Bargain hunting - Madrid, Paris, London

I'm 4 days from going on extended vacation!!! :-))

 

Any place in Madrid, Paris or London where I might be able to buy

reasonably-priced new or even used equipment, such as Nikon SLR

lenses, light meters, etc...?? I realize the USD is relatively weak

these days (compared to the Euro, and I think to the BP as well), but

no harm in bargain hunting. Thanks.

You'd be better off buying the photo magazines and looking at

the dealer and small-ads rather than tramping the streets of

capital cities only to conclude that retail is much more expensive

than mail-order.

 

In any case you'll find that most 35mm gear is a lot cheaper in

the US. Some items, such as most med format equipment, and

I think Gitzo tripods and some light meters are cheaper in the

UK.

agreed, you'll be in for a shock! If I find myself in the US anytime soon I'll be checking out equipment there, or south africa is good right now cos of the weak rand. You've only got 4 days, don't waste your time - you won't find any bargains!!!!

<p><i>Any place in Madrid, Paris or London where I might be able to buy reasonably-priced new or even used equipment</i></p>

<p>No. Not compared to the US. The weak US dollar just makes it even worse.</p>

Jessops, check out Jessops.com used equipment

 

though they dont advertise price, there are some real bargains lurking in the second hand dept with some negotiating and a friendly name

Don't forget the high sales taxes over there; I don't know if you can get a refund on used items?

<i>Don't forget the high sales taxes over there; I don't know if you

can get a refund on used items?</i><br><br>That is true. Most

dealers operate using what is called the 'margin scheme' for

used items. The dealer accounts for VAT/sales tax only on his

margin between the selling price and what he paid. When the

goods are sold there is no indication on the invoice as to how

much sales tax is involved in the sale. This is so that the dealer

need not have to reveal his margin. Under these circumstances

there is no VAT that overseas visitors (or, for that matter, other

VAT registered busineses in Europe) can reclaim.