How do I go about buying an MP?

Thank you for all the great advice everyone! I just wanted to give a quick update as I have decided to go with a Leica M2 for the fact that I've never handled a Leica before so made sense that some of you were suggesting I try an older, classic M first. I just received my M2 in the mail today and it just feels sooooo great in the hands! WOW feels like I'm holding a piece of history (considering it also came with the original tag and instruction manuals!).

Now I'm just debating whether it needs a CLA or not. This M2 looks almost mint and the shutter speeds sound accurate to the ear, even down to one second. But the advance does feel a little tight, yet still slightly smooth with no hesitation... I just have no idea what it should feel like considering I've never advanced a new one before, and the camera did collect some dirty gunk in the corners, but nothing where it seems like a Q-tip can't solve.. It has it's original 'L' seal by the way.
 
Congratulations... you have done a right thing.. (Otherwise I would be calling you Champagne Charlie..)

Anyway, your M2 is worth $100 more now.. and do not have it CLA at least until you notice something wrong with the lower speeds...

Bob
 
It is worthwhile to buy a new camera - MP.
It appears that the black paint is more popular. I have a silver one, shame to me. 🙂
 
Okay I guess I spoke too soon.. When I actually opened up the back hinge door and looked at the shutter plane from both ends, it seems as though on the slower speeds it doesn't open up completely; I would say about 1/10 of the way so it was hard to notice. Probably would have had a a dark area along the edge of the frame if I were to have exposed any film.. darn...

But nothing too sad about, I already expected a good CLA. 🙂
 
ZdenekP said:
With Leica M you almost need not a manual, except for film loading. BTW, the manuals were downloadable from net.
Click to expand...

Oh yeah I know.. but just really cool to read and hang on to. 😀


ZdenekP said:
It is worthwhile to buy a new camera - MP.
It appears that the black paint is more popular. I have a silver one, shame to me. 🙂
Click to expand...

Yeah seriously.. what were you thinking? 😛
And the MP is still on my list buddy! But couldn't pass up on trying an M2!
 
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Give it some exercise. It sounds like a CLA may be in order, and of course can't hurt a 50 yo machine. But if it loosens up a little, perhaps you will be able to get a few rolls through it to see how you like the experience.

Congrats, enjoy.
 
You can get an M3 or 2 of them. I have 4 M3's. That way I can rotate them for repairs if necessary. Always good to have a back-up, esp. when traveling. I had DAG replace the view finder in one of them with a MP finder. Also, that way you can carry two with different lenses.
Also, it is always better to put the money in the glass, not the box.
 
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