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Conditions Affecting Lens Value
I believe used camera lenses should be judged on a combination
of cosmetic condition and functionality. This is in addition to the original
sharpness, clarity and contrast of the lens when new. I also know that people
value lenses in distinct and different ways. For instance, a lens in mint
cosmetic condition, but not functioning, may be perfectly acceptable to
a collector. On the other hand, a user may not care much about
the appearance of the lens barrel, as long as the glass is free from scratches,
fungus or clouding of any kind -- and it works. The table below lists my
general rating categories for both cosmetic value and functionality of used
lenses.
Cosmetic Condition |
Functional Condition |
Rating |
Cosmetic Description |
Rating |
Functional Description |
Mint |
New in box with original warranty, or as
new, never used, with absolutely no signs of wear. |
Mint |
New, everything functioning perfectly. Still
has factory warranty or seller guarantees functioning. |
Excellent |
Very minimal signs of wear. If it had a box,
you'd have a hard time telling it from new. |
Excellent |
Everything functioning well. Recently
professionally cleaned, lubed and overhauled. |
Very Good |
Barrel may have signs of slight use, but not
abuse. Glass is very clean. |
Very Good |
Major functions
recently tested, and seem to be functioning well. |
Good |
May show signs of normal use or age. Glass is
clear (antique or rare lenses could have light cleaning marks). |
Good |
Fully functioning, but not cleaned or
overhauled recently. |
Fair |
Complete, but showing signs of heavy use. Lens
glass may show light, inoffensive cleaning marks. |
Fair |
Usable, but not fully. Aperture may stick at
some settings. |
Poor |
Restorable. Refinishing may be required or
truly necessary. Minor parts (not glass) may be broken or missing. |
Poor |
Not usable without repair or cleaning.
Aperture sticking. Lens glass may have light fungus or light cleaning
marks. |
Parts |
Major dents, dirt or abuse evident. Glass
broken or cracked. Consider major restoration effort only if a truly
rare lens. |
Parts |
Everything damaged, nothing works, major parts
missing, glass bad. Probably not worth repair. Toss, or use for parts
only. |
© 2000-2010 R.L. Herron
All Rights Reserved. Legal
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