The camera market has a very peculiar way of showcasing ongoing trends. While we all have seen a massive drop in some of the most sought-after cameras, thanks to rebates, we have also come across instances where cameras sell for a much higher rate than their original pricing. For instance, Fujifilm and their collaboration with Taylor Swift saw a massive rise in camera prices following their launch. Similarly, Leica continues to sell for more than its initial price. However, what is rather odd is to see how this Nikon camera, which was quite questionable, has managed to achieve a similar feat.
The announcement was first reported by Nikon Rumors, who noticed a sharp price increase in the camera. Originally launched in 2018, the Nikon P1000 was a peculiar camera. It offered a 16MP 1/2.3 inch sensor, but a 125x optical zoom (which the company stated is equivalent to a staggering 6000mm from macro to extreme distances) is what made matters worse. The Phoblographer did not review the device at that time because the P1000 simply didn’t make any sense. To make matters worse, it was priced at $1000. Anyone who enjoys wildlife or bird photography knows that an APS-C camera with a decent third-party zoom could do a better job, thanks to the sensor and optics. A compact with a bazooka lens, well, that’s an absolute no.
While it seemed the Nikon P1000 was left in the past where it belonged, many websites that sell refurbished or used devices noticed a rise in its price. For instance, on Amazon, the P1000 ranges between $1,498 and 1,855. On eBay, it is available for $2,149; on Newegg, it’s priced at $2,299. Look at the images below:
One of the reasons for this could be the discontinuation, which happened last year. But again, it was not a device that sold too well for the company. First, it was the massive size that made the device an antithesis of what a compact should be. It measured 118mm and weighed 1415g. It certainly was not a camera that could counsel you in a crowd or in the bushes. Then there was the sensor, which was an issue, even hypothetically speaking. So, anyone suggesting the camera for purchase probably did not speak in their right senses.
But today, when the compact camera market is seeing a new resurgence amidst Gen Z, there could be a possibility that the device is gaining such a price bump. Perhaps people want to buy it as a piece of history because, let’s face it, it really was the “first of its kind,” and we do hope, the last, too. There is also a possibility that since the vintage camera market is booming, people who have already purchased the device are driving up the prices, seeing the demand. As we reported earlier, Japan saw a 20x rise in digital compact cameras purely because they are no longer in production. So many retail stores that cater to vintage cameras have seen many demands for certain devices. Again, this was mostly for compact, small, adorable cameras with a distinct aesthetic of the early 2000s. We doubt the same can be said for P1000.
Despite our assumptions, it is safe to say that compact cameras are truly where the future of the photography industry lies. They were the perfect bridge devices for anyone who wished to become a photographer, and even today, this notion continues to persist. Perhaps that’s why Nikon is rumored to revive the P series, but I would not take it too seriously if I were you.