M2 versions

[Joshua_G]

you might want to enquire about this M2! this sounds like a good deal....no connection with the seller, etc..

http://www.photo.net/gc/view-one?classified_ad_id=685564

Thank you. I just bought it.​

 

[Joshua_G]

The M3 finder has several fancy prisms, including one that is a"laminated" large block that contains the permanent 50mm lines. Most of the problems you encounter with the M3 is cracked and fading lines in this prism and delaminating of the prisms, or "fungus' - which can look like a tropical growth! Most of the parts in the M3 finder are unique to this finder and as they are old now, parts are getting difficult to get, if at all possible. It is also a very costly finder to replace, around $700.

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There is an M3 for sale, for a very reasonable price. The seller, who sounds very reliable, says there is an "edge separation" in the finder. He say: "Edge separation is a common issue with M3 cameras. Leica uses Canada Balsam to knit the two prisms in the rangefinder. Over time, the balsam oxidises and in this case - the edges show signs of this resin oxidation - hence a slight golden hue on many of rangefinders. It doesn't affect the operation of the prism and the finder is still clear"​

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Is that a sign for a finder that will need repair fairly soon?​

 

[Tom A]

i have never worried to much about the edge separation. You do run a slight risk of having it de-laminate sometime in the future, but the progression is slow, unless there is a heavy impact on the top or edge of the camera. What is critical is the contrast of the actual rangefinder patch. If this is weak or even worse. blacked out you are looking at a hefty repair bill. When you are buying a M3 adjsut the price accordingly. If the rangefinder patch is gone - calculate with at least another $4-500 for fixing. If the finder is blacked out across the the whole viewfinder - the camera is a parts project, unless it is absolutely mint or original black paint and it would be worth it to have it restored ($7-800 to start with).
Always, when you are buying a M camera, particularly M2/M3/M4 add at least $150 to 175 to the price for a CLA. If the buyer claims that it has been done - ask for documentation! Once you have had it CLA'd it should be good for at least 5-10 years, depending on how much you shoot. This does not mean that less is better - mechanical devices do not fare well being stored away. If you are not using the camera daily, make a habit of clicking through all the speeds every month. This will keep lubrication on vital parts and ensure that it doesn't gum up. Best way of keeping it smooth and working is actually to shoot with it daily. that was why you bought it anyway - I hope!

 

[Joshua_G]

i have never worried to much about the edge separation. You do run a slight risk of having it de-laminate sometime in the future, but the progression is slow,

Thank you very much for your detailed and elaborated reply.

I wonder who will de-laminate first, me, or the camera's finder ..,.​

Best way of keeping it smooth and working is actually to shoot with it daily. that was why you bought it anyway - I hope!

First, I was only considering buying. Your reply helped me decide to actually buy it.​

Second, I'm going to buy it (or another copy) in order to shoot with it, though not daily, not before I will retire from work, which will probably happen few years from now.​

 

[Tom A]

Just get used to carrying every day. You live in a country that has some of best sights for pictures as well as a gorgeous late afternoon and evening light. The sand stone used in buildings give the impression of absorbing light during the day and then releasing it in the early evening,