“But i can get it cheaper on ebay” - how trying to save money on a film camera can cost you more in the end

Everything has a price.

Film cameras are no exception. With demand for vintage cameras on the rise, prices have naturally shot up, too. And since just staying alive is expensive enough as it is, it makes total sense to keep costs down where we can. We all want to feel like we’re getting the best bang for our buck, right? But when it comes to buying something second-hand, do we actually know how to assess its true value?

A few years back, around 2020, a friend of mine needed a new car. I’d had my fair share of car troubles, so I suggested he check out a dealership or garage - y’know, see what he could get for his money and maybe even score some aftercare perks. He shut me down instantly: “Car dealers are just scalpers. They buy cheap, do nothing, then sell for a huge markup. I can get one cheaper on Facebook Marketplace.”

And you know what? He did. He found a few promising options way below dealership prices and arranged some viewings. Eventually, he landed on a 2006 Mini Cooper with low mileage. The seller assured him it had “no known issues and drives well,” and after a quick once-over (turning the engine on and nodding approvingly), my friend handed over the cash. He was thrilled. “If I’d bought from a dealer, I’d be two grand poorer!” he told me, buzzing with pride.

Fast forward a couple of weeks. He had a big road trip planned - South of England to the edge of Scotland. He set off, full of confidence… until 200 miles in, when his timing belt snapped. The engine was completely done for.

Turns out, the previous owner had only ever taken it on short trips. The car had barely been used, so while it seemed fine, lurking beneath the surface were problems just waiting for the right moment to make themselves known. My friend hadn’t spotted anything wrong because he didn’t know what to look for. That “great deal” ended up costing him way more - money, time, confidence, and a whole lot of frustration. In the end, he went to a dealership, where they walked him through everything. Lesson learned.

What do cars have to do with cameras?

Now, I know cars and film cameras aren’t the same thing. But when you break it down, both are complex machines that need maintenance to function properly. Both have parts that degrade, moving pieces that seize up, and internals that can get downright nasty after decades of use. And, much like my friend with his Mini, most people don’t know what to look for under the hood.

Most cameras you’ll find on eBay have gone decades, without a proper service, if ever at all. Sellers often base their prices on what they see others listing for, usually picking a number close to the highest one they find. You’ll see descriptions like “film tested” (which is basically the camera version of “it drove fine last time I used it”) or “great condition for its age” (which could mean anything). What you won’t get? Any real insight into the camera’s actual condition or a guarantee that it won’t fail you at the worst possible moment.

When I sell a camera, it’s been taken apart, cleaned, lubricated, and adjusted. Every function is tested and calibrated using equipment made for the job. I can show you proof of the work I’ve done and back it with a solid guarantee. No guesswork, no gambling. But yes, that means my prices and the prices of others in the industry like me are higher than your average eBay listing. I used to get irritated when people told me, “Your cameras are overpriced; I can get the same one cheaper on eBay.”

I used to take it personally.

But here and now I don’t. Because it’s not personal at all. I just think back to my friend’s Mini and sincerely wish them luck. I offer to answer any questions they have about buying a camera, because the truth is - they won’t find the same quality, service, or guarantee for cheaper on eBay. It’s not the same. And sure, that eBay camera might work fine… for a while. But just because something runs for a few rolls doesn’t mean it’s in good shape.

I’m not trying to sell you anything either - please don’t think that. I’d like more people who get into shooting film to have an easier and more streamlined experience. Placing value on something second-hand isn’t just about price - it’s about valuing your own time and experience. Confidence in your camera matters. Knowing it’s in great working order, avoiding future disappointment or unexpected repair costs, and having a guaranteed solution if something goes wrong? That’s priceless.