Likely Buying A Leica M3
- Thread starter JamesW
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Hey James,
used to have an M3 and loved it, but there are some things to look out for
1. Of course mechanical has to be smooth
2. Rangefinder patch on older models might be dimming so look for a relatively nice contrasty one. Generally the Single strokes are younger than the dual strokes. Most people prefer the SS models, but I really like the DS more
3. Almost all of them will require the leather to be changed, but it's cheap and easy. All you need to do is order the skin from cameraleather.com
Hope this helps
used to have an M3 and loved it, but there are some things to look out for
1. Of course mechanical has to be smooth
2. Rangefinder patch on older models might be dimming so look for a relatively nice contrasty one. Generally the Single strokes are younger than the dual strokes. Most people prefer the SS models, but I really like the DS more
3. Almost all of them will require the leather to be changed, but it's cheap and easy. All you need to do is order the skin from cameraleather.com
Hope this helps
alternatve
Senior Member
You can try www.keh.com, an online camera store. Seems to be pretty good, judging from the reviews. Or, you could go to peninsular plaza to check out the stores there. They do sell Leicas, but be prepared to fork out quite a bit.
alternatve
Senior Member
That's peninsular hotel if I'm not wrong. Yea, there's some good camera stores there as well.
You just missed a beautiful M3 sold by Justin. (Nitsu).
I think his equally attractive M2 was also sold recently:
http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=251153
Check whether he is willing to let go his M4
Good luck!
I think his equally attractive M2 was also sold recently:
http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=251153
Check whether he is willing to let go his M4
Good luck!
My take:
Unless you are sure that you will mainly shoot with 50mm or 90mm lens, avoid M3.
Why??
Not that M3 is bad (it is a great camera), just that it is rather old and its best part- the 1:091X VF is no longer available as a replacement part from Leica. And many M3's that I come across has issues with the VF: dim VF; weak RF spot, de-cementing. Even if you send it to someone to get it cleaned, maintaining its focusing accuracy is a challenge. Unless you are willing to pay a lot and send it for a CLA from ppl like DAG or Golden Touch (USA).
Using 35mm or wider lens on M3 is also a pain.
Get an M6 or a good M4 (could cost more than an M6).
Unless you are sure that you will mainly shoot with 50mm or 90mm lens, avoid M3.
Why??
Not that M3 is bad (it is a great camera), just that it is rather old and its best part- the 1:091X VF is no longer available as a replacement part from Leica. And many M3's that I come across has issues with the VF: dim VF; weak RF spot, de-cementing. Even if you send it to someone to get it cleaned, maintaining its focusing accuracy is a challenge. Unless you are willing to pay a lot and send it for a CLA from ppl like DAG or Golden Touch (USA).
Using 35mm or wider lens on M3 is also a pain.
Get an M6 or a good M4 (could cost more than an M6).
Peter Seow
New Member
Think M6 is quiter....I like the M3 more than m3 high built quality and better chrome.
Type slower abit. I catch no ball.
Back to topic. Still have yet to get my M3, though I've been eyeing Voigtlander RM3 alot for my first RF. Eyeing M6 too, but still at least 1K shot of vitamin M. :sweat:
thinkvision
Senior Member
try to get MP or M7, much much better....if dont try new M50/1.4Asph, u will regret.
Leica R 50/1.4 and M50/1.4Asph is the best standard lenses in this world
Leica R 50/1.4 and M50/1.4Asph is the best standard lenses in this world
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