Is Panasonic gear's reliability and durability levels comparable to Canon/Nikon gear?

CaMeRa QuEsT wrote:

In the fence here for a G7 kit and perhaps a 42.5 f/1.7. Have only ever bought gear from "traditional" camera manufacturers: Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Olympus, Fuji, Minolta, and had never had reliability or durability problems from any of them, even after a drop or two onto concrete ground. Sony and Panasonic are not traditional camera manufacturers: I saw that lack of experience in the Sony A7's wobbling lens mount and I have seen several old, used Lumix compact cameras that looked like gadgets ready to be thrown to the trash rather than the optical tools made to last decades that I am accustomed to see from the traditional camera manufacturers. Already I've seen that all silver G7s sold on ebay have their paint finish chipped in some way or another. So, I feel there is a big question mark hanging over Panasonic regarding reliability and durability. How has been your experience with your Panasonic gear in these regards?

I wouldn't worry about the reliability of Panasonic (or Olympus) cameras subjected to normal use.  I have had several and never any problems.  Most cameras aren't made to last decades anymore.   Sure pro level cameras from Canon or Nikon are going to stand up to abuse better than any other brands.  The pros use them for a reason.  For your everyday Joe shooting a Panasonic or Olympus that is handled with normal regard fro it's well being should do just fine.