Used Gradings at Online Retailers

chrism_scotland

chrism_scotland

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Something I've been meaning to post for a while... does anyone else thing that online retailers of used goods are a little "optimistic" in their condition ratings?
I'm really talking about WEX specifically, but I've noticed others do it too.

For example, looking at a Fuji 16-55 - WEX have a few and one is graded as "9-" = with their scale going from 1-10 (Low to High).

In the condition description however, they state this:

"This lens shows little use, the lens exhibits a few marks including light debris in the grips, light wear to the hood mount with marks of minor paint loss, small scratch to the front optic, dust in the optics."

Surely at the point their is any paint loss and a scratch to the front optic (minor or not) it shouldn't be rated as a "9-".... debris fair enough (usually cleans) and "wear to the mount" is just wear and tear but a scratch/paint missing certainly cosmetically wouldn't be a 9 in my book!!!

Imagine what a "2" looks like? Flattened by a truck?
 
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I have a fully operational 300mm Hoya lens that was run over by a Hillman Imp. It only has a gouge scratch and a bent focus ring - I reckon it's worth a 7+. ;)
 
I agree with you about Wex being optimistic.
A few years ago I bought several used items and came to the conclusion that in future I would buy nothing below 9.
9- is in old money only excellent and the item is usually in disappointing condition when received (more like an 8 in my book)
Old money gradings are mint, mint- Excellent ++, Excellent + and Excellent.

Ffordes use the old system and most of the items of mine they have sold they have been cautious with the gradings.

LSE are another where I trust their gradings - 4 star items purchased have often looked like new to my eye.

Grays - a while since I bought anything but they are just a shade optimistic in my view.

Not much experience with MPB.
 
Sky said:
I have a fully operational 300mm Hoya lens that was run over by a Hillman Imp. It only has a gouge scratch and a bent focus ring - I reckon it's worth a 7+. ;)
Click to expand...
What score did the Hillman imp get? ;)
 
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