What is black market in equipment? What does that mean? Thx!

[Amerino28]

I am buying a lens off of Craigslist and I always see people stating that its not a black market item. The lens that I am interested in does not mention black market. Should I be concerned and ask? I'd like to know what exactly does this mean. Thank you

[GwenieThePooh]

If they list that the product is not a black market it means that the item was not stolen or not illegal items ... if i am correct

[Digidave]

I think you may be referring to Grey Market.

If that is the case, it means it was not meant to be sold in the USA. Which is okay until you need to get it serviced. Then it may need to be sent back to country of origin.

[ednorm]

Yup ole Digidave is right, theyr are referring to grey market product, those that do not carry an American warranty. The weird thing is they average $10 to $20 cheaper and for that amount why take the chance, but even solid reputable places such as B&H photo and Beach Camera and Adorama have listings for both.

By the way, do I win this game/challenge?

ed

[Jim Poor]

Originally Posted by Digidave

I think you may be referring to Grey Market.

If that is the case, it means it was not meant to be sold in the USA. Which is okay until you need to get it serviced. Then it may need to be sent back to country of origin.

There are quite a few places that will service grey market items. I have three grey market lenses that were bought not for the price difference, but because US models were out of supply for extended time periods.