M3 single stroke to double stroke

[norgas_co]

I know this sounds like a reverse conversion but I enjoy using the two short strokes of a DS camera. Currently considering a later production SS camera (the production year has a significance to me). If I do so, it should go in for CLA and would like to also have it worked on to make it a DS. Has anyone experienced if this is at all possible? Thanks for any info.

 

[sc_rufctr]

Anything is possible with deep enough pockets but I've never heard of anyone going "backwards" like this.

Don't get me wrong... I can see the appeal of the DS M3. 🙂

 

[Mister E]

That would be something to ask Sherry. If nothing else I'm sure she can toss some DS internals in there.

 

[ruby.monkey]

Why, when one can double-stroke a later M3 anyway?

 

[helen.HH]

Not sure.... Though anything is possible

I am waiting to receive an M3 via fedex
Its from 1963 & a DS
With ALL Black Fittings
Love the Feel & Rythem to a DS

Though Odd for a Late model to be a DS
She looks quite Fab from the pixs i have seen
I suspect when they did the black fittings
Perhaps the top Plate was changed ???

 

[Rob-F]

The reason for converting from double- to single-stroke is that the DS mechanisms began to fail. As of some time in the 1950's or '60's or so, replacements were no longer being made, thus all failed DS units were replaced with SS ones. The lack of availability of DS units means it's unlikely that a SS M3 can be converted to DS at this late date.

The winding action is additive. You can take two short strokes, or three shorter ones, or four teeny ones, etc.

 

[norgas_co]

Thanks for all your input. Seems I will have to find out from the tech who will do the cla if they have the parts still available for a conversion. I hope I will not need to tear up a fine functioning DS for it's parts in order to achieve my intentions.

Like was suggested, I had already been making 2 half strokes on the transport of my MP for some time; it was not the same as it's a "pretending" to DS. Almost posted a query back then if it was possible to convert that camera too... I know I'd select a DS option if ever it became available on the a la carte program.

 

[former member]

The Single Stroke mechanism can be used as a double-stroke, just wind it partway and then finish the advance on a second stroke.

Or just buy two M3's: 1 Single Stroke, one Double-Stroke, have the mechanisms switched and then sell the converted single stroke camera.

 

[norgas_co]

Thanks. That sounds like a more "humane" option than disabling a DS or its parts. I always thought that Leica had old stock spares in relative supply, perhaps time has consumed what was previously available.

 

[Tom A]

The DS shutter brake was prone to wearing out ( and it was psrt of the smoothness of the DS). Dont know if there are nay new or little worn ones around. Also I have no idea if rest of the mechanism can be fitted as a DS ( if the SS drive is compatible with the DS brake). Check with Sherry or DAG on this)