Canon 5D Mark II Released in China, Available at Retailers in Beijing

After what has likely seemed like an eternity to those who pre-ordered the new Canon 5D Mark II (though in reality it has only been a little over two months), the first production models of Canon's new 21.1 megapixel full-frame dSLR are now being sold at retail locations. In China, at least. Units have been spotted and purchased in retail shops in Beijing. The photo below (via DPReview forums) shows a Canon 5D Mark II kit being removed from a display case in a Beijing camera shop.

Retailers in China reportedly have the 5D Mark II kits (which includes Canon's 24-105mm L lens) in stores at this point, though supposedly some retailers are willing to break up the kits and sell the body only. Additionally, there remains some speculation that Chinese retailers are selling the 5D Mark II prior to what date Canon has officially authorized. However, regardless of whether Canon approves of the sale, the fact that cameras are in the hands of retailers suggests that retailers in the rest of the world will soon have 5D Mark IIs in their hands as well.

No retailers outside of China seem to have the 5D Mk II in hand, or are keeping things hush-hush if they do. Earlier this week, a rumored "official" release date of Nov 29th for US markets was floating around -- but that also remains unconfirmed.

What number of cameras/bodies Canon plans to ship remains unknown as well. Some US retailers speculate receiving as few as 15-20 5D Mark IIs in their first shipment, while others expect to have healthier stock figures.

Demand for the long-awaited 5D Mk II remains high and retailers continue to recommend that customers pre-order the camera to insure they receive a unit as soon as possible.

Bookmark/Search this post with:

 •    •    •    •    •    •    •