M7, I'm in the market. What's best, what to avoid?

[RichardB]

I want an M7. Are there some serial number batches to avoid, or prefer. What about the upgrades? Which ones are worth it? Price? About $2,000 for mint- or ?

I would concern myself more with the condition of the M7 for sale than whether it has any upgrades. Usually an M7 with all the paper work and boxes that appears lightly used is a much better purchase than one that had user marks and comes with no paperwork or boxes.
The lack of the upgrade finder is not an issue, I had my two M7's upgraded and frankly can't tell the difference. The mechanical ASA reader is another matter and should be upgraded but that is not a deal breaker because Leica still does that for no charge.
So find the best condition M7 and if not upgraded send it off to Solms.-Dick

 

[nksyoon]

If this particular M7 needs the MP finder, optical DX, and a CLA for good measure, is there any difference in time or costs or quality between DAG and Leica service?

Not sure if DAG does DX readers, but if he does I don't think it will be free. Leica does it for free.

MP finder and CLA will cost less from DAG compared to Leica. I was quoted abt $250 by DAG for an MP finder upgrade - might be cheaper if combined with a CLA. I read on RFF abt someone who had Leica upgrade their finder and it cost >$500, but it included some elements of a CLA.