Z8, difference between USA and international models? (Page 4): There is no physical difference between the items made by Nikon for different regions. There may be a software difference...

Ctrclckws

coolhanduke wrote:

I did not realize what a gray market camera was until I went to get it repaired at Nikon. You would think that if it bared the Nikon name they would work on it. I mean how different can it be?

There is no physical difference between the items made by Nikon for different regions. There may be a software difference to support various language and localization options.

NikonUSA knows what serial numbers were assigned to their distribution network. There was at one time predictable patterns to determine which subdivision is responsible, but as markets have shifted in size, those patterns are less discernable.

If the serial number is not on the list, don't touch it.

Henry Nguyen Loc: Houston, Texas

Ctrclckws wrote:

There is no physical difference between the items made by Nikon for different regions. There may be a software difference to support various language and localization options.

NikonUSA knows what serial numbers were assigned to their distribution network. There was at one time predictable patterns to determine which subdivision is responsible, but as markets have shifted in size, those patterns are less discernable.

If the serial number is not on the list, don't touch it.

Thanks

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Ctrclckws wrote:

They set the rules. If they repair a grey market item, then there is probably a legal argument that they have accepted responsibility for the proper working of the item. They don't want to open up that liability.

Liability issues like this almost killed the private plane market, until legal rules limited the long-term liabilities of the manufacturer. Piper and Cessna, etc were held responsible for 50+ year old planes.

I had to laugh at this thinking. But, we'll let community member LE Page give a better clarification in a response copied from another thread (expand to see the full details):

larryepage wrote:

Legitimate dealers in the United States do not buy... (show quote)

Ctrclckws

Thank you CHG_CANON.

Appreciate the additional information, it's always about the money, isn't it.

MDI Mainer

keywest305 wrote:

Does this apply to buying Tamron lenses also. I see Z mount 35-150 for 1999 but some offer it for 1600. I wonder if Tamron honors Grey market for repair

No.

https://www.tamron-usa.com/support/gray_market.html

LarryFB Loc: Depends where our RV is parked

CHG_CANON wrote:

If you trust this brand new camera has all the kinks worked out and you'll never experience a warranty-covered issue, nor need a repair during your ownership of the body, save some money on the international grey-market version. If you need the peace of mind (aka insurance) again a warranty-covered issue or repair, get the properly authorized US-market version.

Don W-37 Loc: Bangkok, Thailand

larryepage wrote:

The battery charger that comes with that camera has a built-in plug to fit the power main. Good chance the international version charger won't fit our outlets, if it is included at all. Also verify that it contains an English language manual and can display English menus.

I live in Bangkok and buy my Nikons (D7100, D750, D850) here. All came with a 2 prong, US style charger which works from 100 - 230vac, 50 or 60 hz. My menus are all set to English.

Your problem is that Nikon will not repair, even if you pay, international model. So, if it need repair, your only choice is an independent repair shop IF they can get any needed parts or send it overseas for repair.

My advice is to buy the USA model if you live in the States, and the international model if you plan to live overseas.
Good luck,
Don

ppkwhat Loc: Gibsonton, FL

Henry Nguyen wrote:

Hi, I am buying Nikon Z8 but there are two different models, USA and international. USA one is more expensive. Which one should I buy? Thanks

USA Model - The "International" is a grey market camera with no technical support or repairs in USA if it brakes.

larryepage Loc: North Texas area

Don W-37 wrote:

I live in Bangkok and buy my Nikons (D7100, D750, ... (show quote)

Yes you are right. See my post that Oaul quoted above. I am closely related to misers and dollar bill squeezers and have seen the trouble that causes. Despite that, I believe that folks should have freedom to make dumb choices as long as they are willing to accept all possible consequences. I do not believe that freedom includes whining about NikonUSA's choice not to provide any support for cameras they do not have any responsibility for.

BebuLamar

Don W-37 wrote:

I live in Bangkok and buy my Nikons (D7100, D750, ... (show quote)

You are in Thailand where Nikon made most of their cameras. Do you see price any lower there than in the USA? For example how much is the Z8 over there?

rehess Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA

larryepage wrote:

Yes you are right. See my post that Oaul quoted above. I am closely related to misers and dollar bill squeezers and have seen the trouble that causes. Despite that, I believe that folks should have freedom to make dumb choices as long as they are willing to accept all possible consequences. I do not believe that freedom includes whining about NikonUSA's choice not to provide any support for cameras they do not have any responsibility for.

I see US price as a form of insurance. Insurance is required of cars because others could be hurt, but here, only your money {and a working camera} is at risk. We are constantly hit by TV ads from companies who want to protect us from home /car repairs; I choose to bear that risk myself, but a non-moving car is an issue for me alone.