Problematic EOS R1: AF issues on one, oil spots on another

[Astoria59]

I ordered and received an R1 two weeks ago. Second time out, the camera intermittently lost AF capabilities until I shut it off and back on. Then it worked again, for a short time. It was a wash, rinse repeat anytime I took it out, over the course of three days. It was sent back to the place of purchase for a replacement R1. I received the replacement yesterday. I have taken it out two times using two different lenses on it. Virtually every single image contains what looks to be oil on the sensor. Two donut shaped spots, highly visible in the right and center of the frame. Again, right out of the box. What is going on with quality control that they don’t recognize the LACK of quality. Now, I am out over 12k as these faulty, flagship camera bodies make there way back to the place of purchase and my money is floating around in ‘refund-land’. And, I have no camera body…I’m angry. If I didn’t have so much invested in Canon glass I’d bail on Canon..

[shadowsports]

Where did you purchase the original body from?  Are they a Canon authorized dealer.  Please provide the identity of the seller.  

[Astoria59]

I purchased and received the replacement to the original from B&H

[shadowsports]

Greetings,

I probably purchase about 90% of my gear from B&H.  They are an authorized Canon dealer and a very reputable retailer.  While inconvenient, I am certain you will get your money back.  Having issues with two brand new purchases in a row is extremely uncommon.  Canon has extremely high quality standards.  Without images, it's very hard for us to comment on your experience.  I hope you documented both interactions.  

Do you plan to give B&H another chance?

Have you considered ordering directly from Canon?  

[Astoria59]

Yes, it has been arranged with B&H for the return of this body and a third try with another R1. I, too, have bought from B&H for many years and never doubted they would make it right. I have enclosed 1 image showing the oil on the sensor.

[LeeP]

You have only 1 camera body normally? If I'm understanding you correctly, you spent $6K on an R1, sent it back for a refund and dropped another $6K on a second R1?  I'm sure B&H will resolve this to your satisfaction given my experience with them, but why not grab an R8 as a backup body?

[normadel]

You aren't "out" $12,000.00. You are out $6,000.00. And you won't be out anything if you return it.

Can you look at the sensor (don't touch it) to see if there's anything on it?

Even the excellent B&H Photo does not unpack and inspect a new camera before shipping it to you.. If there's are manufacturing defects they will undoubtedly take it up with Canon.