Dim Viewfinder

[rover]

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.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

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.

 

[SolaresLarrave]

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? 😀 😎

 

[rover]

Thank you for today's reading material Francisco.

 

[Nikon Bob]

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.

 

[back alley]

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

 

[Nikon Bob]

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.

 

[back alley]

bummer

 

[Rich Silfver]

Have you tried the number one guy - DAG? 😉

www.dagcamera.com

 

[rover]

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.

 

[Nikon Bob]

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.