Posted by Kevin Popp on February 4, 2010 at 1:17 PM
When looking at Nikon Lenses on BH website the imported is about $400 less. Why?
Posted by Brian Jackson on February 4, 2010 at 2:20 PM
From B&H website
"Items marked "USA" are imported and/or distributed by the manufacturer or the manufacturer's official licensed importer/distributor and are warranted by them. Items marked "IMP" are imported and/or distributed by other entities and are warranted by B&H Photo-Video. "IMP" products do not qualify for manufacturer's rebate programs. There is no difference in the item itself."
These are usually called "grey market" items, they are the same thing, they just aren't under warranty, although B&H will gives you a 1 year warranty on IMP items.
Posted by Kevin Popp on February 4, 2010 at 2:37 PM
Thanks for the information...
Posted by Dan Borzynski on February 5, 2010 at 12:11 AM
Nikon also will not service any grey market items in the USA, in or out of the warranty. While B&H is a very reputable company, potentially losing servicing 3 years three years down the road probably is not a good tradeoff for $400, especially given the overall price you are paying for the lens.
Canon generally will service their grey market items but they don't have to and may decide not to.
Posted by Don George on February 5, 2010 at 12:51 PM
I would take Dan's information into consideration. If for no other reason than having peace of mind. It sounds like your buying an expensive piece of glass and its probably a life time purchase. I would certainly go for the USA warranty.
Discussion
4 replies"Items marked "USA" are imported and/or distributed by the manufacturer or the manufacturer's official licensed importer/distributor and are warranted by them. Items marked "IMP" are imported and/or distributed by other entities and are warranted by B&H Photo-Video. "IMP" products do not qualify for manufacturer's rebate programs. There is no difference in the item itself."
These are usually called "grey market" items, they are the same thing, they just aren't under warranty, although B&H will gives you a 1 year warranty on IMP items.
Canon generally will service their grey market items but they don't have to and may decide not to.