Filters from eBay?

I consider buying a CPL filter (so I can take a picture through a window) and potentially a graduated neutral filter.

I found a huge difference in prices though. I thought about Hoya filters (B+W are rather too expensive for me), 67mm (so they fit DA 16-45mm lens). Then in few internet shops I saw the prices for Hoya Pro1-D filter about £60-£100, while on eBay they are about £35-£60 (ie http://tinyurl.com/743x3n or http://tinyurl.com/9g9epv ).

Anyone bought them? Are they genuine? The price difference is huge and I'm tempted, but...

I bought various Hoya filters (including Pro ones) from various eBay sellers, and they seem fine.

I can well believe the items are genuine and only usually more expensive because there is a large mark-up on these sorts of items. It is easy for a specialist small trader with low overheads buying direct from the far east, especially those based in the far east, to undercut regular dealers here.

I think the Pro versions of the filters are thinner than the normal versions, not necessarily better in every way. Thin filters reduce weight and may prevent vignetting on wide-angle lenses, but otherwise you don't need them.

Remember that you may have to pay import duty + VAT + handling charge on items bought outside the EU once the value is over a certain small limit. (About £18, iirc). So I would only buy the cheapest models of filters from HK; others from UK.

I have bought quite a few filters on ebay over the last few years, 90% all good branded (Hoya etc) examples. As Pete says the 'pro' versions seem to be just thinner/lighter versions. I would not be without my Hoya CP and my grey grad filters, a hangover from film days - but I find the useful. There are many good ebay sellers in the UK - just look at thier DETAILED feedback!

I see, that's good to know. I'm aware of the import duty issue, so I'd prefer to buy from the UK-based seller. Some of the HK based sellers write 'duty free', but I'm not sure if it is so and how's that possible.

With the differences between Pro and 'standard' Hoya states that the coating differs and lets more light through and reduce reflections:

http://www.hoyafilter.com/products/hoya/coatings.html

I use a Pentax CPL £15 on ebay BNIB. They do turn up.

They mark the item as a "gift" on the customs form. That probably will allow it to slip through the net, though you are committing a criminal offence by accepting it. I can't imagine anyone being prosecuted for such a low-value item, though.

Hmmm. It seems to be a better solution to order from the UK based seller then.

I know this sounds unbeleivable, but 7dayshop do a CPL in 67mm for £4.99 and free post!

I ordered one in 52mm for the 18-55 zoom thinking that it may not be up to much, but at £4.19 inc postage I'd give it a go!

Well it seems to work ok for me, apart from a boldish "7dayshop.com" round the edge of it, can't fault it!

Give it a go for a fiver, if you don't like it you can always double your money by selling it on ebay.