Jerevan
Recycled User
I gave in to temptation today and bought a Leica I with case. I am aware I am taking a big risk here, especially as I am not interested in a non-working camera on a shelf. From the serial I can see it is a 1930 Leica I, nothing special with it, in the 22xxx range. The good things are that all speeds are working, the glass is reasonably clear, vulcanite is complete. Nothing essential is missing.
The bad parts are that it has been badly repainted. The viewfinder is not attached to the camera anymore. (Was it riveted?) The helical has been lubricated and smells like an oil pit. The lens barrel is a slightly crunched like somebody took a plier to it. The same goes for the lens rim. The barrel seems a bit askew and loose. Not sure if this kills the deal.
Would be pointless to pursue a repair? I think the body is fine, but what of the lens? Could I try to find something of similar age and have it retrofitted?
Thanks for any input, I'd love to have it working again.
The bad parts are that it has been badly repainted. The viewfinder is not attached to the camera anymore. (Was it riveted?) The helical has been lubricated and smells like an oil pit. The lens barrel is a slightly crunched like somebody took a plier to it. The same goes for the lens rim. The barrel seems a bit askew and loose. Not sure if this kills the deal.
Would be pointless to pursue a repair? I think the body is fine, but what of the lens? Could I try to find something of similar age and have it retrofitted?
Thanks for any input, I'd love to have it working again.