[Leica] Expensive 35mm Summicron, a sad tale

[john <bosjohn@mediaone.net>]

I just purchased, so to speak, a very expensive 35mm Summicron, not the Asph. 
I had inherited my father's Leica collection, which included a new unused M4-P
70th year commerative, with three lenses.  The camera is still sealed in a
plastic bag. I took out the lenses to examin them.  The Tele-Elmarit has some
kind hazing which looks spotty.  I think this is the same as was discussed
here a few weeks ago.  The fifty seemed perfect. But when I took out the 35mm,
the focusing tab was loose. On closer examination I found the tab had broken
in half. This lens was valued at $1400 in perfect condition for the estate by
a Leica expert.  About the same as a new Asph.  With the broken tab who knows.
 I could probably get a the tab fixed, but the lens would no longer be perfect
and I could not, in good conscience sell it as new. I decided, therefore to
use the lens as I do not presently have a 35mm user. I glued the tab back on
and have shot several rolls.  The negs, of course, look great. So maybe the
tale is not so sad after all.  

Bosjohn