Nikon Europe issued a service notice regarding fraudulently modified D800 to D800E DSLR cameras. After the D810 announcement, D800/E prices have dropped significantly – if you are buying a used D800E camera, make sure to check the camera model inside the menu – don’t trust the outside markings:
Notice regarding fraudulent Nikon D800E digital SLR (fraudulently modified D800) cameras
We have confirmed that there are cases in which D800E digital SLR cameras were received for repair, only to find that the cameras were actually fraudulently modified D800 cameras whose covers had been replaced with D800E covers. It seems that these fraudulently modified products are in circulation via Internet auctions and the like. As the Nikon warranty does not apply to fraudulently modified products, Nikon will not inspect or repair such products. In addition, Nikon cannot be held responsible in any way regarding the use of fraudulently modified products. Please take all necessary precautions to ensure the authenticity of a camera before purchasing one.
Identifying these fraudulently modified cameras
Display an image captured with your camera in the camera monitor. When the overview* display option is enabled in full-frame playback mode, the name of the camera used to capture the image is displayed in the top right corner. If “NIKON D800E” is displayed, your camera is an authentic D800E. If any other name is displayed, your camera is a fraudulent D800E.
*See the D800/D800E User’s Manual for instructions on enabling overview display.
Refurbished Nikon D800E cameras are now available for $2,299.95.
