Leica M “CLA” service

[twvancamp]

After saving for quite a while, I've been on the watch for my first Leica. One possibility I'm considering is buying a full on beater and factoring in the repair cost.

With this in mind, I'm wondering what could make a film Leica "beyond repair"? Or can they always be brought back to life and it's just a matter of cost?

Thought I'd throw this here rather than start a new thread. Appreciate any thoughts!

 

[trianbampol]

After saving for quite a while, I've been on the watch for my first Leica. One possibility I'm considering is buying a full on beater and factoring in the repair cost.

With this in mind, I'm wondering what could make a film Leica "beyond repair"? Or can they always be brought back to life and it's just a matter of cost?

Thought I'd throw this here rather than start a new thread. Appreciate any thoughts!

I'd recommend to find a camera in the best condition possible for a reasonable price. You always have to factor in the cost of a CLA, but try to avoid putting your tech in a position where they would have to fully restore a beater.

 

[rulnacco]

I've not used them for Leica, but Kiwi Camera Service in Orlando just did a Hasselblad service for me, and it seems to have gone quite well. They assure me they service Leicas as well.

Very friendly people and they have a high reputation around here. They did tell me when I picked up my Blad last week that they were about six months on repairs, but that perversely the virus shutdown had freed them up to catch up on things a bit. They charged me $240 to replace the main spring in my 500CM body and service it in general, which included a $40 discount (they'd originally quoted me $280) because they'd had my camera for quite a while.

They're on Facebook, and you can also find them here: https://kiwicameraservice.com.

 

[David Hughes]

After saving for quite a while, I've been on the watch for my first Leica. One possibility I'm considering is buying a full on beater and factoring in the repair cost.

With this in mind, I'm wondering what could make a film Leica "beyond repair"? Or can they always be brought back to life and it's just a matter of cost?

Thought I'd throw this here rather than start a new thread. Appreciate any thoughts!

Hmmm, I'd suggest buying the best looking one from a dealer as looks can't be repaired and good looks suggest it hasn't been dropped or knocked. Dealers usually give a guarantee and honour them. I've had to return one or two Leicas so far but that's over a few decades.


In fairness to the dealers; the acid test is film and that takes time and money.



Regards, David

 

[Huss]

After saving for quite a while, I've been on the watch for my first Leica. One possibility I'm considering is buying a full on beater and factoring in the repair cost.

With this in mind, I'm wondering what could make a film Leica "beyond repair"? Or can they always be brought back to life and it's just a matter of cost?

Thought I'd throw this here rather than start a new thread. Appreciate any thoughts!

You may be surprised to find the price difference between a beater and a nice one can be only $100... treat yourself. Even if it means waiting another month or so.

 

[twvancamp]

You may be surprised to find the price difference between a beater and a nice one can be only $100... treat yourself. Even if it means waiting another month or so.

Appreciate this Huss (and from David and Brian above) and suppose you are right. Even a few hundred dollars to avoid the time/risk/trouble would be well worth it over the long run. The search continues!

 

[Beemermark]

Youxin does excellent work, has a quick turnaround, and the price is reasonable. Don Goldberg also does excellent work, costs a bit more, and takes longer. I have used both and have been more than satisfied with their work. No experience with Sherry.

I have an M4 working in all respects but I was/am thinking of getting it serviced before DAG decides to retire. DAG quoted me $185 for a CLA and in the neighborhood of $500 for an overhaul. He stated given the age of the M4 it would probably need the overhaul (even though working).


I mention this because there is a big difference between a "CLA" and returning the camera to factory specifications so it will last another 50 years. DAG was factory trained and has the specialized tooling to do this work.

 

[Livesteamer]

I have found that buying a basket case and restoring it is expensive. Old cameras and old cars are like the stock market; Buy Quality and hang onto it. Just my opinion. Joe

 

[Graybeard]

I've dealt with all/each of the technicians which you mention and, in the past, have been pleased with the work of each.

More recently, I have not been pleased by my communication with Sherry. When I asked why I had not heard from her regarding a Leicaflex Standard which I had sent for a CLA, I received a rude reply which stated, more or less, that I could just wait.

I don't think I'll send work to her in the future.