Canon 100mm f/2.8 USM Macro (Where to Buy)

[frjeff]

I have the insatiable desire (this hobby is expensive!) for the subject lens.
I just let a good one get away on Ebay. However, now I see I could get it new as follows:

Amazon $470
J&R $434

Some used ones with hood are going for $450+ on Ebay, etc. :(

Any experience with J&R ?
I have done thousands of $$ (books) with Amazon.

If not J&R, any other reliable and honest, decent priced on-line lens sellers?

Thanks,

[gkas]

It's $470 at B&H, $468 at Canoga Camera. J&R is OK to deal with. I've bought a few non-photo items from them.

[pixel_junkie]

I just ordered one from B&H, about an hour ago. I was thinking of getting it from JR but it doesn't say if it is an Import or USA lens. My guess it is an import so I went with B&H - $469

[frjeff]

I just ordered one from B&H, about an hour ago. I was thinking of getting it from JR but it doesn't say if it is an Import or USA lens. My guess it is an import so I went with B&H - $469


Please explain to me the difference between import and USA variations. Is this the same as when I see a lens which says "gray market"??

[Apone]

got my 70-200 L f4 IS from JR. No problem. Same price as B&H at the time but had free shipping. I did make sure I got the USA version as both were listed.

[Grentz]

Please explain to me the difference between import and USA variations. Is this the same as when I see a lens which says "gray market"??

import/grey market is the exact same lens, but it will not carry a warranty from Canon (all USA Canon lenses carry a 1 year warranty).

Some places, such as B&H, will add their own warranty to import/grey market lenses.



J&R is also fine to buy from, they are a very large reputable company. In fact they sell through amazon many times.

[txsnurse]

I personally searched the local camera stores for my 100mm Macro - they had it listed at 499 and I asked them how much they could come down to meet internet prices. I bought mine new (no used in the shop) for 480. I feel better about buying it from a store that's down the street from me and it made the difference minimal enough for me!