Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/01/03
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I have one of these, but the restoration (1999) was made by an independent repairman. The starting point was a banged-up M3 I purchased cheap from a press photographer. But I asked my repairman before I made the purchase. Initially I only wanted a "technical" CLA, but then I got the "full programme": The vulcanite was replaced by M6 style vinyl, the bottom plate lacks the "auf/zu" or "open/close" engraving, the back door has the M3 style film reminder, but is black anodized instead of black paint, the cap/screw on the self timer lever lacks the two tiny holes. Collars on eyepiece, pc connectors, stutter release were replaced. There are new strap lugs, a new bayonette and shutter release button. In general, all parts with nicks or scratches were replaced. I think this what get if you ask Leica in Solms for a restoration. The resulting product is weird: technically and cosmetically frightfully perfect and essentially like new. So I wouldn't take it on a desert hike. But a picky collector would not like the replacement parts. However, I (which should be the reference) enjoy it and the total cost (don't ask) were below dealer prices for M3s in lesser condition. When I talked to my repairman last year, he indeed confirmed that essential spares, e.g. M3 rangefinder and top plate, are no longer available from Leica. So I assume my M3 is one of the last ones. At a local camera exchange I saw some M3/M2 top plates, without serial numbers, offered for DM 800. Didn't go. My conclusion and recommendation? Buy a filthy, cheap user M3 and take it to a trustworty repair(wo)man. Don't mind evenly fogged, out-of-wack rangefinder or whining shutter speeds, but avoid Ms with damaged shutter curtains, spots or strange reflections in the rangefinder which may require expensive or unavailable spareparts. Purchasing minty collectibles from ebay I find risky. Non-expert sellers sometimes have sentimentally biased opinions and minor defects or deviations from the original condition matter a lot. And the price level might justify more serious fraud. Hans-Peter