Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/09/16
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]In the book, '300 Leica Copies', by Pont, Princelle, published by Fotosaga, 1990, there are 4 pages devoted to the Honor, along with it's stable mate, the Ichicon 35. There were 2 Honors made, the S1 (1956-59) which resembled a IIIf, and the SL (1959-60) which resembled an M (of sorts). The Mejiro Optical Works made the cameras from 1954 onwards, from 1957on, they were engraved 'Zuiho' instead of 'Honor Opt.' they had a high quality finish, and unlike the Leicas of the time had removable backs, I guess like Zorkis. The S1 had 2 PC outlets and came with either a Konishiroku Hexanon (50/1.9) or Hexar (50/3.5) lens, in 1958 these were superseded with the Zuiho Honor 50/2 lens the black frame was removed from the middle of the back and a white film reminder was added. In the same year they also introduced a 1/1000th sec top speed and a black finish 50/1.9 Honor lens, total prodn. less than 1000. The SL had a flattish top and lever wind, combined rangefinder and viewfinder window and was supplied with the Zuiho Honor 50/1.9 black lens, there was only the one varient and less than 300 were produced. So, the rarity would auger well for a high value, but much depends on condition, I saw a 60mm Macro Elmarit that was sold for 90 GBP recently, boy! Was it grotty! McKeowns guide (an old one from '96) suggests 8-1200 USD. Hope this helps, Jem - -----Original Message----- From: JZa1058168@aol.com [SMTP:JZa1058168@aol.com] Sent: 16 September 1999 12:45 To: leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us Subject: [Leica] Japanese "Honor" camera Can anyone tell me about the Leica copy "Honor" and its probable value (ballpark). I saw one in a camera shop during a recent trip. j zarick, cinn, ohio