Leica LTM Grey IIIC with Red Curtains

[cassel]

What do we think about this one?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/EARLY-RARE-LEICA-IIIC-VERY-WORN-WORLD-WAR-II-BLACK-FUNCTIONAL-CAMERA/331481850489?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D29310%26meid%3D2e19218bee554eb8b2864b4696365679%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D4%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D111600436705&rt=nc

Seems like a late serial number to have red curtains...

 

[Erik van Straten]

I can't read the serial number.

The grey finish seems to be authentic, but the covering is not original.

Erik.

 

[cassel]

In the description they claim the number is 388019- If you use the zooming feature on the right photo that looks possible- but it is hard to read. The covering with the "Made in Germany" embossing is odd.

 

[Erik van Straten]

I think it is far too pricey, given the fact that te vulcanite is not original. The grey vulcanite is one of the attractive aspects of the grey IIIc.

Erik.

 

[sevo]

Given the duplicate embossing and cut across the middle, that back seems to have been patched with vulcanite bits from two cameras. And the front seems to be crudely re-covered in faux leather. Too expensive for a very ratty camera with dead lens, and too ratty to be fake, too.

 

[Rob-F]

Seems way overpriced. It is in the IIIcK serial number range (as given by Leica Tom), and so it may even have the full-race ball bearings. But I can't see a "K" mark on the top plate, nor on the curtain. I suppose if it had the "K"mark, it might be more tempting. Or, if it were being offered at a much lower price, that might make it more tempting. I would hold out for one in much better condition, and a much lower price as well.

 

[AZPhotog]

You are best to PASS on this in light of the price versus all the issues. WAY overpriced for what it is.

 

[cassel]

Definitely not in my price range! But I was interested in your opinions about the camera--- it has lived a tough life and has undergone some changes over the years.

 

[Mr_Flibble]

I'm pretty sure they ran out of red curtain material by early 1942 and they were still using Chrome finishing by that time.

 

[Erik van Straten]

I'm pretty sure they ran out of red curtain material by early 1942 and they were still using Chrome finishing by that time.

Yes, that's right, they started with the grey finishing at 387501. The grey "K" starts at 388925. I've never seen a "K" stamped on a red curtain.

Erik.

 

[Mr_Flibble]

That said, the deterioration on the curtains makes them look genuine