The thing I don't understand is how this camera used(likely heavily) by a photojournalist, has a hell of a lot less brassing then some of the cameras posted in the threads on that topic.
Kinda just cements my idea that most of those people are putting their cameras in unnatural situations to get the heavy brassing one sees here on occasion.
Article said Leica made four (4) for him.
This camera might be a backup (or a backup for a backup).
Hell, it might not have taken any of the pictures he's known for.
I mean, I'm sure there's a way to know or not: did he get all the cameras simultaneously, or were they ordered individually (or in pairs); check out repair records; historical photos
of Duncan; a gamut of things, I'm sure.
The camera may have been repaired/repainted (perhaps multiple times).
Again, all of these things would be verifiable.
In terms of auction price, this camera looks like it has a lot going for it in terms of collectibility.
-Famous provenance
-Rarity inside of rarity
-Strong associations with various collectible markets (Picasso, Vietnam, Photography History, Photojournalism, Leica)--i.e.
crossover appeal
So, yea, the price is outrageous, but I can rationalize it.
...Another thought--
maybe Duncan just kept his cameras nice?
Is that so hard to believe? This would also make the camera more attractive to buyers. Duncan kept his gear nice, and now his stuff still looks good and works. I'll buy that.
I mean, not all photojournalists are Dennis Hopper,
Apocalypse Now, insane.
