I plan on ordering one of these next week--just waiting for a check to clear--but have not been able to find one in stock. Ritz does have them, but at a price almost $200 above anyone else's. I've tried B&H, Calumet, Sammy's... everyone I could think of.
Oh yeah, phone... and actually talk to some one... how quaint!
Thanks again, John. Let's hope it's still in stock Tuesday!
I spent an hour on Google chasing this lens around, and it seems the only places that stil have it in stock KNOW that they are the only places that still have it in stock--prices approaching $1800!
Damn Nikon USA! I've been lusting after this glass since it came out. I finally saved the pennies to get one, and it's OUT OF STOCK!!! And it looks to be a supply-side problem.
It must be a sellers market right now. On e-Bay a used one is at $1375 with a day left. A grey market new one is asking more than a USA minus rebate. It might be best to be to sit back a while until someone reputable gets one in stock. I'm sure Kendrick won't mine loaning his out for the rest of the year.
I've heard only good things about KEH, and I think I'll be doing some business with them Tuesday if the lens is still availible! Not to mention all the other great lenses there... I really should reserve cruising that list for times when I'm broke and can only dream--because now I'll be broke again very soon.
Alan, this lens is just too techie and pricey to contemplate buying used from someone I don't know. Unless I can find an absolute killer deal--like half new--I'd rather have a Nikon USA and full warranty. And unfortunately, K is taking off in a week or so for most of the winter... makes talking him into buying a bunch of fine Nikkor a little less useful.
Just placed my order from KEH. $1650, before rebate.
Samy's camera also had one, but I had to e-mail to find out if it was in stock, and then was given a price of $1615 "minus rebate", like the price from J&R above.
What's "minus rebate"? My assumption is that this means "after rebate". I may be wrong, but when sales people use terms that are less than chrystal clear.....
hi... I just got my 70-200VR and yes...paid too much because no one has it...
I call it conspiracy..just kidding...
I used to order everything from b&H and now they are out of a lot of stuff...
Maybe Nikon is going to make a better lense..well I did not want to wait...
got it at Ritz..
good luck...
Berry's Camera Shop in Lafayette IN has one in stock listed for $1699 (at least this AM) - great family run business (765) 742-0297
You might also try Roberts of Indianapolis - good service.
