Re: [Leica] Information about rangefinders

["A.H.SCHMIDT" <horst.schmidt@actek.com.au>]

Noel H. Charchuk wrote:

> Horst Schmidt wrote:
> but sell the 1G and by a 3F or M3. You should get more than enough for
> your 1G
> to by either of this models plus a good lens.
>
> Again, unless you are a collector, I can not see the the attraction of a
> 1G or
> even a 3 G .
> @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
> I have to agree that the Ig could be sold to finance the purchase of a
> IIIf for a much more usable camera. However I don't agree with the
> statement Horst goes on the  make.
>
> I own a 3G, but never use it. It is just a collectors item.
>
> @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@
> A IIIg is probably the prime example of Leica rangefinders, prior to the
> introduction of the M series. It is an excellent picture taking machine,
> and there are literally dozens of lenses available to fit it, all
> available for considerably less than their M cousins. To not use a LTM
> camera is sad, as they are capable of producing excellent images even
> today. They need to be excercised regularly to keep fit!!! I use a IId and
> IIIa on a very regular basis, and would continue to use them when I can
> afford the M I want to buy. In the meantime, I get to use the Leica
> system, at a total price for 2 bodies, 6 lenses, bellows, and numerous
> accessories, of somewhat less than a M6 body.
> Noel Charchuk
> Calgary

Noel,

I agree with you, that there is no reason why one should not use a screw mount
camera.

This is not what i meant, when I said, the 3G is mainly a collectors model.
The problem is the very high prices it fetches, compared to any other screw
mount camera, or for that matter a good M2 or M3.

If you want to by a 3G in good clean condition from a shop, you have to fork
out  roughly about 1700 Bucks. The moment you by it, then use it, and then put
a few marks and scratches on to it, the price drops significantly. Also more
often than not, when you by a 3G, It hasn't been used much by the previous
owner. It will need a shutter re - lubrication and this cost an extra $200 or
so.
I am not saying, if you own one, don't use it. What iI am saying is: If you
need to by a camera to use, then then a 3C, 3F or M2 or M3 would in my opinion
be a better by.
3G cameras are not plentiful in the shops, because the owners don't sell them
when they update. The few times you'll se one for sale, is because the owner
needed money.
Don't forget, even the M cameras are capable of using screw mount lenses with
the appropriate adapter.

I always carry a 3C  with a 50mm Summitar in the car. Just in case. However to
me , a screw mount Leica is only a one lens camera. I cant be bothered to
carry more screw lenses with me and then have the tedious task of trying to
find the screw tread when changing lenses. Since I use the M cameras with the
bayonet mount, I have been spoiled.
Long live the bayonet!!

This is what I believe. I may be wrong.

Regards,   Horst Schmidt