Is this claim about the M6 made by an eBay seller true?

[Topdog1]

Here is the quote from a current auction of an early M6 on eBay:

"These first generation Wetzlar M6's were actually M4-P's with a meter added. Because of this, these Leicas had steel and brass gears where later models used plastic. They were built from parts originating in the Midland, Ontario,factory, and sent to the German site, I have read, which explains their superior durability. Serial #1681xxx makes this a 1985 model. Right side rear leather covering is embossed,"MADE IN GERMANY" ."

Do late model M6s actually have plastic gears? How about the M7? Seems hard to believe.

Regards,
Topdog1

 

[dadsm3]

I've seen that before.....sound like a re-list so make doubly sure it's legit.
I have an early version so I hope it's true that mine's better than everyone elses!😉

 

[Gabriel M.A.]

I heard some of them come with dork bars, too. You never know. Better check at the Leica Users Group...

 

[plummerl]

According to Steve Gandy (cameraquest), this is true:
http://www.cameraquest.com/mguide.htm#M6
The change occurred in 96/97.

 

[Gabriel M.A.]

Ah, it says:

About 1996/97 plastic parts replaced metal parts in the frame counter, resulting in increased breakdowns. Unfortunately, Leica has not revealed the exact point of these changes. Apparently the problem has since been corrected.

So, it's not since then, only happened then.

 

[Kim Coxon]

Sounds like a case of "A little knowledge is a dangerous thing"

Kim

 

[Todd.Hanz]

plastic gears on the frame counter only, not to worry much, I always shoot until the film won't advance anymore and that usually means I'm at the end of the roll 🙂, these things are for leicabaters to worry about, buy it if it's a good deal.

Todd

 

[dadsm3]

Nope, mine's better.....

 

[Duke El]

I read through this thread and I do not see where the eBay seller has said anything untrue.

Based on the collective knowledge one reads in the in this thread - it seems it is true that there was a switch to plastic gears at some point during the production run such that an earlier production model would have metal gears whist a later one may not.

I don't own one of the cameras so cannot say so from personal experience - just reading through what others here have written.