GrumpyOldGuy
Contributor
Well, Island Time is correct, maintaining a dealer network and keeping them making money does cost big $$$. I am pleased to let him and other like him underwrite the cost of the network, that is his choice......
Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. Registration is not required to read the forums, but we encourage you to join. Joining has its benefits and enables you to participate in the discussions.
Benefits of registering include
Well, Island Time is correct, maintaining a dealer network and keeping them making money does cost big $$$. I am pleased to let him and other like him underwrite the cost of the network, that is his choice......
That's what makes this country great; freedom of choice. You just can't expect to knowingly buy something for 30% less from a wholesaler and then expect full warranty coverage. If the wholesaler falsely represents their warranty coverage and tells you they will cover you, that is another issue.
"If something seems to good to be true, it probably is"
I looked into buying my new gear with Leisure Pro because their prices were way lower than any retailer was offering. Once I asked them if they were an AUTHORIZED dealer, they said no. At that point, I went into Force E which I know to be a well established shop that will be around to offer support and service my product- I'm OK with paying a bit more for that. I work in the marine electronics field and we deal with this kind of thing often. Many times, boaters would rather go to West Marine or order their electronics online and install things on their own to save money. Maintaining a dealer network costs big money and it is in place to protect both the integrity of the manufacturer and to protect the consumer as well. Saving money is great, but most of the time it will run you about the same in the end if not more.