I'm considering upgrading my Opticron HR bins for something a little better. I have regularly purchased 2nd hand photographic equipment & had no difficulties and was wondering if the same could be applied to optics.
I was hoping to get either a pair of Swarovski or Leica without having to sell my body ! (not that its worth much) and wondered what sort of savings could be made or if this route is fraught with danger. My intention is to buy from a dealer rather than privately or on e bay
Hi Taxboy (a worrying name).... A big BF welcome to you from all the moderators and admin here.
Secondhand optics are generally a reliable buy.... just check out the basics like focus and look at lenses for significant problems. Have a look to see if there are any foreign particles inside the objective lenses ... shouldn't be seeing much if they are waterproof and Nitrogen filled.
The very top binos don't come up on the secondhand market too often.... dealers take them in when someone upgrades, but there's no real upgrade route for owners of Leica BN, Swarovski EL or Nikon HG.
Regards,
Andy
Taxboy
Here are some useful links:
http://www.kayoptical.co.uk/used_equipment.shtml
http://www.londoncameraexchange.co.uk/search.php
They will give you an idea of how much dealers charge. Sometimes dealers charge near new prices. Sometimes they charge very reasonable prices. It depends on the location of the shop and how sought after an item is.
Psst: I'm selling a Nikon 8x42HG. See the used equipment forum. Oops. Shameless!