Interesting situation

V

v_roma

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I came a cross a couple in my area who are trying to sell a complete Minolta CLE system (camera, three lenses, flash, cases, etc) as a favor to a relative. The problem is that the camera has a pretty visible crack on one of the top corners (I think near the viewfinder but it's hard to tell from the picture) and they do not really know whether or not the camera is in good working condition.

They are trying to put a value on the system. I suggested that they may want to have the camera professionally checked out / CLA'd so that they can confidently say that the crack is only a cosmetic issue and that the camera is otherwise fine. A few questions:

1) Do you think repair / CLA is worth it or should they just sell the camera as is?
2) Should they sell the camera, lenses, etc. as a system or split them up? I think if the camera was in good condition, selling as a system would probably make sense. As it is now, I'm wondering if they would do better selling the lenses separately.
3) Other thoughts welcome :)

Thanks
 
Well, they need to test the camera first, take it to a technician and then decide whether to sell it as a system or break it up. That's what I'd suggest. If the crack does not affect the film chamber, it'll put a dent on the price anyway.

Now, the lenses (if they're in good shape) may be more "profitable" than the camera body. Since this is a Minolta CLE they're likely to be the 28, 40 and 90mm lenses.

Tell them to check the 28mm lens for white spots.
 
Thanks for the suggestions so far. The lenses are indeed the Minolta M-Rokkor 28mm, 40mm, and 90mm.

Would the white spots on the 28mm be visible to the naked eye and be on front, back, or both?

Also, any recommendations for a CLE repair person (greater Detroit area would be ideal but I've never heard of anyone)?

Thanks again
 
Bump :) Just making sure this reaches a wider audience. Any tips on where to send a CLE for repair/CLA?

I did some more research and DAG Camera used to come up as an option a couple of years ago. Does anyone know if this is still the case today?

Thanks again
 
I just dropped mine off at Panorama in NYC recently. They accept shipments from around the world, apparently, and they work on rare or hard to repair old cameras. They do work on the camera and regularly service cameras for big electronics stores based here in NYC.
 
I bought this set, the crack doesn't seem to be an issue and the set works like a champ. So nice I have parted with my M6 and 35mm ASPH and not looking back. Love the whole set!!
 
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