I think I made the wrong choice

[pachuco]

Hi All,

I think I screwed up the other day when I ordered a DS M3 from KEH. It is in BGN condition but it does have a "dim viewfinder" as per the sales rep I spoke to on the phone. At the time I did not know how troubling that can be. Does anyone have any experiance with an M3 from KEH with a "dim viewfinder"? I can always send it back once it gets here but man, it would be great if it is not that bad or I can fix it 🙁

 

[Pablito]

I had an M3 DS with dim viewfinder and it was impossible to focus in low light. One of the delights of Leica is the bright contrasty viewfinder. I'd recommend just sending it right back. You're lucky you bought from them and not eee-bay. The cost of postage is not a bad price to pay to learn a lesson. consider yourself lucky.

 

[thomasw_]

definitely don't waste money or time with a dim vf. i'd send it back to keh. then i'd ask them to email you when they have a m3 in bgn condition but with a good vf. that's what i did when i bought from them; they emailed me within two weeks of my request.

i recommend keh or popflash way, way over ebay.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

I've seen KEH's listings of M3 cameras. There are more (for a slightly larger amount) cameras with better viewfinders to buy. Send them the camera and ask for an exchange or refund, because the viewfinder problem is more complicated than you may think.

Now, about buying inexpensive, defective gear, I have a good story: my Elmarit 28mm had a slight case of separation in the rear element. In fact, some people (not here, but at P.net) suggested that I return it; I sent it to John Van Stelten, in CO. He repaired and shipped it back in 10 days because he wanted to go on vacations, otherwise it would have taken him about a month. I still paid less than if I had purchased the lens from any other dealer, like Adorama or even KEH.

Now, in your case, I'd send the camera back. The dealer from whom I bought my lens didn't have a flexible return policy (I think he has a restocking fee), but KEH does, so take advantage of it. Good luck! 🙂