Dim Viewfinder

rover

rover

Moderator
Staff member
Local time
7:27 AM
Joined
Jul 30, 2003
Messages
13,897
I have come across a well used, but not abused M2, which has had a recent CLA, but it still has a dim viewfinder. I am tempted, but I kind of stess about little things like this. My first thought is regarding the decementing mirrors in these finders. At least I have read about them in the M3s. Is a dimming finder a symptom of this problem?

I don't know, perhaps it is simply the fact of a dim Leica viewfinder that is not computing with me.
 
From the little I've read, the decementing of the mirror inside causes trouble with the rangefinder when it comes to focusing. I guess that, at the same time, it may dim the viewfinder as well... although I can't recall any kind of mirror in the window in front of the rangefinder that's used to lit the whole mechanism.

Now... a CLA for the M2 may run into the $300s. If someone like Helen comes to the rescue about this and tells us that the dim viewfinder has nothing to do with decementing, I'd say go snatch it for less than $600. That way you compensate for the amount you'll have to shell out to get the body up to snuff.
 
Wait a second. I just re-read your post and it says the M2 had a recent CLA. Well... ask who did it and if they have the receipt. It's common practice as the technician will guarantee the repair.

Now, regarding decementing, I found THIS THREAD in Photo.net. However, don't click on it yet, here is ANOTHER THREAD about decementing and its signs.

And, of course, a nice THREAD HERE about how to examine a used M2. Ain't that grand? :D :cool:
 
Hi Rover

You may find this site of interest http://www.angelfire.com/biz/Leica/ . I have a IIIf that the focussing spot is nolonger visible in and was considering having it redone. I have never sent anything there for repair so I cannot say anything about the work they do. Looks interesting though. Wish there was someone on this side the pond that did similar work but I can't seem to dig anyone up.
 
bob,

what about kinderman canada. they do work on leicas and have a pretty good reputation. in fact i've been told they sometimes also work on old rf cameras from canon and elsewhere.

joe
 
Hi Joe

Checked with them already , but no go on the rangefinder part. Any other type of work on LTMs I think is possible there.
 
Thanks Bob for the site. I did quite a bit of reading and decided not to get this camera in the end. I also passed on a very early DS M3. Both cameras were very capable ugly users, but with the purchase price and need for an immediate CLA I thought it would be best to say no. When my time comes I think that I will be able to do better with a little dedicated shopping.
 
Thanks fellas for the Essex Camera and DAG suggestions. I have emailed them for estimates. Rover, I know how hard it is to decide to make that purchase but you have to consider all the things like you have done. That does not make it any easier.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom