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Grading Scale |
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This is a
standard scale by which to describe the physical condition of an item.
By using the Photogon Grading Scale (PGS) you will accurately convey to buyers
the physical condition of your item. Buyers do not like surprises; thus if every
seller uses the same criteria to describe their items, the opportunity for
receiving higher offers will increase dramatically. |
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10 / 10 - Mint
- Perfect physical condition,
factory fresh! |
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The word
"mint" is used so often that it's meaning is taken for granted. In
the Photogon Grading Scale, Mint can be used to describe an item if it meets the
following criteria without exception.
The item must have been removed from its' original packing and used for less
than one year. The one year or less of usage is a MUST since subtle
environmental contact such as finger skin oils, household chemicals, smoke, and
other airborne pollutants can negatively impact equipment. The result of
this kind of exposure is a discoloration of the equipment's surfaces.
Thus must be no visible scratches, nicks, or blemishes anywhere on the piece.
Chrome and other metallic highlights should have absolutely no pitting or
discoloration, especially around screwheads and hinges.
Very few pre-owned items qualify for this level, so we strongly recommend a
thorough inspection of the item before rating it a 10/10. |
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9 / 10 - Excellent
- Perfect physical condition, no
scratches, nicks, or blemishes. |
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This rating is for
pieces that are near mint condition, used perhaps 1-3 years, without any
scratches, nicks, or blemishes. The item should be a one-owner or
store-demo piece to qualify for a 9/10. The item should look factory fresh
except for dust in crevices. All glass must be perfect, and metal should appear
well new. |
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8 / 10
- Very good
- 1 minor flaw is acceptable. |
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The item may show some
use, but it must be obviously well cared for. One minor scuff or small
nick is acceptable, but not of the type that appear when dropped or heavily
jostled. Lenses should have perfect glass, but the case may show some use. |
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7 /
10 - Good - 1 or 2 minor
scratches, looks used but well maintained. |
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This item should have
no dents or bulges, but a few minor scratches, and perhaps a little wear on
knobs and buttons, like the slightly darker or shiny coloration seen where the
item is handled. Glass must have no more than one thin scratch less than
1/2" long. Chrome may show slight pitting, but not enough to be visible
without close inspection. Silk-screening and lettering is separating
within at most one area of less than 1/2" diameter. Mechanicals
should work well, without excessive force being necessary. |
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6 /
10 - Fair - 3 to 4 minor
scratches, or 1 major scratch, appears used. |
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The item may have some
nicks along the edges, along with noticeable discoloration on the control
surfaces. Chrome may show obvious pitting, but should not have any
flakes. Silk-screening is missing in more than one area, and some
lettering is worn off. All mechanicals should be functional. |
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| 5
/ 10 - Average -
multiple scratches, including some on the front facia. |
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This piece is visibly
scratched and noticeably used, but generally functioning well. All
critical functions should be working, but one minor part might be worn or
nonfunctional. |
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| 4 /
10 - Mediocre - rough physical, most
mechanicals functioning. |
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This piece has seen
extensive use, perhaps by several owners. |
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| 3 /
10 - Poor - rather beat up,
parts missing. |
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| 2 /
10 - Very Poor - beat up, bent knobs
or switch levers, some functional problems. |
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| 1 /
10 - Shot - for parts use only. |
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