MPB used gear

[Pieter12]

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.

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.

 

[RezaLoghme]

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.

 

[Pieter12]

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.

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.

 

[lawnerd]

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.

 

[RezaLoghme]

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?