Lenses

Finnegan

Finnegan

Well-known member
I bought a 35mm adapter (SGblade) about a week ago and in preparation for its shipment, I'm putting together a list of lenses that I want to outfit it with. My question to you is: how do you go about buying lenses? Is Craigslist/Ebay reliable? I've been to my local cam shop, which is a Samy's Camera, but even their used Nikon lenses are on the high end as far as prices go. But, I'm reluctant to buy lenses online since you can't physically see the lens and therefore are going on the seller's word that there are no scratches on the lens itself or the lens body. So, what do you guys do? Where do you look for and buy lenses?
 
Get them from KEH.com, there bargin section is great I got all my lenses there. Everyone was immaculate and even had the original stickers the Nikon lenses shipped with. Craigslist is unreliable at times, and ebay is questionable. Getting them in person or from a online dealer is the best way.
 
Congrats on the SGBlade purchase, great product...

I guess I've been pretty lucky to date... I bought my Nikon 17-35mm/2.8 through Craigslist and my Nikon 28-70/2.8 and 80-200/2.8 zoom from eBay. I always research the sellers on eBay and they must have 99+% feedback with 100's or 1000's of users over several years or forget it... I've never bought a bum item on eBay yet using this criteria and I am a really anal buyer (no scratches, dings, etc...) and I email them in advance telling that I am really picky and not to waste my time or negative feedback may result...

Craigslist is somewhat better in a sense that you can physically inspect the item for sale and usually get a good read on the 'character' of the person you're buying from.

KEH.com is also a great source to buy lenses although it's been awhile since I've done so.

Me personally, I look for:

1) No mold
2) No visible scratches or dings on lens body
3) No internal dust, scratches, cracks or chips in front or rear glass
4) Rubber rings aren't worn down from excessive use
5) Check the serial number for US or gray market and use that in possible price negotiation
6) Focus and zoom rings operate smoothly without sticking or excessive play
7) If inspecting in person; fidgety, nervous or over-talkative or under-talkative seller :-)

Good luck in your quest!
 
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Leo's advice is right on, Personally, i hate online sales but I did buy 8 lenses from Ebay, all were great except one, but if you but via PAYPAL and they offer a return policy you are protected, make sure the seller guarantee as described, ask questions before bidding. Here a link below for checking serial numbers against. Cheers


http://www.photosynthesis.co.nz/nikon/lenses.html
 
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