That saved my wallet.
Unfortunately, it left my wallet lighter. I decided to re-acquire a 12-40 f2.8 Pro after selling my first one when I bought the 12-100. I've been missing it, but didn't want to pay more than I sold my first one for. That made it tough because I sold it fairly low. But, the refurbed one with the sale coupon just made the threshold.
Mike Johnston (theonlinephotographer) once recommended never selling good glass. Well, I did and ended up buying it back. Hahaha... It was out of stock by 9 am (HST), but they must have restocked because it was back on the list.
Perhaps if you are that OCD, the outlet store where refurbished items are sold is not for you? These are items that have been removed from the packaging at one point and then repackages for starters. Some may have been briefly handled in a store or by a customer. Dust happens.
Olympus does say that refurbished items may show minor cosmetic blemishes, etc. However, almost all of the items I got from their outlet have been near perfect cosmetically. The main thing is if it works! I only got one thing that was DOA, a 25 f1.8. I contacted them and they gave me the option of a return and refund, or repair. I sent it for repair, and they returned it in only one week and reimbursed my shipping. Woo hoo!
I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on this camera after using it a bit. I had the em10iii as my first mft camera. I liked it a lot but moved on to other mft cameras. I miss its portability. I was thinking of either the mark iii or iv as a future 2nd camera.
I thought it was more than dust, but looks like it was just dust. It looks good now.
I like the camera. It is the black edition, and for $280 delivered there are no complaints. I like the processing engine and for walking around purposes, the small size with the Panasonic 12-32 (or other pancake-like lens) is perfect. Admittedly, I haven't taken too many shots yet, but it takes credible photos inside and outside.
