CLA for Minolta?

[FilmOnly]

Hello, all,

I have a Minolta XE-7 that I gather could use a CLA. Who could you recommend someone for a CLA for Minolta gear? I have used Eric Hendrickson for my Pentax equipment and APS for my Nikon gear, and have been happy with the work in both cases (especially with Eric's, as his prices are reasonable). Is there anyone who specializes in Minolta gear?

 

[phirehouse]

i have used this guy with positive results, fast turn around time, too.

http://www.garryscamera.com/

 

[Chazzy]

I had a good experience with Garry's Camera also, and the price was low for the work that was done. Another shop had told me that the camera couldn't be repaired economically due to corrosion, but that didn't slow Garry down and the repair plus CLA came to about $50.

 

[FilmOnly]

I appreciate the comments. I have used Garry, and while his price was reasonable, I noticed a few scratches on the camera when it was returned. I have avoided him since this happened.

I am becoming less confident in camera CLAs and repairs. There is a listing of camera repair businesses at photo.net. Nearly all of the ones I viewed had mixed reviews, even APS, who has recently serviced my two Nikon FEs. Overall, there are some very negative comments there. I hope all holds up well with my FEs, and will continue to accept suggestions for a Minolta CLA.

I also noticed that some have a turnaround time of a few weeks or even months. I would not even think of sending one of my cameras to such a place. At least APS got my Nikons done in 2-3 days.

 

[LyleB]

I also noticed that some have a turnaround time of a few weeks or even months. I would not even think of sending one of my cameras to such a place. At least APS got my Nikons done in 2-3 days.

I think, generally speaking, the old adage applies (there are a few exceptions):

FAST - GOOD - CHEAP (choose any two)

I've had good luck with both Garry's and KEH for my Nikon gear. They both service most makes. Garry's is by far the least expensive, but all three of the cameras I've sent them have returned repaired and in beautiful shape. Did take a couple of weeks and their stated turn-around was 3-4 weeks.

KEH has been quicker on two bodies I've sent them, also did more than the repairs requested and returned the cameras in excellent condition. Their prices were substantially higher, with twice the warranty length.

I will continue to use both until personal experience tells me otherwise.

 

[FilmOnly]

To clarify and reiterate my thought: a week or two is fine, but a few weeks or a couple of months is just too long.

 

[jime11]

Havel camera did a cla on a Vivitar Series 1 28-90 & repaired a Bronica manual metered prism and both work as new .

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