MPB used gear

RezaLoghme said:

I have nothing against MPB. I personally believe that its better to buy pre-owned(!) gear in a shop, if possible. New gear - different story.

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For example, there's no local shop for me to buy Rollei 6000 gear or pretty much any of the other orphan camera lines I use. Yes, it is a difference story with new gear--that is generally available locally and at competitive prices.

We all have different parcels to carry. I assume you have already got a nice 6000 kit, how often to you need additional items?
For a Rollei 6000, MBP will not be much of help.

RezaLoghme said:

We all have different parcels to carry. I assume you have already got a nice 6000 kit, how often to you need additional items?
For a Rollei 6000, MBP will not be much of help.

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True, but Rollei 6000 gear shows up more often at Roberts or other used camera sites than it does at a local shop. Sometimes, I may just feel the need for a back-up or a fresher version of something I already have. See my thread about GAS side effects.

As far as MPB (or KEH) goes, you can score some great deals on like new and excellent recent gear. I have no idea where it comes from beyond maybe some over-extended photographers or studios, maybe demos. But I doubt I would find it in one of the few brick and mortar shops except maybe in NYC.

The only bad thing about MPB is their selection of film cameras is very limited, compared to KEH. I think they focus on digital more than film. Other than that, they are my go to if they have what I am looking for.

Regarding shutter count. If given a choice between identical cameras in identical cosmetic condition, I would go for the camera with 10,000 clicks vs 300,000 clicks every time. Wouldn’t you? Not knowing the shutter count before buying is a gamble in my book.

MBP is selling modern pre owned cameras. Not collectors items (with some exceptions - they do sell Leica rangefinders).

Why should they bother listing obscure GDR SLRs for example?