Question about Red Mark

[rgk]

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I am considering the purchase of a new S2. A well regarded dealer offered me an S2 with a red mark, approx 4mm, that appears after the serial number on the exterior box, interior box, and on the test certificate. I recently purchased an M lens with similar marks from another well regarded dealer. He explained that the lens was new but hade been tested by Leica for one reason or the other.

 

The S2 body is expensive so I am looking for an explanation for this mark from someone with no financial interest in the purchase. I wonder if such a mark would affect my ability to purchase the premium extended warranty. The camera that I am considering is an S2 not an S2P.

 

Thank you for your responses.

[Stuart Richardson]

Leica sells a limited amount of stock with minor blemishes, typically offered with decent discount. It only applies to cosmetic blemishes, they do not do it for errors that would affect function, or if there was significant cosmetic damage. I would talk to the dealer, but generally this stock is offered with the full Leica warranty, and treated as new.

It makes sense -- if there is only a small mark, why would they scrap the whole camera?

 

Edit: This appears to be something different -- this is not a unintentional mark, right? But one that was put there on purpose? If that is the case, I would just call Leica USA and ask them. They should be able to offer an explanation.

[glenerrolrd]

The dealer should be able to explain the warranty situation. Leica released a small number of refurbished S2 s about 60 days ago. I was told the only way to identify one was by a mark on the box.

 

But if the dealer will give you the serial number Leica in NJ will give you the camera history . They track every S2 .

 

If you get one let me know I live in Sandy Springs and have an S2 .

[wattsy]

The marking usually signifies a factory 'demo' and the item is typically sold at a 10% discount with the same packaging, accessories and warranty benefits as the equivalent new Leica item. I bought two M lenses this year that were 'marked' in this way and both are 100% indistinguishable from new (cosmetically and functionally).