M4-2 Curiosity

[JNewell]

I've prowled around and Googled and thumbed through books...have not found an answer to the question when (date or serial no.) the M4-2 "lost" the components that resulted in the rangefinder patch being subject to flare. Does anyone know?

 

[xayraa33]

around late 1979 to early 1980, the lost condenser seems to parallel the intro of the red dot lens release with the matte finish bayonette lens mount on the camera body.

 

[ferider]

Seems difficult to nail down. Here is from

http://photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg?msg_id=00Av03

Andy Aitken, Jan 26, 2005; 04:50 p.m.
: : :
As said above, avoid the serial number starting in 14xxxxx (first batch of 2000). Later models (starting 15xxxxx) should be more reliable. Also the first few 15xxxxx batches are preferable as they still have the much discussed viewfinder condenser lens whose ommission in the later M4-2 runs through to early M7 & MP runs caused occassional rangefinder patch flare.

Roland.

 

[xayraa33]

I bought two brand new M4-2 bodies, one in late 1978 and an other in early 1980.
the one from 1980 has the red dot lens release and the rf patch flare and is very annoying to use.
the 1978 M4-2 is as nice to use as any M4.
both have been extremely reliable cameras.