oscroft
Veteran
Back to the original question - when I was looking for a Z3/3M some time ago I did some research (sorry I didn't keep the links), and there do seem to be a lot of claims that the slow speed mechanism was really quite nasty and broke easily. Sure, you'll get reports from people whose Z3 slow speed mechanism is working perfectly - but I could also show you examples of heavy smokers who have lived into their eighties. Statistically, from what I read it did seem to me as if the Z3 had an inferior mechanism. (I ended up getting a very good 3M from eBay and it really is very nice indeed)
wolves3012
Veteran
The linkage in the Zorki 3 has make it more complex. IF they designed it properly that shouldn't be an issue; more parts don't mean less reliability automatically. The slow-speeds of Leicas are noted as being less reliable too, however, so maybe the linkage does cause a problem. My choice would still be a Zorki 3M though, of the two, for a "user".oscroft said:
Marc-A.
I Shoot Film
oscroft said:
Oscroft's right. The slow speed mecanism is knows for being easily broken.
If I had to buy a Z3* again, I would buy a Z3M without hesitation.
A bit peremptory, imhoTVphotog said:
As for me, I prefer the Z3 without the front dial.
rxmd
May contain traces of nut
I would prefer the 3M for the shape of the "M" alone, the same as in the Soviet metro logos and simply a great design element.
zhang xk
Well-known
Marc-A. said:For once I'm lucky, I've got one Zorki4K with the engraved speed dial. In fact, I sold my other Z4K and kept this one
Those engraved Zorki 4K are rare, perhaps less common than t Zorki 3 or 3M. Maybe less tan 10% Zorki 4Ks has engraved numbers. I have seen only 5 of these, and bought 4.
zhang xk
Well-known
rxmd said:
I have both 3 and 3M. My 3M winds very smoothly. I can wind it with one finger. I also find some Russian engraved logos very attractive.