"Grey" import

[TangoSierra]

Evening all, looking at this lens on amazon and after reading a few threads on here I've noticed people asking whether it is a "grey" import? What does this mean (sorry to be a little thick), what's the difference and how do I know if a lens is one?

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sigma-17-70...=1376947059&sr=8-1&keywords=sigma+17-70+nikon

Thanks in advance.

 

[Phal]

Grey imports are goods imported from other countries because prices are cheaper abroad (crap UK prices + 20% vat)

Main issues with grey imports are the fact that warranties might not be valid here and that you might get stung for tax as you're importing the stuff.

The better places for grey imports provide a warranty service of their own and say they'll cover any extra fees but that's up to them.

 

[TangoSierra]

Thanks Phal, makes sense. Are they the same build quality then?

 

[Dave *]

Thanks Phal, makes sense. Are they the same build quality then?

They all come from the same factory, it is just down to a lack of UK vat/duty being paid and a lack of warranty from the manufacturer.

 

[TangoSierra]

Ta Dave.

 

[KIPAX]

same equipment.. not copies or anything..

if you can find a UK company that sells cheaper grey importants.. proper company that offers a proper uk reciept then your warranty is valid in UK

I use http://www.flashcamera.co.uk/ who is highly reccomended on these forums .. hes also on ebay trading as kerso

 

[TangoSierra]

Thanks kipax