What can I expect to pay for a used MP?

[Roma]

Hello friends,
Can you please let me know what I can expect to shell out for a used black MP in great shape? I see prices from $2000 to $3000.
I mean, I'm probably going to hell for even thinking of spending this much on a camera body, but want to buy THE ONE, the reliable for the long run.
I don't know, maybe the mid-life crisis is kicking in early, but it seems like the ultimate shooting machine, no?
I've been thinking of upgrading from the R3A to a ZI, but then I wonder if I'll always lust after an MP :bang: . I don't know about the reliability of the ZI and want to carry only 1 camera body with me everywhere. I know the ZI has that huge finder, but I bet it doesn't sound as sweet as the MP 😀
Thanks for your help!

 

[kbg32]

I paid 2k for mine and it was in brand new condition with papers, box, etc..

 

[Bill Blackwell]

"I see prices from $2000 to $3000" - There you have it.

But you might want to consider buying an M6 classic - virtually the same camera in a different configuration. Get it CLA'd and have the RF upgraded (about $200) and you'll be good to go as well (or better) as an MP - and you'll have cash left in your pocket (even based on the low-end MP price) to apply towards a lens.

 

[Bill Blackwell]

Get it CLA'd and have the RF upgraded (about $200) and you'll be good to go as well (or better) as an MP...

Just so I'm clear (and someone doesn't jump on me), the ~$200 was meant to mean for the M6 RF MP upgrade only. A CLA will cost you $200-300 depending on where you take it.

 

[abenner]

With patience, for an 0.72 black in excellent shape I'd expect about $2200 give or take.

I would second what some have said about an M6. Now, if you want my unsolicited opinion, consider an M3. It's the epitome of "THE ONE." At one time or another, I've owned an MP, M7, M6, and an M3. I get so much more pleasure out of shooting with the M3 than anything else, and nearly as many good prints. I now find that I really dislike seeing the battery cover on an M. You could always get a meter if you need one, but you'll do fine without if you stick with one film. And you'll save even more money. It likely wouldn't be black, of course...

 

[Roma]

Thanks for your replies guys. Looks like I'll have to sweet-talk my wife's great aunt into giving me one of her M2s or M3s. I just have a hard time asking for one of hers. I'm sure she still loves them.

 

[abenner]

Roma - If your wife's great aunt has several, offer to buy one. She ought to be thrilled you're interested and they'll stay in the family, sort of. What else is she going to do with them, if she's still got them at this point?

 

[Meleica]

My price guide has $ 2050 for excellent condition. I'd add $ 250-300 for a minty one ( most are ).

Dan

 

[Doug]

I've been thinking of upgrading from the R3A to a ZI, but then I wonder if I'll always lust after an MP :bang: .

Definitely a psychological issue, and a valid one, in my experience. It sounds like you need to do this, get to be comfortable and casual with the Leica (whatever particular model), and then get on with your photography.

I may be fortunate in having acquired the requisite Leica early (I was 26) and even this used one caused a budgetary strain. In retrospect I think it eased my mind, as I continued to use other cameras and realized the Leica was not necessarily the best choice for every situation. There's an element of "been there, done that" gotten out of the system, and I still have (and occasionally use) that M2. It's a great basis for other gear to live up to.

And it has the benefit of removing any blame on inferior equipment for inferior results; you KNOW your own improvement is the important factor. 😱

 

[wontonny]

Try and find a M6 Millenium that has the nice large shutter speed dial but the same look as the MP

 

[Roma]

Great point Doug

Great point Doug

I see what you're saying🙂. I'll probably end up with either one of the great aunt's old Leicas and a ZI or just an MP.
Then, we go into some glass add/upgrade and..............here we go again😀
My camera will want me to shoot available light only at f1.4 ya know.🙄

 

[BigSteveG]

Roma,
You can save 20% off of a new Leica body (MP or otherwise) by submitting a student application through your authorized Leica dealer. Just sign up for a community college course long enough to get an ID or class schedule. I actually took a photo class and that's how I scored my MP a la carte. It's far better than buying a used one because you can get exactly what you want in terms of finish, magnification or even body covering. Also, you get a full warranty with your purchase!!!

 

[Doug]

In re-reading my post, I might sound a little negative or dismissive of the Leica, and that was not my intent. My button-rewind M2 was about 10 years used when I got it, I've had it CLA'd a couple times, and it still works great. Further, it's a tactile, visual, and audible marvel of excellence that is enjoyable to use. And I don't feel defensive about having it or not having it. 😀

The lenses are a different matter I think, as this is really "where the rubber meets the road" so to speak. And we're so lucky now to have such great choices at different price-points, and with different "character." Makes choosing difficult.

Good luck!

 

[maddoc]

I payed ~2050 USD here in Japan for a silver MP like new (still 3 years of warranty, all paper, box etc.), the black ones are usually ~300 USD more expensive and rare. I also own a M6 and M3. The viewfinder of the MP is much better compared to the M6 and similar to the M3 (albeit the M3 finder is not that bright, maybe due to the age). The MP is expensive, very expensive and more than I need for sure but .... 🙄

 

[naos]

I would go ahead and get the MP. You'll always be lusting for one unitl you get it anyway.....For $3000 you could probably find one brand new. Think about it....You would be the first one to ever use it. You could pass it along to your kids.....: )

 

[Roma]

Damn you Steve with your student program 🙂 It looks like I could get a new 35 lux for about $2800 this way also.
Do you have any idea how I'm going to have to explain it to my wife? We haven't been married even a year.
I can't even imagine her thoughts on my upcoming "real" mid-life.

I appreciate this info, though.

Thank you guys for all of your thoughts and replies!!!

 

[abenner]

Roma - With patience, you'll find a 35 'lux here or at photo.net for about $2300 with perfect glass and a little wear on the barrel. I sold one about a month ago. The good thing about buying Leica used is that (you can ease your wife's fear with this) if you buy right and don't abuse your stuff, you can always resell it and get your money back. With regards to buying an MP, the question really becomes how much extra you feel like spending to get a warranty. Sometimes you'll find a seller here who's only a year into his warranty and will sell with the understanding that if you have problems, he'll get the warranty work done and get the camera back to you.

Bottom line is, I've had nothing but great experiences buying and selling used stuff here and at photo.net.

 

[35mmdelux]

I bought my MP for $1900 a few months ago and sent it to Leica USA to ck battery power loss, fortunately fully covered under warranty.

Get one, but know why. I wanted a BP camera primarily, brass top/btm, improved VF, and most of all its all metal moving parts. What I don't like are its old style smaller levers, film release lever, smaller VF toggle lever. The rewind knob is somewhat a hassel compared to the diagonal knob of the M6. That was the compromise I made.

Depending on your finances remember you could get two M6 cams for the price of one MP. good luck - P