Is it good idea to buy Leica IIf?

[M_alice]

Hello
At local shop I have noticed something looking like Black Dial Leica IIf (Nr. 799 871). Lens is elmar 50/2,8. Price, similar to new Olympus TG-4. Camera looks good and they say it's in good condition. I've never had any Leica, never used any Leica. Do you think, with this price it's a good deal? And good model to start "Leica adventure"?
M_alice

 

[Ko.Fe.]

Very good model to start. I used to have one. I think, black is for bw and if you turn it, it will be red for color.
Original Elmar 502.8 itself is around $300 these days. IIf is close to $200.
It all depends on condition of the lens and camera. I would not trust any shop. Take it if returns due to malfunctions are accepted.

 

[xayraa33]

Very good model to start. I used to have one. I think, black is for bw and if you turn it, it will be red for color.
Original Elmar 502.8 itself is around $300 these days. IIf is close to $200.
It all depends on condition of the lens and camera. I would not trust any shop. Take it if returns due to malfunctions are accepted.

Black Dial versus Red Dial are two different types of the If IIf IIIf models, the red dial being the later and the dial has to do with flash sync and the shutter speeds and shutter construction are slightly different, ( the fast speeds are sequenced a bit different on the slower fast speeds) the shutter curtain running time was upped to 1/50 sec on the RD versus 1/30 on the BD for better non ghosting flash sync and a wider shutter gap at 1/1000 of a sec for more consistent top speed.

 

[mpaniagua]

Got one on my camera bag right now, great camera, but like Ko. Fe. said, buy it only if the offer a return option. Had one that had all kind of problem (slipping film advace, light leaks, etc.).

Regards.

Marcelo

 

[ray*j*gun]

Barnacks are great cameras!! I have 4 myself from a IIIa to a IIIfRDST however if it has been serviced, then you should factor that in. These cameras are too old to just ignore maintenance. Same with the lens. Some folks will say just use it and see but by doing that any issues with gummed up lube and brittle curtains will only get worse.

 

[Roger Hicks]

A LOT better buy than a TG-4!

Cheers,

R.