Leica IIIf - request for advice

[cviviani]

Dear all,


I just spotted in a shop a Leica IIIf (605xxx) w 50/3.5 and original purse in seemingly good condition. However, not being an expert in these cameras, I would ask your kind advice on how to understand if the camera is in good order or not. I only tried to focus using the rangefinder and it seems to work ok. Not very very bright but fine. The shutter makes a nice and firm sound. What else should I look at? I understand for example that the Elmarit could have some fogging problems, but I honestly wouldn't know how to detect them.


Oh, and by the way, the price would be €520 all included.


Any advice would be highly appreciated.
thanks


Carlo

 

[je2a3]

Hi Carlo,

Did you remove the lens and cycle through all speeds from B, 1s, 1/2s----> 1/1000? You should see the shutter progressively getting faster in action. The "B" setting should show snappy action on both curtains.

A bright flashlight (LED type) would aid in assessing the condition of the lens.

All these tips require a bit of experience though.

I'm not abreast with current pricing, got my ca. 1950 IIIf over ten years ago. Really nice camera, you'll enjoy it!

Good luck!

 

[payasam]

I'd recommend that you get the shop to agree to take back the camera, for a full refund, if a test roll shows any problems. I'll be glad to suggest things you might do when exposing the test roll. I am uthappam AT gmail.com.

The lens would be an Elmar, by the way.

 

[john neal]

Carlo,

Priced a little on the high side, I think - IIIf combos are not that rare.

For that money I would expect the body and lens to have had a recent CLA and want at least 6 months warranty. Obviously, a lot depends on condition, but I would have thought you could find one similar on ebay for <400 euro. OK you would probably have to pay for a CLA, but that shouldn't push you over that shop price.

As the saying goes - "caveat emptor". You could always try haggling on the price........

 

[Beemermark]

I'd recommend that if your not an expert in old Leicas you buy one from a reputable Leica dealer. Tamarkin in the US an example. You should buy from a dealer who has knowledge of Leica LTM cameras and can answer any questions as to condition. He should also be willing to give a guarantee.