M6 Open/Close Mechanism Problem

[claylerner]

Hi, I just bought a m6 classic off of ebay and I noticed that the open/close mechanism on the base plate is broken, so that although you can still lock the camera, you can turn the mechanism too far. Therefore now when it is locked and attached, it doesn’t quite lock as far as it should on that side although this is barely noticeable (maybe it hangs down 0.5mm at most. Its not like it fogs the film or anything. My repairman said its only a simple job to tighten this mechanism. But I noticed that the inside of the bottom of the camera is very slightly worn down where the mechanism would latch on. Maybe this happens on every camera or maybe this is because of the faulty mechanism. It wont be a problem to return the camera to seller, who offers an inspection period, but considering that the camera is perfect in all other regards, I thought id ask you guys if maybe its not a bad idea to just repair the base plate and have the seller reimburse me. I know my description probably isn’t very lucid, but I’d appreciate any advice I can get. Thanks.

 

[FrankS]

My repairman said its only a simple job to tighten this mechanism.
the camera is perfect in all other regards
maybe its not a bad idea to just repair the base plate and have the seller reimburse me.

Sounds like a good idea. Is this your first Leica? Do you like it? (Love mine!)

 

[MCTuomey]

I'd get it fixed. Otherwise sounds like this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship ...

 

[claylerner]

Yes, it is my first, and despite the flaw its an amazing camera. I just wasnt sure if this was a highly unusual problem, I guess im being paranoid. thanks, clay.

 

[teemu.laine]

If your bottom plate is a bit loose the problem might be in the "loop" end of your plate. If you remove your plate with too much force you can bend the loop end accidentally and that causes bottom plate loosines. You can fix this problem by tapping your bottom plate gently againt some hard surface.

 

[claylerner]

Hi, I compared the base plate on my camera to the one on a friends M6. I noticed my friends had a much larger mechanism that sort of sticks up into the compartment that holds the film canister (probably to keep it in place.) The one on mine is just a flat wheel that doesnt rise above the inner rim of the plate (if that makes sense, sorry i dont have pictures). Is my plate missing a part or did lecia change the design of the base-plate at some point?