Bargin Leica cameras at KEH are they tested?

[kknox]

Has anyone bought a bargin rated Leica M from KEH, and do they work like they should? Or will I need to send them in for a CLA? Just a few dings or losts of wear?

 

[colyn]

I've bought many bargin rated cameras/lens from KEH and have never had any problems..

 

[cmedin]

I would not worry about getting a broken/damaged camera from KEH -- they are always fair to deal with.

However, any used Leica with an unknown past should really get a CLA. You are talking about cameras that might not have seen service in decades. It's not that expensive and will give you many worry free years of use.

 

[Benjamin Marks]

I have had issues with KEH Bargan grade equipment from time to time and they promptly made it right. However, it did make me think that they don't dig too deeply when they get merchandise in the door. Most of the time it isn't an issue. I have no idea whether I am right or not about this -- on the other hand, there is no reason that equipment in Exc. condition can't have an electronic or other issue. I'd buy from them with confidence.

Ben

 

[JNewell]

Even LN- Leica M cameras are not tested for RF accuracy or shutter accuracy. You should be assuming a CLA in the price. However, their return policy is very good, if shipping costs and turnaround time are not an isse.

 

[robinsonphotography]

I've read about people getting BGN Leica Ms from KEH that are in great condition and function perfectly without a CLA, or getting ones that are a bit beat up and need a CLA pretty badly--I think it's luck of the draw with them really. They are supposed to be very good about returns though and working with you to get happy, which is an upside when you aren't sure what you're getting.

 

[ItsReallyDarren]

I do think that KEH gives a once over when a camera comes in to check its functionality, either its working or its not. How well might depend on the person who is actually doing the examination. Doesn't KEH grade items based on physical appearance when compared to when new?

It's sometimes the luck of the draw, but the one thing about KEH is they do make good on their part. You have the option of asking for a replacement, repair, or refund. At worse if you don't like it you can always send it back. Sometimes they only have one item in stock so if you don't like it your pretty much out of luck. Inconvenient and annoying but at the end of the day you still get the money you paid into it back. (minus the shipping, ups makes a buck out that..)

 

[david.elliott]

If the item was misgraded, then they will refund your shipping. I have bought a couple bargain items that had to be returned due to the fact that they werent fully functional. One AIS lens that had the rabbit ears bent out of shape entirely. And one canon rf lens that had fungus and etching in the glass. Both were bargain and should have been ugly, so shipping was refunded.

KEH has a good return policy.

 

[Thardy]

Even LN- Leica M cameras are not tested for RF accuracy or shutter accuracy. You should be assuming a CLA in the price. However, their return policy is very good, if shipping costs and turnaround time are not an isse.

At the prices they charge for EX and better you would think gear would work perfectly.

 

[Ronald M]

I have seen them and Adorama buying at local camera shows. The lens is checked for internal cleanliness and function mechanically. They are not put on a device to check resolution.

It then goes to a customer. They will be happy to repair/replace if something is wrong

 

[Nokton48]

I just bought from them a chrome shuttered 500mm F8 Hasselblad Tele-Tessar, in BGN condition. The shutter won't open at 1/30 and faster. David Odess won't fix it, because he dsoen't have the special tools. I am inquiring at Hasselblad USA, and Essex Camera Repair. If I can't get a CLA, I will return it. They have paid my shipping (and return shipping) on other items that weren't listed correctly, so we will see. Obviously can't use the lens as-is.