Ricoh GXR warning and observation

Last evening I flicked the flash open with a fingernail as I have done previously on a different camera. No force was applied, but apparently the force used was sufficient to break a fragile catch, and the flash will no longer lock down. A check of the internet confirmed that the catch is easy to break. When I looked for repairs, the Ricoh site and Authorized Repair site were interesting, enter the camera type and model, and no info on the problem, cost of repair with free shipping, $172.50. Fortunately I have a spare body, and don't use flash very much, so I can just fasten down the flash and move on. Checking on cameras for sale, If needed, I could buy another body, several available under the cost of repair, though most were more than I paid originally.

Observation - prices overall on the GXR and accessories have increased amazingly over the last year & a half - two years since I acquired my collection

Warning - you need to use the button provided to release the flash!