Quote:
Originally Posted by andybarton
At the end of the day, there's nothing to beat developing a relationship with someone you trust. If it's a local guy and you can see the whites of his eyes, then so much the better, but if they are remote, and accessed via the phone or 'net, then that's OK too. Provided you know what you are doing...
|
Andy - if I still lived in London I would absolutely endorse this sentiment. However, living in Stockholm I've found over the years that the number of available items - especially used - is neither broad nor well-priced.
In comparison with what's on offer at even the largest Leica dealer here, looking at a site like Leicashop or Leicameister is akin to entering Aladdin's Cave.
In addition, even private sellers here value their scuffed and dented M3s at about the same level as PhotoArsenal - plus some extra.
When I'm in Copenhagen I'll be popping into a couple of places there that have both a wider selection and better prices than here in Sweden - but with our disastrous currency I'll have to consider where my money is best spent.
I know this lecture on supporting local dealers tends to come up regularly - I'd just say that it's well to remember not all of us live close to a metropolis replete with friendly dealers and plentiful stock.
Mani
oh and PS: great list so far!!