I have been viewing this forum for a while, and I have now decided to get a Nikon D80. I want the D80 because my father-in-law has old Nikon lenses (non-AFS) that he will let me use, so I ruled out the D40/40x. My "accountant" will allow me to buy the D80 once I have saved enough, but I stated looking at Cameta Camera's ebay auctions because of the recommendations on this forum. I noticed they had a body-only package that are "demos". The description notes that there may be some "cosmetic" issues, but that the cameras are tested by Nikon and are fully functional, and Cameta Camera offers a 1 year warranty on them. Anyone ever bought a demo camera? Any thoughts on doing so or not?
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"Demo" Nikon D80
- Thread starter deanfinder
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I bought a D50 "demo" from Cameta. It was packaged in a Nikon refurb box with all new accessories (book, cables, battery, etc) and the body itself looked brand new. There was not one scratch on it. I've had it for quite a few months now and haven't had any problems so I would definitely recommend it.
Good Luck
Good Luck
I haven't bought a demo camera - but as long as the warranty is satisfactory, and the seller has a good reputation, I wouldn't hesitate (if it were me).
I would make sure the warranty covers the items you expect it to cover, both parts and labor, for the time period specified.
I would make sure the warranty covers the items you expect it to cover, both parts and labor, for the time period specified.
They're selling store, not factory warranties, so I'd trust them about as far as you could throw the UPS truck that delivers them. That said, if the feedback is good, I don't see why you should doubt them. Good luck with the cam, I've had D80 and its great.
I wouldn't hesitate. I think DSLRs are probably treated quite well by people trying them out. A pesky salesman is probably standing close by, watching the customer while s/he tries it out. I doubt anyone is going to throw that thing around, and wouldn't be surprised if it was in perfect working AND physical condition......"as new".
Cameta is a very good company to work with. I have bought from them a few times and have had no problems. As for a demo unit, they have been refurbished by Nikon, and basically are brand new. I'm sure if anything they couldn't have much more than 500 shutter actuation's on it.
Just be careful if calling in to finish the order sometimes the salesmen offer extra stuff, which can add up, if anything pick up a Mack warranty as it is well worth it.
Just be careful if calling in to finish the order sometimes the salesmen offer extra stuff, which can add up, if anything pick up a Mack warranty as it is well worth it.