stank@uiucdcs.UUCP (08/10/84)
#R:decwrl:-316100:uiucdcs:20900006:000:1440
uiucdcs!stank Aug 10 15:27:00 1984
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I agree about the usefullness of Shutterbug Ads (S.A.). I have dealt
with a number of its advertisers and have had no complaints.
There are a few things that should be mentioned:
(1) Unless the camera you want is pretty rare (e.g., a Leica
single shot) you'll probably find, in a single issue, several
firms and/or individuals selling that camera. By all means
compare prices: individual sellers, in particular, sometimes
put high prices on what they're selling. Whether or not they
are merely leaving room to haggle, or whether they're bitten
by the 'if it's over 10 years old, its an antique' bug, is
not clear. Just remember to read the whole issue.
(2) As a side point to (1), don't neglect to read the ads
in the section 'antique and classic cameras'. Even if you
want a fairly mundane piece of equipment, it may be listed
therein.
(3) Don't expect a very long guarantee if you're buying from an
individual. You can expect, in such a case, that the camera
will work when it gets to you. If it conks out 3 weeks later,
you may be out of luck. The companies which advertise in the S.A.,
on the other hand, do usually offer some sort of guarantee.
Stanley Krolikoski
University of Illinois at U-C
..!pur-ee!uiucdcs!stankhagerman@friday.DEC (what is hip?) (08/14/84)
x Do you know about 'Shutterbug Ads'? This is a monthly advertising paper that has a few dealers of new equipment, lots of dealers of used equipment, and lots of individual ads. There is a wide selection of subjects, including large format. I've had very good luck buying through their advertisers. They use a rating system for used equipment which is: new - new equipment mint - perfect but pre-owned excellent plus - similar to new (I bought an ex+ lens from one of their advertisers and it was indistinguishable from new except no box or warranty.) ex - mechanically perfect ex minus - mechanically perfect very good - in working order good - possibly broken, not attractive fair - worn or broken I recommend that anyone considering buying anything photographic look at an issue of this before spending bucks. Address: Shutterbug Ads P.O. Box F Titusville, FL 32781 $13, 1 year (12 issues), 3rd class mail, U.S. only $20, Foreign countries, surface note: no I don't own stock in their operation. DHagerman
jansz@houem.UUCP (J.ELLIOTT) (08/14/84)
I second the motion to try "Shutterbug Ads." As both a buyer AND seller, I've found the ads informative and all the people I've dealt with to be honest and helpful. As a side issue, besides the ads themselves, also check into the possibilty that a camera or "photographica" show may be coming to your area. The shows are not only a lot of fun, but you'll also get to handle the merchandise [un- less it's that gold-and-alligator-skin Leica kept under the bullet-proof glass!]. I've gotten several cameras at shows and have always been happy with my purchases. Some of the exhibitors are just trying to clear out their attics and won't even take a check; however, the big dealers make their living doing the show circuit and take anything, including trades and plastic money!