M2

[flip]

And to carry that analogy further: not using a camera because it is too pristine and wear marks would decrease its value, is like not having relations with a girl(/boy) friend because it would make her less desirable to her next boyfriend.

Thanks for sparing me from saying it.

 

[eia41]

Flip and Frank S have made some very nice, tender and loving comments. My goodness, how I do love the emotional way we feel about our mechanical "babies"!!

 

[FrankS]

It's an analogy, not the same thing.

 

[hendriphile]

+1. If you put it in a leather half-case, it will be protected well enough against most bumps and dents. Just avoid using a Leica-Meter in the shoe. They tend to scratch the top plate.

And another +1 as regards the half case. Your M2 will still be pristine-looking when film becomes no longer available.

I designed my cars to be driven, not to be polished - - Dr. Ferry Porsche

 

[BMacW]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I'm usually a huge proponent of : things are meant to be used not pampered.

It's just this M2 is almost given to me for next to nothing. And I usually use my gear until they are beat up. So I figured, I will let this gem live on, and get something more practical (already worn out cosmetically)

I will keep the camera for now and think a bit harder.

 

[FrankS]

Another analogy:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!”
-Hunter S. Thompson, "Gonzo"

 

[BMacW]

Here is a scan of the original purchase documents, just something interesting to look at.

https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B-xr0yOsiO8qTmRrQVM5aWVCLVE

 

[iuseruby]

where is the photo with untouched L seal?
+1 for don't sell

 

[Sparrow]

Another analogy:

“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming "Wow! What a Ride!”
-Hunter S. Thompson, "Gonzo"

... or;

" ... a prince who, when required, cannot discard a treasure does not own it, but is enslaved to it"

Niccolo Machiavelli









PS not really I just made it up

 

[Sparrow]

where is the photo with untouched L seal?
+1 for don't sell

Easy to fake ... here's one I did earlier

 

[unixrevolution]

I have a similar situation with a wartime Walther P38. It's in pristine shape, never fired, and shooting it would only serve to take away what makes it special.

I would actually sell and "Downgrade" to a user M2, but one with a fresh CLA. Not because it's financially advisable, but because I'd drive myself crazy keeping the pristine m2 from ever getting a mark on it.

OTOH, using it is a great idea too, if you want to use a practically virgin M2. I just know myself too well.