Camera lens repair/replace
 

I have a Panasonic DMC-ZS5 with a Leica lens. The lens has a 3/32" surface scratch right in the center, and two dust motes in between the lenses. I believe that the scratch and maybe the dust are compromising the quality of my photos.

Has anyone had success with having a lens replaced and "tuned up"? My concern would be that the replacement lens would not be a Leica, but rather a lens of lesser quality. The estimate that I got from Precision Cameras was 120.00 + shipping. (I really, really, like this camera!)

Thanks iLand - Good information, but it gives me pause. I already have a Used Camera. If I get another from eBay, will it be better than what I have? For sure? What do I do with the camera that I have? I can't just throw it away. That would really go against the grain.

At some point, I may have to get in step with the rest of our throw-away society, but for the moment I am going to resist.