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“Browsing though Grays of Westminster's website is an experience not to be equalled by any measure. In this age of eye-popping web gymnastics, the dignified and classy approach to the customer is indeed refreshing to the spirit. I would expect the in-store experience is even richer. What's more, I live on a different continent, and alas, shoot with a different camera brand. With that, it almost temps me to change my 'religion'. Next time I find myself in London, a visit to 40 Churton St. will be at the top of the list.”
Jim Brandenburg http://www.jimbrandenburg.com/
Photographer Jim Brandenburg has shot images all around the world for National Geographic. His books, such as Brother Wolf and Chased by the Light, have been photographic best-sellers. He is considered one of the premier nature photographers in the world.
“A visit to Grays in the heart of Pimlico is not to be missed.”
Heather Angel
“All the photography was done using a Nikon D800 DSLR together with my trusty old AF Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8D lens, both supplied by Grays of Westminster who have always been available for help and advice on what item to purchase, or for superb after sales service.”
"Dinky Toys - A Pictorial Record" by David J Busfield
“I went to Grays last month to buy an SB-700 Speedlight. I had been wanting to visit the shop for a while but living in France it is not exactly local. I was there with my sister. Just visiting the shop was a real treat, the service was excellent. Having only just changed to Nikon (last year, from Minolta) I am not totally knowledgeable about all of the Nikon products, but just visiting the shop was lesson in Nikon. Probably the poshest photographic shop I have ever been in, probably, certainly even, the most interesting photographic shop I have ever been in. I think it is safe to say that even though I live quite a way from Westminster Grays will have my custom from now on.”
Hélène Anderson
“Grays of Westminster in London continues to lead the UK and Europe in NIKON sales, service, seminars, workshops, magazines and has done so now for over 25 years.
“The exceptional service provided and personal attention to each customer and his unique needs has earned respect from professionals and royalty alike.
“The true professional cares about his gear and the details involved in the purchase, sale or service and the reputation of those he works with as it is a reflection on himself. In this regard, Grays of Westminster has no peer. In other words, Grays is the ONLY place to go to get the most professional gear, service or training.
“Gray Levett and his extremely able and accomplished staff and associates understand the responsibility they have taken on and wear the honor easily. Frankly, they make NIKON look very good and showcase the entire Nikon line past, present and future like no where else in the world.
“If I were NIKON, I would send you multiple awards. Oh wait, they already have done so, numerous times!
“Okay, then I will send you mine:
“I hereby commend Grays of Westminster for 25 years of exceptional service and sales, setting the example for others to follow.
“Thank you for all that you do for us in the Nikon Professional community!”
Michael Doven, NPS (Nikon Professional Services) member
ABOUT THE ARTIST:
Michael Doven has been making striking images since 1977. By the age of 25, Michael had already traveled extensively and logged trips to over 50 countries across the globe.
In 1991 Michael embarked on a twenty year journey in feature film production in Hollywood where he was blessed, being able to watch, study and learn from amongst the greatest directors of photography in the world, while serving as Associate-Producer on many films.
Michaels unique perspective and composition lend a timeless spirituality and vividness to his images. Michael Doven's Fine Art Photography is represented by Christie's International Auctions Worldwide. His editorial and portrait work graces worldwide covers as well and is seen by hundreds of millions. To view more of his works visit:
www.dovengallery.com and michaeldoven.com
“People may not remember what you did for them or even what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel". These are my sentiments after visiting Grays of Westminster for the first time. The exemplary customer service I was offered was the best I can ever remember, not only in a camera shop, but any shop.
“Entering this wonderful quintessential Nikon dealership reminded me of Dr. Who's TARDIS - not very big on the outside but step inside the superbly furnished interior and it is huge! I have never seen so many beautifully presented pieces of camera equipment - a Nikon Aladdin's Cave.
“If you are ever in Pimlico I implore you to visit this ultimate camera emporium, the Vatican of the Nikon world.”
MIKE MALONEY, OBE
“Just a quick note to thank you for the wonderful service I received.
“I ordered a secondhand 105mm f/2.8D AF Micro-Nikkor lens yesterday, over the phone, with the promise that it would be sent out that afternoon, and to arrive on 31/12/2009. The lady I spoke to was helpful and very knowledgeable about the lens.
“It arrived today about 09:45. As described, it was in mint condition, with the box and instruction manual.
“It is so nice to deal with people that have been taught what good service means; ultimately customers return and it's not about ticking a box to say you've completed a training course. It's about picking the right people who have the right attitude, and then training them really well. Grays of Westminster seem to understand this philosophy. The only other place where service has always been brilliant is the USA where good customer service seems to be the norm.
“Please feel free to publish this on the testimonials page.”
AJB, Swindon, Wiltshire
“It is very comforting to know that companies such as Grays of Westminster still exist. I would like to thank and congratulate you on both the level of expert advice and service I have received and look forward to further dealings.
“Many Thanks,”
Email: Gary Tombs
“I just wanted to write and express my thanks for your wonderful help and support.
“Whilst I am fully aware of the Grays exemplary customer service, it is always a pleasure to be in direct receipt. I am only a very keen amateur but for years I had yearned for a Nikon and then the day came when I could afford to purchase a F100. Of course, having heard about your reputation, I wanted to buy from you so on a rather dismal morning, I came down from London and tentatively entered the shop to be welcomed by Gray himself and thus had what I perceive to be the honour to be served by him.
“There were many other customers in the shop at the time and I am sure he could have rushed me through to deal with more important people but he gave me his full attention and time and made me feel I was his only and most important customer. I still use my F100 and have over the years often emailed for advice. My correspondence has always been promptly and fully responded to.
“A couple of years ago I purchased a D80 but was impatient and bought this from a local camera shop as I was not due to be in London for a while. What a mistake. The original D80 sold to me was faulty and it took a lot of visits to the shop and complaints before they replaced it. In future I will never buy any Nikon equipment anywhere but Grays.
“Last week I decided to buy a classic Nikon and narrowed down my search on your website to either an FM2n or a F3 so emailed to ask for advice. I received a prompt reply from Toni Kowal which helped me decide on the F3. I phoned to place my order at about 3.20pm on a Friday and the camera was on my doorstep at 7.30am the following morning. WOW. The whole experience was made very pleasant, Toni was helpful and courteous throughout. Above all I LOVE the F3. It is beautiful and handles wonderfully. It also looks new. I knew I could trust your grading. I am going to have a lot of pleasure using the F3. It made me realize I quite miss using a manual camera, the only drawback is not being able to view photos immediately.
“Anyhow thank you so much for your wonderful service and I will definitely visit your shop when I come to upgrade by D80 just for the sheer pleasure of shopping in such an esteemed, classy and helpful environment where nothing is too much trouble.”
Email: Veronica Lynch
“I would like to thank you and your staff for the past 7 years of consistent quality service. Every year after our mission trip to Kenya we stop through London on the way back to the Los Angeles, California in the USA. One of my favourite destinations during our two-day visit to London is Grays of Westminster. Each and every year your staff treats me with respect and courtesy. As a result I would like to send you this photo of one of your very patient staff (his name escapes me) I do know Uri (Zakay) though:). Uri and this gentleman (Bron Kowal) were quietly helpful and dutifully attentive. If you feel this worthy of placing on your website or any publication feel free to do so as a testimony on the quality service Grays of Westminster provides.”
Pastor Ronald K. Pollard, Director of Heritage Missions, USA.
“Thank you for your sterling efforts in posting the DR-4 angle finder. It arrived early this morning (around 07:35), so I think this deserves my heartfelt commendation. I also feel that service of this level is such that it deserves my continued patronage for any future items I may need for my photographic pursuits.
“I only wish that the company I purchased my computer from, could have worked so immaculately, i.e. in 'going the extra mile'.
“Once more, thanks for your sterling efforts.”
Email: Peter Mann
“A few years ago, I wrote to thank you for the great service that I received when I visited Grays of Westminster. I was amazed that you had two Nikon items in stock that I'd been unable to find anywhere else. The attention and assistance that I received from Uri Zakay was outstanding.
“Recently, I have been searching for a spare battery chamber cover for my Nikon D2x (Part number BL-1). While travelling in the USA and Canada, as well as here in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, all of the Nikon dealers that I visited failed miserably as they didn't know which part I was asking for, and once they figured it out, they didn't have it in stock and had no intention of ordering it.
“I sent an e-mail to Grays and Uri replied that day, confirming that you had the cover in stock. On August 16th, I called your International Order number and ordered the part over the phone. I talked to Nick and he immediately handled all of the details, and was a real pleasure to talk to. Nick assured me that the part would be shipped that day and it would arrive in Riyadh shortly. I made a joke about that statement because the postal service here is notoriously slow. I was amazed when the package arrived today (August 22nd). Anything arriving in less than a week is simply incredible here in Riyadh.
“Thank you once again for your brilliant service, and the customer relations skills of your staff. The next time I need something for my Nikon cameras, I'll start my search with Grays of Westminster.”
Email: John P. Wiese, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
“On behalf of Hanne Blanchard and myself I am writing to thank you and everyone for organising a superb Heather Angel Workshop at Saint Hill Manor. It was the first time we have attended such an event and am already looking forward to next years! Everyone was so friendly and helpful.
“Once again many thanks for an enjoyable day out.
“Best wishes,”
Email: Clive Botwright
“I had the pleasure of attending my first Heather Angel Workshop at Saint Hill Manor on the 30th July. It was an extremely enjoyable day, I'll look forward to booking for next year's event!
“However the main reason for this email is to thank you and your staff for more outstanding service. On the day of the workshop, after trying out a 12-24mm lens from the Nikon stand, I purchased a lens from you, as always your staff were extremely helpful. My lens and ExpoDisc arrived securely packed, last Thursday. Its an amazing lens and one that I will put to good use along with my ExpoDisc, this September when I visit the Eden Project in Cornwall.
“Once again many thanks and all best wishes to you and all at Grays of Westminster.”
Email: Richard Griffith
“I would just like to thank you personally, Gray, for the excellent service you have provided with the outfit I purchased yesterday.
“I have received my D2XS, 17-55mm, 70-200mm, 60mm Micro and SB-800.
“I hope to continue using Grays for many years to come and when I come to London for a trip which is due, I will make sure I will visit Grays in person.
“Once again, Thank you.”
Email: Jonathan Fletcher.
“Dear All at Grays,
“Must say thank you for dispatching my D200 plus 18-35mm lens (in great condition) yesterday ahead of schedule. What a lovely surprise to be awoken by Royal Mail to receive a parcel which wasn't expected until Friday. Thanks to Ani for helpful and polite service. So rare these days.
“Many thanks,”
Email: Avril Searle
“PS. What a great camera!”
“I'm sending a quick email just to say thank you for the great service I received yesterday.
“I rang mid afternoon searching for a couple of spare batteries and charger for my D200, which I needed pretty urgently. I spoke to Natalie, who gave me prices and availability, told me I would receive the goods the next morning, and took my order, which duly arrived today at quarter to eight. Although I must give some credit to the Post Office for their part, I'm really impressed.
“At the risk of sounding like an old man, which I'm not, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find companies which give good service and deliver on their promises. You have done both so well done and thank you.”
Email: Martin Hambleton
“The goods were ordered over the phone yesterday afternoon (27th March) and arrived this morning at 9.10 a.m. Preliminary examination shows that your definition of mint- provides goods of exceptional quality.
“Thank you for the prompt service, you have yet another satisfied customer.”
Email: Michael Shaw
“Finally got round to reading your Grays of Westminster - In the Company of Legends book - EXCELLENT. Read it in 2 days - just couldn't put it down, wonderfully written and illustrated with many fascinating stories. The general theme throughout the book is of the superb customer service which all at Grays' offer, something which I have had the pleasure of experiencing! As a dedicated Nikon user for me there is only one place I will purchase my Nikon equipment from - Grays of Westminster.
“Thank You to all at Grays and long may the business continue.
“Best Wishes,”
Richard Griffith
“Just a short email to thank you for your outstanding service.
“I purchased a secondhand 400mm f/2.8 AF-S Nikkor lens and TC-20E just before 4.00 p.m. on Friday, 9th June and was signing the delivery slips at 8.30 a.m. on Saturday, 10th June. I can not express my delight at both the service and condition of the equipment.
“I look forward to doing business with you in the future.
“Very best regards,”
Ian MacGregor
“A huge thank you to your staff for the unbelievably exceptional service I received from you this week. I mailed my faulty D100 to you at 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday and had a replacement in my hand at 7.00 a.m. on Thursday. It just doesn't get any better than that. And there I was, concerned that my camera wouldn't be ready by 2nd July! All I can say is thank you.”
Carolyn Wheeler, Oxford.
“Thank you for the service you have shown to me by getting the D100 that I ordered from you yesterday at 10:30 a.m. I was delighted with it's arrival at 8:30 a.m. this morning. A truly first class service.
“Once again your reputation has to be experienced to be believed.
“Kind regards,”
Iain Davidson
“A short note to say thank you.
“I've exchanged several emails with you about new and used D70s and spoke to your colleague on Monday morning with the result that I ordered a pre-owned D70s body. Much to my delight, it arrived today.
“I have yet to test it fully, but on first opening the box I have to say I am struggling to believe it is a 'used' item - it looks new in absolutely every way. I'd read in various on-line forums about the outstanding service Grays provide and had also read your 'Welcome' page. So often these 'Welcome' pages and online reviews go a little overboard, but I can absolutely say that in this case all that I've read has been true. I am impressed beyond words at the quality of the item I've bought from you and knowing it has a 12 month warranty gives me the peace of mind I need.
“It is so rare these days to find a retailer whose actions match their words, but in Grays of Westminster I think such a retailer does exist. I shall not hesitate to buy from you again.
“Regards,”
David Potts
“Just a quick note to thank you for your superlative service last week...I needed the D200 quickly and you did just that...a feat especially when everyone else it seems had no stock of the camera at all!!! It arrived the next morning as promised! Many thanks indeed.
“Many thanks,”
Rafiq Singe
“I would just like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your excellent service. My HB-7 Lens Hood and BM-3 monitor cover arrived today Thursday by mail all well and good. Once again well done!!!
“Best Regards,”
Peter J Palmer, First Frame Photography
“I just wanted to thank you and the team at Grays of Westminster for your excellent service. I ordered a secondhand D70s and 18-70mm lens kit from you late on Thursday afternoon and the lady I spoke to on the phone said that the camera was likely to be with me on Saturday or Monday as it was too late to catch the post. To my amazement on returning from work yesterday (Friday) the postman had tried to deliver the camera! As ever the items were expertly packed and matched the description of mint condition.
“I cannot think of another company I would confidently buy something secondhand from without seeing the item first.
“Thank you once again.
“Yours sincerely,”
Email: Dave Rogers
“I just wanted to let you know that the Nikon HK-5 hood arrived today. I had been searching for this for months until I came across your website (thru Google). I want to really thank you and everybody at Grays for your quick response and truly excellent service! I will highly recommend your shop to everyone I know.
“Thanks again,”
Shawn Johnston, U.S.A.
“I am writing to you to offer my thanks and appreciation in obtaining a Nikon WT-1 user manual which you kindly sent on 6th January.
“When I purchased this item from you in early December the only thing missing was the instruction manual. However, a website addressed was enclosed to enable a copy to be downloaded. This proved to be unsuccessful!
“After trying to locate one from Oldtimer Cameras, which drew a blank, I wrote to Tad the salesman, asking if it was possible to get the manual for me. I was contacted by a gentleman, informing me that he was Tad’s father, and that locating the WT-1 manual was not something to become available in the immediate future.
“I reassured him that if anyone could obtain one, Grays of Westminster could, but I felt that I was in for a long spell of waiting to hear from you again.
“So may I take this opportunity to once again thank you friendly and cooperative staff, and also Grays of Westminster who truly are the No 1 NIKON DEALER. I look for ward to giving you future business with complete confidence.”
Jeffrey Mullen, County Durham
40 Churton Street
Pimlico, London
SW1V 2LP, England
Telephone: +44 (0)20-7828 4925
E-mail: info@graysofwestminster.co.uk
Opening hours:
Mon - Fri: 10:00am - 5:30pm
Closed on Public and Bank Holidays
Registered in
England & Wales.
Registered office:
40 Churton Street
Pimlico, London
SW1V 2LP, England
Company Reg. No. 5652450
VAT No. 872 2684 03