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Dealer loyalty to customer


likalar

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I bought locally, and used my M9 without significant problems for nearly 2 years. As the warranty was about to expire, I brought it to the dealer for a look at 2 minor problems. . He looked up my purchase info and sent it to New Jersey for a sensor cleaning (2 subtle oil spots since new), and an adjustment of the vertical alignment of the rangefinder (slightly off since new?). Two good things I want to share:

 

1. The dealership handled the write-up, packing and shipping expense. This saved me some time, the packing hassle and quite a few dollars. The dealer (Keeble & Shucat, Palo Alto) explained this was all offered because I had purchased the camera from his store. Nice!

2. Leica NJ tested all systems, made some adjustments, and even replaced the selector wheel assembly without my asking. I hadn't even been aware of a problem with the wheel. In fact, only when I tried the buttery smooth new wheel did I realize the original was somewhat stiff. Great, and there was no charge at all.. Thanks, Leica Service NJ.

 

So, given a choice, consider the above when you decide from where to make a major Leica purchase. A good dealer can be a big asset when it comes time for customer service. Ask your dealer about the services he offers. Some may have different policies.

 

Larry

Larry

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Good news Larry.

 

I think this sort of thing is often overlooked when people are asking about where to buy a lens or body. Locally is always best. Here in the UK my local Leica dealer behaves in exactly the same way, just take the problem item into the shop and everything is dealt with, all you need to wait for is the phone call when it returns from Solms.

 

Steve

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A local Nikon dealer treats me the same way, unfortunately he sells little Leica and has almost no new stock. I had to go out of state to a long time reputable dealer. But just talking to them, I can tell they will take care of me. And their used cameras had been to New Jersey for a check up , screen replacement, and were in very nice condition when received.

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(Keeble & Shucat, Palo Alto)

 

Keeble and Shuchat. Jeff Alford, the Leica guru there, is a class guy.

 

A good dealer makes all the difference; fortunately, based on my personal experience, there are some good ones from coast to coast in the US. And Leica NJ is quite capable and responsive as well.

 

I find that an important key, whether with a dealer or with NJ, is to establish a trusted contact in advance of any purchase or service. Often it's as much about the person involved as the company.

 

Jeff

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One of my college jobs was in a Leica Camera Store (Photocine in Philadelphia circa 1969/1970). The owner spent days patiently teaching me about the equipment as well as the philosophy and history of Leica. But he spent even more time showing me how to treat his customers - lessons I was able to apply to my own businesses and customers.

 

Old George Knechtsberger would say, "The customer can buy a camera anywhere and often for less money but if you make his purchase feel special, he will always come back to you."

 

Thank you George…

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*Toasts to local dealers*

 

I've always made my major gear purchases locally, taking the time to build working relationships with the stores I buy from. Sadly, customer service is a lost art with the commoditization of consumerism. I've worked with them for years, they know my kit and shooting style so the advice is always appropriate, and I often get deals as good as what I'd see buying online. Plus, like others have said, issues are dealt with swiftly and easily.

 

It may not be for everyone, but I wouldn't have it any other way.

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