My question is, where can I purchase a demo/refurbished M8 that has a warranty? Does Leica sell refurbished cameras? Also, if I bought an M8, can I purchase warranty protection? What is the best avenue to go about purchasing one these days?
Sorry if these questions are a bit sophomoric--I only shoot film, but I'm seriously thinking about making the transition. I simply don't want to end up with a lemon that turns into a money pit.
Thanks guys.
Unless things have changed recently, Leica always had "DEMO"s, nowhere was it written "REFURBISHED". DEMO's were exactly that, cameras that were carried by reps or used at photo workshops/seminars/trade shows. I bought an MP DEMO and it had a shutter fault that would've easily been spotted if the camera had gone through some sort of refurbishing process. I've bought Canon and Nikon REFURBISHED and those were stamped with a seal and re-packaged in a differently-marked box.
Even if Leica's DEMO's aren't given more than a quick once-over and a wipe down, they do come with a 1 year warranty from Leica. Just make sure you get an official Leica DEMO with the blue warranty card with red sticker dot...not an "unofficial" demo with a "store warranty".
Leica does not sell extended warranties, and since the M8 is not serviceable (other than some of the mechanical components) other than by Leica, an aftermarket warranty like a Mack warranty isn't going to be of much use. However if you did buy a plain old used M8, you could send it in for an overhaul (or one of the upgrades). It has always been Leica's policy to warranty the entire camera for a year when they do an overhaul. I'm not sure what that would cost on an M8 vs the potential risk for that year. Perhaps the cheapest upgrade (eg the LCD sapphire) might be a better bargain.
As for getting a lemon/money-pit, once that year of warranty is up, you will either have to have it re-overhauled or go on your own risk. The cost of a new shutter or sensor or major electronic board is quite expensive.
Dealer-wise, there are a number of good ones in the US. Of all the small independent dealers who are still in business, I like working with Tony Rose (Popflash) in California, but that's just my experience. As a midwesterner I'm off-put by NY attitude...a personal bias of course. Even KEH is an authorized Leica dealer, so they can and do sell official demos, and their customer service has been great. It's more about finding what you want, and price.
