William Royer Loc: Kansas

I have (frequently) looked for and maybe purchased a used camera or lens from various retailers in the US, where I live (now in a non-urban area with few photo dealers). Because of those many experiences, and feedback from others, I have a good sense of how realistically/conservatively the specific retailers with whom I’ve worked assess the condition of their used equipment for sale. Basically, I know from whom I’m comfortable considering a purchase.
What brings up this post at this time is that I have recently been casually looking for a specific Nikon lens — their 50mm f1.8 ‘Pancake’ lens that I understand was originally made for Japanese customers. They are the ones whose serial numbers start with 2…… (not 4, or Series E, or others.)
My problem is that I have seldom seen one for sale from any US retailers with whom I’m familiar and comfortable. But, there are numerous offerings on eBay from Japan, and they are “rated” — such as Mint, Near Mint, Excellent, etc. And always with the disclaimer that the rating is ‘in the opinion of the seller’. The seller may have a 100% favorable rating, or not. Fair enough. But, I don’t have any further knowledge about (nor where to find it), nor had any experience with that seller — like their reputation for experienced, knowledgeable, conservative assessments, etc. Nor, obviously, can I carefully look at the item in person. Nor do I know how much customs duties might add to the cost. And, it seems like it might be a hassle and costly if a lens had to be returned (if allowed).
So, I’m basically looking for any guidance you can offer on how to proceed through the maze. Wish I knew who had were the B&H, KEH, Adorama, Robert’s, et al in Japan! Is there something I‘m missing that would help give me comfort on the above concerns?
Thanks in advance.

mwsilvers Loc: Central New Jersey

Keep in mind that NikonUSA won't service any Nikon products bought directly from Japan even if you are willing to pay for service or repairs. You are basically on your own.

William Royer Loc: Kansas

Yes, thanks. Certainly something to remember — particularly with a 40 year old lens. Also part of the reasons I’m focusing on accurate condition assessments.

nikon_jon Loc: Northeast Arkansas

https://www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator. This website has a calculator to determine duty fees when buying from various countries.

William Royer Loc: Kansas

Great! Thank you!

JimH123 Loc: Morgan Hill, CA

I have bought a number of older lenses on eBay from japan, and they were every bit a good as the description. Perfect condition.

As for duty prices, I never saw them as I was charged exactly what the listed price + shipping was stated as.

Orphoto Loc: Oregon

You should know that most Japanese photographers are terribly protective of their equipment and will characterize equipment condition extremely conservatively. The one things to be on the lookout for is any mention of fungus given the high humidity levels.

This is especially true of the stores selling lenses. Far more reliable than many if not nost American individuals.

Eir

I recently purchased a Nikon 80-200 zoom lens on EBAY from a seller in Japan. He rated the lens as "excellent+++", that pretty much sold me on the lens. When it arrived it had the worst lens creep I've ever seen! Needless to say.......I was very disappointed!

Doc Mck Loc: Terrell,Texas

I have bought several items of equipment(lenses) from Japan as prices were reasonable, no import duties, free shipping, etc.. I have no had to have anything repaired ,so far, but, if repair. Not available here, would not hesitate to send to Japan for repair. Their rating system is very accurate. Their shipments prompt, the quality was as stated if not better.

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

I prefer Japanese ebay sellers far more than USA ebay sellers.
98% so far have been better quality than USA sellers they all have been fast and fair and I have confidence in them.
USA sellers generally leave a lot out and hope that you will not spot the problems.
KEH comes closest to Japanese quality in rating their products and they are a pleasure to deal with.
The problem with KEH is their inventory is lacking compared to Japanese ebay sellers and I seldom find what I want with them anymore compared to in the past for some reason.

Stu A Loc: Portsmouth, Ohio

I have bought several lenses, and 2 cameras from Japan. Have not been disappointed yet. All were accurately described. I also only buy from sellers with high feed back scores.

Quixdraw Loc: x

Have bought from Japanese sellers several times, gear always excellent - better than described. No duty paid. Roberts Used Photo Pro is much the same in terms of descriptions, the gear nearly always better than described. Another point in Roberts favor, 180 day guarantee. In many purchases, only one problem, a bad battery charger. They sent a new one no questions asked and had me toss the bad one.

pendennis

I've had tremendously good experiences with Japanese sellers. Before the prices of medium format cameras started skyrocketing here in the U.S. I found a Mamiya 645 Pro Tl, extra back, 80mm f/2.8, and extension tubes for $500. When they arrived they looked like they just came out of the boxes. I've used them for three years, without problems.

I've bought numerous pieces of used gear and I've never been charged a penny of duty. I believe the base limit is around $800.

The used film equipment supply is starting to shorten up a bit, though.

MDI Mainer

My experience too, both from Japan and Hong Kong.

William Royer Loc: Kansas

I am a major fan of UPP. Have Excellent+ experiences with them -- on both buy and sell sides. My first place to look/contact.