I recently got back into diving when I discovered Dutch Springs, PA was less than an hour away. When I checked the DS website, one of the requirements was that every diver must have a timing device. Since I had given my dive watch to my son years earlier, I had to get one. I decided to go straight for the dive computer rather than get a watch now and a computer later.
So I did my research, decided on the model, then shopped prices online. LeisurePro came out with the lowest price so I bought from them.
What I did NOT understand was that I was not going to get the Oceanic warranty with the computer. Instead, I got a LeisurePro warranty. Is this a bad thing? I don't know and I hope that I won't ever find out.
Since then I have become aware of the so called third party resellers/support your LDS issues, and have bought all my new equipement (Christmas present for myself...27 days till Christmas...)
Two conclusions: first, I could look at/rent the equipement (which I did twice and the LDS subtracted the rental cost from my purchase price!). I tried on the equipment, different BCs, etc, AND I believe that the gave me a good price AND treated me nice. I now consider them to be my LDS.
Second, LP (and other online stores) still have the lowest prices. And Leisure Pro treated me VERY well on the phone when I bought the computer. I would not hesitate to buy from them again, if it was the bet choice.
Third (okay, I know I said 'two' but I'm adding a 'third'), I WANT MY LDS TO STAY IN BUSINESS! They are only 1 mile from Dutch Springs (my 'home field') - their name is Lehigh Valley Dive Center, I pass them on the way to DS....If I ever have a problem with my equipment, I can drop it off for repair on my way home, then pick it up on my next dive trip to DS
Just can't do that with the online stores so I will probably limit what I purchase from them to items that will not likely need servicing.