"IMHO, a Nikon rangefinder is a Nikon rangefinder. They were designed a a specific way for a purpose. They are the jewels of Nikon heritage. There are so many other rangefinders out there that can be altered or customized, like the ton of Leicas out there or the Bessa-whatevers, but Nikon rangefinders are few and precoius. Yes, they are great picture-takers (as someone might say that a 1969 Ferrari is a great car to get from point "A" to point "B"), but by altering these classics we are doing a disservice to future generations. I mean, why bother messing with a classic camera like a Nikon rangefinder when there are so many other less desireable cameras out there to modify?
Again, my humble opinion. I can't help it. I simply admire old Nikon rangefinders and respect the engineering that went into them. 🙂
It is like painting antique furniture. Why not just get new furniture that matches your color scheme? In the world of antiques and collectibles, original factory condition is always worth more than modified."
Snegron,
I believe the purpose they were designed for that you alluded to was to take photographs.
However, Nikon rangefinders are not perfect and in fact, historical quaintness aside, they suffer from any number of design faults.
Besides, for the most part, the really pristine examples are already in the hands of those individuals whose lofty motives are undoubtedly limited to nothing more than preserving them intact for future generations, by squirreling them away in bank vaults and display cabinets.
So, based on my needs, and the condition of my cameras I see nothing wrong with doing what I can to improve on the shortcomings in the way they were designed and manufactered, if it helps me to better use them for their intended purpose.
I'd give you a full accounting of the modifications I've made to my SLR's as well, but I fear that would immediately result in my home being surrounded by a SWAT team from the International Camera Police.