How to Sell Antique Cameras
So you have a pile of glass and metal resembling what was once called a camera and you're looking to sell it? This how-to will walk you through how to make some more room and extra money for yourself by selling your antique camera gear.
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Instructions
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First, research the camera you are looking to sell. This may involve researching the details of the camera, such as the make, model, specifications, and functionality, or may simply be a search for the current selling price. "McKeown's Price Guide" is an excellent reference for camera values. A search of finished eBay listings for the camera you are interested in selling will give you an idea of the current market value of your antique camera. For general and technical information on a particular model of camera look to message boards and forums focused on the make or model of camera you are selling.
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Evaluate the condition of the antique camera. Appearance is important and does factor into the value of the camera. However the mechanical and electrical functionality of the camera is also important, as even though a camera may be several decades old buyers may be interested in using it to take pictures and expect the camera to function properly. If you are not qualified to assess the mechanics or optics of a camera you may need to have it looked by a technician or someone familiar with similar cameras.
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Consider having the camera serviced if it will improve the value of the camera or bring it back into a state of proper operation. Only research will help you determine if the cost of having the camera serviced will improve the resale value of the camera significantly. The fact that the camera has been serviced recently is an excellent selling point in and of itself.
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Find an outlet to sell your antique camera. Now that you have assessed the camera and it is ready for sale, you must decide what venue is the most appropriate for selling it. Your local camera shop may have a used camera section and will take your camera on commission, however unless you live in a large city the market for antique photography gear in the area may be small. Online auction sites are an option and the standard route, although you can also choose to list your camera on smaller special interest sites where more people are likely to be looking for the type of camera you are trying to sell. Also, don't forget to consider selling your antique camera, especially if you have several, at one of the many photography fairs or shows where others are also selling used photography gear. Lastly, there are some companies that will buy your antique camera from you outright, although they do tend to only buy cameras that resell regularly.
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