Originally posted by Pablo Villegas Buying from Japan is the best you can do on eBay, the best quality and lowest prices. I have bought a ton of equipment for there and never had a problem.
eBay!? That is fantasy.
And postage is
not free. At the Customs gate, they'll do the postage for you and add it to the tax bill, in those countries where import duties apply e.g. here in Australia for imports over AUD$1,000 (from July 1st this year tax will apply on
all imports irrespective of the amount).
On my trip to Tokyo last May it was said to me by several dealers who also have an eBay shopfront that postage is worked into the overall cost and shown as "free". It cannot be free because postage in Japan to destinations around the globe is not and never has been cheap. Customs around the world know about this and have the means to determine the postage.
It is a very enjoyable experience to shop in person for camera equipment in Japan, if you keep in mind that it is not like shopping in New York or Vancouver! And arrangements for thoroughly checking out equipment (the range is mind boggling, while eBay is not) before committing to purchase are respected. I would happily put money aside to travel to Japan than buy stuff through eBay simply because personal experience and wisdom has taught me just what can happen. And I'm not alone. I return Japan again this year/
Don't be swept off your feet by everything and anything that glitters and shines on eBay. It is a very expensive place for sellers and buyers alike and not everything is as it seems.