Man, I love craigslist.

Finn · 11-16-2009, 10:27 AM

I don't normally browse craigslist, living in a pretty small town without a whole lot of Pentax folks. Yesterday I was procrastinating (like I am now!) and came across an ME with M 50/1.4, flash, bag, and a whole bunch of filters for $50. I figured I couldn't lose, even if it was all in crappy shape.

The camera and lens are beautiful! They look brand new, other than the cigarette stink permeating everything. I figure I'll just let it all air out, and I've got some keepers.

Of course, it wasn't anything I actually need. "Going broke saving money" as my stepdad used to tell me!

**ChrisPlatt** · 11-16-2009, 11:18 AM

For every one of those I find two dozen asking $500 for a body and 50mm lens...

"Going broke saving money" - that should be the motto of the big box stores!

Chris

keyser · 11-16-2009, 11:29 AM

If you've never used this lens, you'll love it. Not ~the~ sharpest 50mm, but still packs plenty of resolving power with an IQ all of it's own. Obviously perfectly feature matched to the camera too.

Finn · 11-16-2009, 11:44 AM

I have a beat up but optically perfect M 50/1.7 as well, and that thing is crazy sharp. This one is just so beautiful, I think I'll have to use it!

Oh and the ME is black and in mint condition. I didn't even know they made black ones!

Dangermouse · 11-16-2009, 12:07 PM

I had a very similar experience with a silver ME Super, came with a 50mm f1.7 and an old generic flash, even had the original Pentax strap. Unfortunately, judging by the smell, the last owner had a fifty a day habit!

It will go within a few days. I managed to reduce it by removing and washing the strap, and cleaning all the little crevices on the camera with a cotton bud dipped in lens cleaning fluid.

Nowhere Matt · 11-16-2009, 01:56 PM

I have often thought of trying to work out a better way to get people connected to the treasures that can be found on Craigslist every so often. I mean there are times when after seeing two dozen listings for Canon and Nikon gear, you come across a listing for a K1000 with an M 50 or something average. But I do not need a K1000 or M 50 and have often thought of sending a low ball offer so I can pass it on to someone here who may have use for it.
There are probably three listings a week for Pentax stuff in my metropolitan area and 20 times that much for the other two. It is fun to look and be hopeful. Someone once suggested that regardless of how few Pentax users there are, we are always scoping for good glass. I do not have much "good glass" and there are times when I really wish I could pick up some of these deals and share them with a few around the forum. Not looking to make a profit but simply put the right people in with the right used equipment.
But if the listing is really somewhat interesting and seems to not be doing well, I sometimes send the seller a friendly message and suggest that if the sale does not go well they should think about a donation to a local high school or veteran's organization.

Eruditass · 11-16-2009, 02:10 PM

*starts scouring craigslist for another week again only to give up as usual*

Maybe I should just search all film cameras, right now I'm just looking up Pentax and never get anything good.

KJon · 11-16-2009, 07:00 PM

I check in with Craigslist once a week and check out the neighboring states as well. While I'm primarily looking for Pentax, I browse other brands as well. So far I've netted an M50mm f/1.7, a fair ME Super on one outing and a pristine K1000, M50mm f/2, M35mm f/3.5, Hoya 135 f/2.8, Tokina 80-200mm f/4 (still haven't see a shot from the Tokina - roll is still in the camera waiting to be finished when I get the time) on another "trip". There are genuine treasures to be found; some NIB stuff as well - saw a Mamiya 645 last night, but the price tag was too rich for my blood. Also saw an SP5000 <?> with some nice Taks to go with it, but I just don't have the time to pursue it this week.

I guess the point I'm trying to make is that I enjoy arm chair window shopping and if something really grabs my attention (and fits my budget), I'll try to make a deal. I think if I were actually looking for a specific piece of kit, it might not be as much fun, but prove more frustrating than anything else.

Best to all,
Kevin

jadedrakerider · 11-19-2009, 07:23 AM

Originally posted by Eruditass

*starts scouring craigslist for another week again only to give up as usual*

Browsing Craigslist is like an addiction. I don't have any money, but I keep browsing anyway because ... well, if I don't I get chills (not really!).

A real pity, too. I came across a Pentax K2 last week! Had some extras, only for $75!

Edit:
And this today!

3 PENTAX TAKUMAR CLASSIC LENS - $150

I've been keeping my eyes peeled for a 55mm in the K mount, but still. These are not at all shabby.

dragonfly · 11-19-2009, 07:42 AM

Originally posted by jadedrakerider

And this today!

3 PENTAX TAKUMAR CLASSIC LENS - $150

The pics from that ad are very appealing.

I've been using craigslist genie to get the latest pentax offerings, but only bought one lens so far. It's mostly just that dude from Felton trying to get rid of his sub-par lenses and some used bodies.

Dangermouse · 11-19-2009, 07:53 AM

Originally posted by jadedrakerider

Browsing Craigslist is like an addiction. I don't have any money, but I keep browsing anyway because ... well, if I don't I get chills (not really!).

A real pity, too. I came across a Pentax K2 last week! Had some extras, only for $75!

Edit:
And this today!

3 PENTAX TAKUMAR CLASSIC LENS - $150

I've been keeping my eyes peeled for a 55mm in the K mount, but still. These are not at all shabby.

Same with me and ebay. I just keep an eye on how much things are going for so I know whether that "Buy It Now" is a bargain or a crazy price in the hope that someone will bite.

The 55mm Ks do pop up fairly often, so keep your eyes open. They're excellent lenses and the aperture coupling will work with a DSLR, unlike the M42 type where you have to stop the lens down after focussing.

Waldo Humblebee · 11-25-2009, 04:43 PM

I just got home a couple hours ago with a great Craig’s List purchase. I check often and do not find much Pentax equipment around here and I was surprised to come across this. All for $150.00. The cameras show wear on the outside but the insides are impeccable. All the lenses look brand new and all the glass is spotless.

Kit includes:

Spotmatis SP II
Spotmatic F
Takumar SMC 1:1.4/50mm
Takumar SMC 1:4/50mm macro
Super Takumar 1:3.5/24mm
Takumar SMC 1:3.5/ 135mm
Soligor Auto Zoom 1:4.5 90-230mm
Soligor 1:8 500mm
APS Auto Teleplus 2X
Handsome Carrying Case

dragonfly · 11-25-2009, 04:55 PM

What is the large item on the left in the case?

Waldo Humblebee · 11-25-2009, 05:23 PM

Soligor 1:8 500mm.

jadedrakerider · 11-26-2009, 10:32 AM

Originally posted by Waldo Humblebee

I just got home a couple hours ago with a great Craig’s List purchase. I check often and do not find much Pentax equipment around here and I was surprised to come across this.

I have to say I thought I was hot shit to get a lightly scratched 55mm Super Takumar f/1.8 for 15 bucks.

You bested me!

11-16-2009, 10:27 AM	#1
Finn Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Phoenix Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,056	Man, I love craigslist. I don't normally browse craigslist, living in a pretty small town without a whole lot of Pentax folks. Yesterday I was procrastinating (like I am now!) and came across an ME with M 50/1.4, flash, bag, and a whole bunch of filters for $50. I figured I couldn't lose, even if it was all in crappy shape. The camera and lens are beautiful! They look brand new, other than the cigarette stink permeating everything. I figure I'll just let it all air out, and I've got some keepers. Of course, it wasn't anything I actually need. "Going broke saving money" as my stepdad used to tell me!

11-19-2009, 07:23 AM	#9
jadedrakerider Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Mohave Valley, AZ Photos: Gallery Posts: 214	Originally posted by Eruditass starts scouring craigslist for another week again only to give up as usual Browsing Craigslist is like an addiction. I don't have any money, but I keep browsing anyway because ... well, if I don't I get chills (not really!). A real pity, too. I came across a Pentax K2 last week! Had some extras, only for $75! Edit: And this today! 3 PENTAX TAKUMAR CLASSIC LENS - $150 I've been keeping my eyes peeled for a 55mm in the K mount, but still. These are not at all shabby. Last edited by jadedrakerider; 11-19-2009 at 07:27 AM. Reason: More info

11-19-2009, 07:53 AM	#11
Dangermouse Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 283	Originally posted by jadedrakerider Browsing Craigslist is like an addiction. I don't have any money, but I keep browsing anyway because ... well, if I don't I get chills (not really!). A real pity, too. I came across a Pentax K2 last week! Had some extras, only for $75! Edit: And this today! 3 PENTAX TAKUMAR CLASSIC LENS - $150 I've been keeping my eyes peeled for a 55mm in the K mount, but still. These are not at all shabby. Same with me and ebay. I just keep an eye on how much things are going for so I know whether that "Buy It Now" is a bargain or a crazy price in the hope that someone will bite. The 55mm Ks do pop up fairly often, so keep your eyes open. They're excellent lenses and the aperture coupling will work with a DSLR, unlike the M42 type where you have to stop the lens down after focussing. Last edited by Dangermouse; 11-19-2009 at 07:56 AM. Reason: Additional content

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11-16-2009, 11:18 AM	#2
ChrisPlatt Site Supporter Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Rockaway Beach NYC Posts: 7,696	For every one of those I find two dozen asking $500 for a body and 50mm lens... "Going broke saving money" - that should be the motto of the big box stores! Chris

11-16-2009, 11:29 AM	#3
keyser Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Tsawwassen, BC Posts: 376	If you've never used this lens, you'll love it. Not ~the~ sharpest 50mm, but still packs plenty of resolving power with an IQ all of it's own. Obviously perfectly feature matched to the camera too.

11-16-2009, 11:44 AM	#4
Finn Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Phoenix Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,056 Original Poster	I have a beat up but optically perfect M 50/1.7 as well, and that thing is crazy sharp. This one is just so beautiful, I think I'll have to use it! Oh and the ME is black and in mint condition. I didn't even know they made black ones!

11-16-2009, 12:07 PM	#5
Dangermouse Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Posts: 283	I had a very similar experience with a silver ME Super, came with a 50mm f1.7 and an old generic flash, even had the original Pentax strap. Unfortunately, judging by the smell, the last owner had a fifty a day habit! It will go within a few days. I managed to reduce it by removing and washing the strap, and cleaning all the little crevices on the camera with a cotton bud dipped in lens cleaning fluid.

11-16-2009, 01:56 PM	#6
Nowhere Matt Veteran Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Nowhere Land Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,362	I have often thought of trying to work out a better way to get people connected to the treasures that can be found on Craigslist every so often. I mean there are times when after seeing two dozen listings for Canon and Nikon gear, you come across a listing for a K1000 with an M 50 or something average. But I do not need a K1000 or M 50 and have often thought of sending a low ball offer so I can pass it on to someone here who may have use for it. There are probably three listings a week for Pentax stuff in my metropolitan area and 20 times that much for the other two. It is fun to look and be hopeful. Someone once suggested that regardless of how few Pentax users there are, we are always scoping for good glass. I do not have much "good glass" and there are times when I really wish I could pick up some of these deals and share them with a few around the forum. Not looking to make a profit but simply put the right people in with the right used equipment. But if the listing is really somewhat interesting and seems to not be doing well, I sometimes send the seller a friendly message and suggest that if the sale does not go well they should think about a donation to a local high school or veteran's organization.

11-16-2009, 02:10 PM	#7
Eruditass Veteran Member Join Date: Jul 2009 Photos: Gallery Posts: 2,207	starts scouring craigslist for another week again only to give up as usual Maybe I should just search all film cameras, right now I'm just looking up Pentax and never get anything good.

11-16-2009, 07:00 PM	#8
KJon Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Connecticut, USA Photos: Gallery Posts: 542	I check in with Craigslist once a week and check out the neighboring states as well. While I'm primarily looking for Pentax, I browse other brands as well. So far I've netted an M50mm f/1.7, a fair ME Super on one outing and a pristine K1000, M50mm f/2, M35mm f/3.5, Hoya 135 f/2.8, Tokina 80-200mm f/4 (still haven't see a shot from the Tokina - roll is still in the camera waiting to be finished when I get the time) on another "trip". There are genuine treasures to be found; some NIB stuff as well - saw a Mamiya 645 last night, but the price tag was too rich for my blood. Also saw an SP5000 <?> with some nice Taks to go with it, but I just don't have the time to pursue it this week. I guess the point I'm trying to make is that I enjoy arm chair window shopping and if something really grabs my attention (and fits my budget), I'll try to make a deal. I think if I were actually looking for a specific piece of kit, it might not be as much fun, but prove more frustrating than anything else. Best to all, Kevin

11-19-2009, 07:42 AM	#10
dragonfly Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: on the wall Photos: Gallery Posts: 715	Originally posted by jadedrakerider And this today! 3 PENTAX TAKUMAR CLASSIC LENS - $150 The pics from that ad are very appealing. I've been using craigslist genie to get the latest pentax offerings, but only bought one lens so far. It's mostly just that dude from Felton trying to get rid of his sub-par lenses and some used bodies.

11-25-2009, 04:55 PM	#13
dragonfly Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: on the wall Photos: Gallery Posts: 715	What is the large item on the left in the case?

11-25-2009, 05:23 PM	#14
Waldo Humblebee Inactive Account Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: St Petersburg, FL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 24	Soligor 1:8 500mm.

11-26-2009, 10:32 AM	#15
jadedrakerider Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Mohave Valley, AZ Photos: Gallery Posts: 214	Originally posted by Waldo Humblebee I just got home a couple hours ago with a great Craig’s List purchase. I check often and do not find much Pentax equipment around here and I was surprised to come across this. I have to say I thought I was hot shit to get a lightly scratched 55mm Super Takumar f/1.8 for 15 bucks. You bested me!