopped going to the Dallas area camera shows. The
equipment seems overpriced. We have shows twice a year
here, and I've seen the same dusty, tired old equipment
two or three times. But prices on 2CR5 batteries and
outdated film remain good.
Shows are only as good as the dealers. It's possible
dealers in one region might give better deals than
dealers in another region.
Think of them as used car dalesmen - some have better
merchandise than others, may offer better prices, may
stand behind their gear better, etc. Others simply are
inexperienced but have good intentions, and might just
be a little hungry. The lowest dealers will gouge
buyers for every penny they can, even if the equipment
is junk.
If you don't already know the going price for an item,
you certainly will be allowed to pay too much.
Watch for people arriving with camera bags. They may be
trying to sell some stuff to the dealers. Ask around,
make them an offer. I got a mint black K2 with SMC
50/1.2 for $150 from just such a person before he ever
got into the show. It was a very good deal, for me at
least.
--
Happy Trails,
Texdance
http://members.fortunecity.com/texdance
http://members1.clubphoto.com/john8202
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