Fingers crossed...and advice needed

[nottageek]

I dropped off a couple of films today and wandered into an old camera store nearby. I spotted a nice looking chrome M3 and got chatting to the store owner.

The M3 looked great, sounded perfect, great finder, but I only handled it for a few minutes. At the very least, I'd say it was in very good user condition.

Turns out, he'd sell as a "package" the following:
SS M3 (think the serial # is over 1,###,### but can't guarantee that) , LTM Summarit 50mm f1.5 (with M adapter), LTM 135mm Hektor f4.5 and a Leica universal finder...all for $1000 and he'll probably knock something off that. The lenses are in great shape, especially the Summarit. The universal finder looks like a ray gun, but was very effective, I can see the attraction of one of these.

I was in a hurry and told him I'd pop back tomorrow. Now, thinking about it more, allowing for the other items, I figure I've passed on getting the M3 for well under $500 from a dealer!

I plan to be back tomorrow, armed with Mr Gandy's checklist to check it out. In the meantime, I'm dreading to find that it's gone and I may end up kicking myself.

Am I way off in my calculations? Advice on what to look for if it's still there?

All feedback/advice gratefully received. If it comes off, I'll post some pics.

 

[Todd.Hanz]

Ask when the last time it was CLA'd or least ask if it can be returned if theres any problem with it. Bring a brite light to shine through the lenses to lookk for scratches, cloudiness or fungus. If it's in good shape the price may be right but it doesn't hurt to ask. Good Luck!

Todd

 

[zpuskas]

If it's all in good shape---glass clean and clear--I'd say $900 might be a better price.

 

[Avotius]

hm...seems a little much for me, if its all in really really great condition, no fungus and no holes in the shutter, it might be ok but still seems like he has a comfortable profit margin in there.

 

[nottageek]

Done, for $900!

Lenses in great shape, camera is looking great. I'm delighted.

Thanks for the feedback, bit I'm a bit surprised at the price feedback here. I haven't seen a decent M3 under 700-800 for ages. Given shop markups, I figure I'm getting the lenses and finder almost free.

 

[jaapv]

Done, for $900!

Lenses in great shape, camera is looking great. I'm delighted.

Thanks for the feedback, bit I'm a bit surprised at the price feedback here. I haven't seen a decent M3 under 700-800 for ages. Given shop markups, I figure I'm getting the lenses and finder almost free.

Congratulations on your new baby, You're sure to enjoy it. Re prices, don't be surprised, used Leica prices in the USA are rather high compared to the rest of the world.