I just got back from Hong Kong. I visited a few of the shops on the list. Here's my frank feedback:
1. Tin Cheung Camera (天祥攝影器材公司
Mongkok branch
I was dissapointed because I felt that they were not honest with their business. Their opening prices are higher (which can be expected) but they came up with odd excuses. Here's why I say so: I was looking at the Manfrotto 190CXPRO3 tripod. On their website, it is listed as
HK$2,176. When I visited their store, they quoted me HK$2,700. I asked why there was a difference. They were first stunned (I guess they didn't expect me to have checked their website) and then claimed that it was because the product on their website is a gray market product!
Then, I asked about the 190CXPRO4 tripod which, on their website is listed as
HK$2,805. Given the small price difference, I was prepared to consider the 190CXPRO4 instead. Next, they tell me that the price is a cash price only. Credit card price is higher. Apparently, with a credit card, the price is HK$2,860. I was disgusted!
2. Wing Shing Photo Supplies (永成攝影器材 - Mongkok branch
I was very happy with this store. They were upfront and completely candid about their products. There was a young chap there by the name of Felix who was very helpful. He asked what my needs were, explained why a more expensive tripod was not necessary given my needs and really, I should just opt for something which fits my requirements and is reasonably priced. He could've just let me pay more for something and earn a higher commission (I'm guessing that's the case) but he didn't. I really appreciated the transparency and helpful behaviour.
There was also no difference in price in relation to mode of payment. What they quote to you is the price you pay, regardless of whether you pay with a credit card or bring a wad of cash. Their opening price was already pretty good, e.g. the 190CXPRO4 was HK$2,800 (cheaper than Tin Cheung by HK$5). I found, however, that there's little room for negotiation but it's likely because I didn't try hard enough. Regardless, I'm happy to pay a bit more for their honesty. I felt better treated.
In terms of products, it's a camera-buyer's dream-come-true. They have an endless supply of cameras, lenses, accessories, bags etc.
3. Photo Scientific - Stanley Street, Central
A small shop on Stanley St (a few doors away from the famous Luk Yu Tea House institution) but it seems like it's been there for a long time. Small'ish selection but they are really helpful. I picked up Kata and tripod bags from them. Decent price and somewhat negotiable. Their opening prices are a little high (e.g. Manfrotto 190CXPRO4 tripod was going for HK$2870) but again, is negotiable. No difference if you pay by credit card or cash.
All in all, Hong Kong is a great place to pick up a camera, supplies, accessories etc. I love it. I recommend doing some homework (which I didn't do as much of and regret). CS Tan's thread is amazing and a real life-saver. Without it, I'd like be scalped a lot more than I was
