What is your experience with Precision Camera Repair in Enfield, CT (Poll)

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-25-2016, 10:29 AM

Precision just called me again and are telling me that the warranty is void because of the tripod foot being broken off, which is why I sent the lens in in the first place. It failed when I had put the lens on a tripod. It had always had a little flex that I never even thought a thing about. Ohh, and the price tag increased to over 500 dollars for the repair! I don't think I will be able to recommend Pentax any more if this is not repaired under warranty.

**UncleVanya** · 10-25-2016, 10:32 AM

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

Precision just called me again and are telling me that the warranty is void because of the tripod foot being broken off, which is why I sent the lens in in the first place. It failed when I had put the lens on a tripod. It had always had a little flex that I never even thought a thing about. Ohh, and the price tag increased to over 500 dollars for the repair! I don't think I will be able to recommend Pentax any more if this is not repaired under warranty.

I don't blame you. Contact Ricoh immediately and calmly explain everything and see what they say. The sad truth is that there are people out there who take advantage of companies and make false claims that makes it so hard for those of us like you who are the victims of this.

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-25-2016, 11:12 AM

I have called and have posted on their facebook page.

**UncleVanya** · 10-25-2016, 11:55 AM

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

I have called and have posted on their facebook page.

Ugh. Here's hoping you get a response. For the failure itself to be called out as the reason you can't get warranty is insane. Tripod foot failed - lens fell - therefore damage is due to fall so not warranty... uh excuse me - doesn't the foot failure indicate a problem with the lens to begin with? Sigh...

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-25-2016, 12:02 PM

Yep, it is circular reasoning on their part.

**UncleVanya** · 10-25-2016, 01:47 PM

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

Yep, it is circular reasoning on their part.

Depending on the type of failure they could be blaming user error. Imagine if the tripod foot was incorrectly attached due to misunderstanding of how to do it. A user could misattach it and then drop the lens and blame Ricoh. Granted the opposite is also true - a faulty foot could fail and Precision could blame the user... hey wait a second...

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-25-2016, 05:50 PM

Originally posted by UncleVanya

Depending on the type of failure they could be blaming user error. Imagine if the tripod foot was incorrectly attached due to misunderstanding of how to do it. A user could misattach it and then drop the lens and blame Ricoh. Granted the opposite is also true - a faulty foot could fail and Precision could blame the user... hey wait a second...

Here's the thing. When I mounted the lens on the tripod this stayed and the lens fell off and dropped into a camp chair. Glad it didn't damage my camera. I had never removed the tripod collar,a dn I don't even know if you can with this lens. It was shocking to see this happen. There are no signs of any damage anywhere on the lens barrel, hood, or mount. There are no scratches or chips anywhere.

Attached Images

View Picture EXIF

View Picture EXIF

**UncleVanya** · 10-25-2016, 05:54 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

Here's the thing. When I mounted the lens on the tripod this stayed and the lens fell off and dropped into a camp chair. Glad it didn't damage my camera. I had never removed the tripod collar,a dn I don't even know if you can with this lens. It was shocking to see this happen. There are no signs of any damage anywhere on the lens barrel, hood, or mount. There are no scratches or chips anywhere.

Jimminy Cricket that's insane. I guess the first thing I would be saying to Ricoh is that they likely need this part in Japan to analyze. Metal fatigue in a part that young spells potential major trouble if this is wider spread than a single lens. They need to examine it and determine if the metal meets specs etc.

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-25-2016, 06:07 PM

Originally posted by UncleVanya

Jimminy Cricket that's insane. I guess the first thing I would be saying to Ricoh is that they likely need this part in Japan to analyze. Metal fatigue in a part that young spells potential major trouble if this is wider spread than a single lens. They need to examine it and determine if the metal meets specs etc.

I would be fine with that as long as I get my lens back, repaired or replaced under warranty. It may have had something happen during shipping but I don't know. I wish someone with Ricoh was on here and could pass this along because frankly I am a bit mad at this happening when I was on a photography trip, the first time I was really going to give this lens a good workout, and how the repair is going with it. This is AFTER I spend 53 bucks to send it in to them at my expense to be repaired. This is my most expensive lens, and I hoped I'd get many years of use from it.

mee · 10-25-2016, 06:14 PM

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

I would be fine with that as long as I get my lens back, repaired or replaced under warranty. It may have had something happen during shipping but I don't know. I wish someone with Ricoh was on here and could pass this along because frankly I am a bit mad at this happening when I was on a photography trip, the first time I was really going to give this lens a good workout, and how the repair is going with it. This is AFTER I spend 53 bucks to send it in to them at my expense to be repaired. This is my most expensive lens, and I hoped I'd get many years of use from it.

That is infuriating indeed. But, if I were in your situation, I'd get some rest, compose myself, and try to get someone on the phone at Ricoh tomorrow. Then, after that is done, explain the metal fatigue of the part and the damage wasn't due to your mistake or negligence but a direct effect of the (Pentax made) part failing prematurely.

I hate to say it.. but it seems Precision techs are throwing out the 'impact damage' card a lot recently.. and I'd surmise that is because it is getting expensive for them to keep replacing these items under warranty (in many cases whole lenses). Much cheaper to lie and get you to pay for it.

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-25-2016, 06:17 PM

Originally posted by mee

That is infuriating indeed. But, if I were in your situation, I'd get some rest, compose myself, and try to get someone on the phone at Ricoh tomorrow. Then, after that is done, explain the metal fatigue of the part and the damage wasn't due to your mistake or negligence but a direct effect of the (Pentax made) part failing prematurely.

I hate to say it.. but it seems Precision techs are throwing out the 'impact damage' card a lot recently.. and I'd surmise that is because it is getting expensive for them to keep replacing these items under warranty (in many cases whole lenses). Much cheaper to lie and get you to pay for it.

I called Ricoh last Friday over it and expected a call today on it. I also posted on their FB page as well, though I may message them. I should not have to pay over $500 (the estimate grew) to repair a factory defect in materials and a very expensive lens. I may call them back tomorrow.

mee · 10-25-2016, 06:28 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

I called Ricoh last Friday over it and expected a call today on it. I also posted on their FB page as well, though I may message them. I should not have to pay over $500 (the estimate grew) to repair a factory defect in materials and a very expensive lens. I may call them back tomorrow.

Yes, I agree. That's why I'd call them tomorrow and explain the situation politely. Warranty should cover issues with workmanship of the product.

asamimasa · 10-25-2016, 09:48 PM

Sent my K-1 in for AF module fixing (all AF lenses failed beyond microfocus adjust range) on 9/30. Entered repair on 10/3. Called a week later for a status update, they had ordered parts for the dial issue mentioned here. Glad to know they were addressing issues before it rears its head. Called yesterday (10/24), the representative said it was strange that no movement had been recorded on it in a while, and now I await to hear back...

**geomez** · 10-25-2016, 10:01 PM

Originally posted by VoiceOfReason

Here's the thing. When I mounted the lens on the tripod this stayed and the lens fell off and dropped into a camp chair. Glad it didn't damage my camera. I had never removed the tripod collar,a dn I don't even know if you can with this lens. It was shocking to see this happen. There are no signs of any damage anywhere on the lens barrel, hood, or mount. There are no scratches or chips anywhere.

I have that same lens and carry it by the collar

I will tell that the collar on that lens is removable, though more difficult to remove than the collar on the DA* 300. IMO it doesn't seem like a better design, based on the fact that yours failed and mine gets wobbly on occasion, needing removal and tightening.
Good luck. I hope Ricoh makes the right choice for you.

**VoiceOfReason** · 10-26-2016, 08:52 AM

Originally posted by geomez

I have that same lens and carry it by the collar

I will tell that the collar on that lens is removable, though more difficult to remove than the collar on the DA* 300. IMO it doesn't seem like a better design, based on the fact that yours failed and mine gets wobbly on occasion, needing removal and tightening.
Good luck. I hope Ricoh makes the right choice for you.

I'd take a look and see if there are any small cracks in the metal just to be safe from "impact damage"

View Poll Results: What is your experience with Pentax authorized repair in Enfield CT?
Happy with repair performed, communication, and speed of service	14	25.45%
Happy with repair performed, service was lacking in communication	7	12.73%
Happy with repair performed, service was lacking in speed	3	5.45%
Happy with repair performed, service was lacking in speed AND communication	9	16.36%
Unhappy with repair performed, service speed and communication were good	2	3.64%
Unhappy with repair performed and communication, service speed good	1	1.82%
Unhappy with repair performed and service speed, communication good	3	5.45%
Unhappy with repair performed, service speed, and communication.	16	29.09%
Voters: 55. You may not vote on this poll

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
First experience with Precision Camera	esrandall	Pentax DSLR Discussion	14	03-20-2015 04:34 PM
A recent bad experience with Precision Camera	hyyz	Pentax SLR Lens Discussion	15	02-25-2015 09:45 PM
My ongoing experience with Precision Camera	DeadJohn	Photographic Industry and Professionals	20	11-03-2014 04:13 PM
Precision Camera in Enfield CT & My K10 repairs update	vievetrick	Photographic Technique	12	01-17-2012 07:59 PM
anyone used Precision Camera in Enfield CT for repairs	vievetrick	Photographic Technique	0	05-02-2008 01:09 PM

10-25-2016, 10:29 AM	#46
VoiceOfReason Emperor and Senpai Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mishawaka IN area Photos: Albums Posts: 6,118	Precision just called me again and are telling me that the warranty is void because of the tripod foot being broken off, which is why I sent the lens in in the first place. It failed when I had put the lens on a tripod. It had always had a little flex that I never even thought a thing about. Ohh, and the price tag increased to over 500 dollars for the repair! I don't think I will be able to recommend Pentax any more if this is not repaired under warranty.

10-25-2016, 10:32 AM	#47
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 23,027	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason Precision just called me again and are telling me that the warranty is void because of the tripod foot being broken off, which is why I sent the lens in in the first place. It failed when I had put the lens on a tripod. It had always had a little flex that I never even thought a thing about. Ohh, and the price tag increased to over 500 dollars for the repair! I don't think I will be able to recommend Pentax any more if this is not repaired under warranty. I don't blame you. Contact Ricoh immediately and calmly explain everything and see what they say. The sad truth is that there are people out there who take advantage of companies and make false claims that makes it so hard for those of us like you who are the victims of this.

10-25-2016, 11:12 AM	#48
VoiceOfReason Emperor and Senpai Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mishawaka IN area Photos: Albums Posts: 6,118	I have called and have posted on their facebook page.

10-25-2016, 11:55 AM	#49
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 23,027	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason I have called and have posted on their facebook page. Ugh. Here's hoping you get a response. For the failure itself to be called out as the reason you can't get warranty is insane. Tripod foot failed - lens fell - therefore damage is due to fall so not warranty... uh excuse me - doesn't the foot failure indicate a problem with the lens to begin with? Sigh...

10-25-2016, 12:02 PM	#50
VoiceOfReason Emperor and Senpai Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mishawaka IN area Photos: Albums Posts: 6,118	Yep, it is circular reasoning on their part.

10-25-2016, 01:47 PM	#51
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 23,027	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason Yep, it is circular reasoning on their part. Depending on the type of failure they could be blaming user error. Imagine if the tripod foot was incorrectly attached due to misunderstanding of how to do it. A user could misattach it and then drop the lens and blame Ricoh. Granted the opposite is also true - a faulty foot could fail and Precision could blame the user... hey wait a second...

10-25-2016, 05:54 PM - 1 Like	#53
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 23,027	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason Here's the thing. When I mounted the lens on the tripod this stayed and the lens fell off and dropped into a camp chair. Glad it didn't damage my camera. I had never removed the tripod collar,a dn I don't even know if you can with this lens. It was shocking to see this happen. There are no signs of any damage anywhere on the lens barrel, hood, or mount. There are no scratches or chips anywhere. Jimminy Cricket that's insane. I guess the first thing I would be saying to Ricoh is that they likely need this part in Japan to analyze. Metal fatigue in a part that young spells potential major trouble if this is wider spread than a single lens. They need to examine it and determine if the metal meets specs etc.

10-25-2016, 06:07 PM	#54
VoiceOfReason Emperor and Senpai Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mishawaka IN area Photos: Albums Posts: 6,118	Originally posted by UncleVanya Jimminy Cricket that's insane. I guess the first thing I would be saying to Ricoh is that they likely need this part in Japan to analyze. Metal fatigue in a part that young spells potential major trouble if this is wider spread than a single lens. They need to examine it and determine if the metal meets specs etc. I would be fine with that as long as I get my lens back, repaired or replaced under warranty. It may have had something happen during shipping but I don't know. I wish someone with Ricoh was on here and could pass this along because frankly I am a bit mad at this happening when I was on a photography trip, the first time I was really going to give this lens a good workout, and how the repair is going with it. This is AFTER I spend 53 bucks to send it in to them at my expense to be repaired. This is my most expensive lens, and I hoped I'd get many years of use from it.

10-25-2016, 06:14 PM	#55
mee Veteran Member Join Date: May 2010 Posts: 7,402 Original Poster	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason I would be fine with that as long as I get my lens back, repaired or replaced under warranty. It may have had something happen during shipping but I don't know. I wish someone with Ricoh was on here and could pass this along because frankly I am a bit mad at this happening when I was on a photography trip, the first time I was really going to give this lens a good workout, and how the repair is going with it. This is AFTER I spend 53 bucks to send it in to them at my expense to be repaired. This is my most expensive lens, and I hoped I'd get many years of use from it. That is infuriating indeed. But, if I were in your situation, I'd get some rest, compose myself, and try to get someone on the phone at Ricoh tomorrow. Then, after that is done, explain the metal fatigue of the part and the damage wasn't due to your mistake or negligence but a direct effect of the (Pentax made) part failing prematurely. I hate to say it.. but it seems Precision techs are throwing out the 'impact damage' card a lot recently.. and I'd surmise that is because it is getting expensive for them to keep replacing these items under warranty (in many cases whole lenses). Much cheaper to lie and get you to pay for it.

10-25-2016, 06:17 PM	#56
VoiceOfReason Emperor and Senpai Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mishawaka IN area Photos: Albums Posts: 6,118	Originally posted by mee That is infuriating indeed. But, if I were in your situation, I'd get some rest, compose myself, and try to get someone on the phone at Ricoh tomorrow. Then, after that is done, explain the metal fatigue of the part and the damage wasn't due to your mistake or negligence but a direct effect of the (Pentax made) part failing prematurely. I hate to say it.. but it seems Precision techs are throwing out the 'impact damage' card a lot recently.. and I'd surmise that is because it is getting expensive for them to keep replacing these items under warranty (in many cases whole lenses). Much cheaper to lie and get you to pay for it. I called Ricoh last Friday over it and expected a call today on it. I also posted on their FB page as well, though I may message them. I should not have to pay over $500 (the estimate grew) to repair a factory defect in materials and a very expensive lens. I may call them back tomorrow.

Thread Tools	Search this Thread
	Search this Thread: Advanced Search

10-25-2016, 06:28 PM - 1 Like	#57
mee Veteran Member Join Date: May 2010 Posts: 7,402 Original Poster	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason I called Ricoh last Friday over it and expected a call today on it. I also posted on their FB page as well, though I may message them. I should not have to pay over $500 (the estimate grew) to repair a factory defect in materials and a very expensive lens. I may call them back tomorrow. Yes, I agree. That's why I'd call them tomorrow and explain the situation politely. Warranty should cover issues with workmanship of the product.

10-25-2016, 09:48 PM	#58
asamimasa Junior Member Join Date: Jun 2016 Posts: 34	Sent my K-1 in for AF module fixing (all AF lenses failed beyond microfocus adjust range) on 9/30. Entered repair on 10/3. Called a week later for a status update, they had ordered parts for the dial issue mentioned here. Glad to know they were addressing issues before it rears its head. Called yesterday (10/24), the representative said it was strange that no movement had been recorded on it in a while, and now I await to hear back...

10-25-2016, 10:01 PM	#59
geomez Site Supporter Join Date: Mar 2013 Location: Preskitt Arizona Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,758	Originally posted by VoiceOfReason Here's the thing. When I mounted the lens on the tripod this stayed and the lens fell off and dropped into a camp chair. Glad it didn't damage my camera. I had never removed the tripod collar,a dn I don't even know if you can with this lens. It was shocking to see this happen. There are no signs of any damage anywhere on the lens barrel, hood, or mount. There are no scratches or chips anywhere. I have that same lens and carry it by the collar I will tell that the collar on that lens is removable, though more difficult to remove than the collar on the DA* 300. IMO it doesn't seem like a better design, based on the fact that yours failed and mine gets wobbly on occasion, needing removal and tightening. Good luck. I hope Ricoh makes the right choice for you.

10-26-2016, 08:52 AM	#60
VoiceOfReason Emperor and Senpai Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Mishawaka IN area Photos: Albums Posts: 6,118	Originally posted by geomez I have that same lens and carry it by the collar I will tell that the collar on that lens is removable, though more difficult to remove than the collar on the DA* 300. IMO it doesn't seem like a better design, based on the fact that yours failed and mine gets wobbly on occasion, needing removal and tightening. Good luck. I hope Ricoh makes the right choice for you. I'd take a look and see if there are any small cracks in the metal just to be safe from "impact damage"