geoff_kitchen

<p>The Tamron lenses selling for under $1k are indeed gray market. I recently purchased a full-priced Tamron 24-70 from Beach Camera (through Amazon) and received a genuine US model lens. Unfortunately the lens was faulty and I had to return it. I ordered a second copy, also from Beach through amazon. The second lens was stellar, sharp wide open and, by my estimation, the nicest lens I have ever owned (and I have some decent glass, including the Nikon 70-200 VRII). I quickly decided I would keep this one and went to register the lens on Tamron's website so I would be eligible for the 6 year warranty. When I entered the serial number of the second lens I learned it was in fact a gray market lens. I don't blame Amazon, but I certainly blame Beach Camera for trying to pass off a gray market lens as a genuine USA model (and charging me full price for it!). I will never purchase anything from Beach Camera again, and I have vowed to warn others of their ethical standards. I have since returned the second lens to Amazon (great customer service, by the way, refunding me money and paying for return shipping) and ordered a 3rd lens form Cameta Camera (also through Amazon). Cameta's website proudly states that they do not carry or sell ANY gray market lenses.</p>