There are some things that you should check once you get your hands on it.
I have one which I got in somewhat beat up state. There were various things wrong with it, most of which were not obvious at first. I have managed to fix most, but it was not always easy.
Some things to look for:
- Rangefinder cam - check that they match the lens serial numbers, that proves these lenses should focus accurately.
- Rangefinder - Compare the ground glass and rangefinder for each lens (rotate the cam). First verify that the infinity stops are in the correct position, then the close focus range.
(I recently returned a mint V 6x9 to B+H, over a rangefinder that was off)
- Check all the movements, and knobs on the front standard. Mine has a bent knob for releasing the lens tilt. Mine also has chip off the profile that grips the focus rail which it doesn't hold as tightly with wide angle lenses. Check that rise is smooth.
- Slide out the focus rail, and feel the smoothness of the focus wheel. Mine had a faulty focus lock, caused by a cracked plastic part. I manages to disassemble it and glue it with plastic weld, but it was a pain to get at.
- The rear standard, with the sliding rods. Some have plastic parts at the connection to the rear standard which had cracked. There is also the locking mechanism for releasing the back which on mine is broken, but it works fine without it.
- The ground glass, and the springs holding it down. They may be weak.
- The grip. Mine I assume does not match my set, as it does not fully engage into the sliding mechanism. I thought they were all identical, but they are not.
- The latch for opening the body from folded position. Mine was broken, but fixable.
Most of my problems were related to the plastic parts which seem somewhat brittle compared to more modern plastics. Plastic weld or superglue can fix them if all parts are present.
It is hugely satisfying when everything works on these cameras. Good luck!
