Grandfather's M3 now mine - advice?

[historicist]

There's nothing wrong with selling things you have no interest in yourself, but I agree, this is not the best way to sell them.

This is a really high price for some items in average condition, none of which are especially rare, unusual or valuable, and sold by someone who does not know much about them. From the buyers point of view, there is a lot of uncertainty about them - it is not possible to see the items in detail, and there is a fair risk that they may have some defects that the seller - with the best will in the world - is not aware of because he doesn't know too much about this kind of thing. Plus the price being asked would be high even if they were from a reputable dealer and in top condition.

I can't see this selling unless you get super lucky with an idiot buyer.

Can you sell on consignment with a dealer? Might be worth considering if you don't know how to price or describe the items in the best way possible.

 

[josh b]

A friend of mine recommended I send the camera to a company called Tamarkin in CT. Has anyone had any business dealings with them? I searched on the forum and it looks like they are well recommended.

 

[rover]

Stan Tamarkin is a highly reputable dealer. That said, he specialize in equipment which is in very good condition or rare. Objectively, it looks like your grandfather put his equipment to good use. I would say it can't hurt to send the photographs you have to him and ask if he have any interest. You may ask and Stan may offer an appraisal if that is all you are looking for.

I suspect though that any dealer will only offer you 50-60% of what they believe they can sell an item for. They need to make their margin.

If I were you I would do some research, which you have started here, regarding the value of the items you have, which some opinions are expressed here, and then list them in a targeted marketplace, like we have here. There are other photo and Leica forums and markets too, RFF is just one.

My opinion, $2,500 is too much for your kit. I think a more reasonable price is around $1,500 for the kit, but that is a big nut in this economy. For that reason alone you I think you will have an easier time selling the items individually.

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

I only have my grandfather's clock.....but it stopped short - never to go again - when the old man died! 🙁
Dave.

 

[robin a]

Damn,I hope my grand kids think more of me.

Gee,expressing one's thoughts got this much ire..........WONDERFUL !!!