Try moving the frame line selector and ensure it is not stuck in any position. Turn the lens focus tab from one end to another, ensure the focus patch is moving smoothly. This usually requires a full overhaul / CLA ( clean, lubricate, adjustment ) by a certified technician. Should you see any hazing or mild blurriness in the viewfinder, it’s an indication that it might have fungus or oil evaporation. Look through the viewfinder as well as the centre focus patch, it should be sharp and bright. If you see this, avoid the camera at all cost as the desilvering will worsen over time and it’s costly to replace. The moisture penetrates the silver coating on the back of the mirror, causing it to separate from the mirror glass leaving black dots or marking on the affected areas. Ensure the mirror element inside the system has no desilvering ( black markings ) which usually happens from moisture buildup. One being the viewfinder with the biggest opening (right), the middle opaque window is the frame line illumination window and the smallest one being the rangefinder focus window ( left ). Just ensure no dents or flat edges as it’s an indicator that the camera has been dropped and might have some internal damage.Ĭheck the condition of the viewfinder and rangefinder window - If you view the camera from the front (where the lens mount facing you), you shall see 3 windows. The scuffing usually comes from installing and removing these light meter. That is pretty normal for user grade cameras. For Leica M2 and M3, top plates scratch near the Leica script as well as the shutter speed dial usually resulted from the Leica Meter attachment. Usually, high milage cameras tend to have more scratches on the bottom plate, top plate as well as the leatherette area near the strap lugs. Having collected more than 50 cameras over the past 8 years, I have formulated some simple steps on how to perform these check on your own. Given the high value and collectability of these evergreen film Leica M cameras, it makes much sense to thoroughly check it before taking the plunge to avoid heft repair bills that might hit you later on. Buying a used camera can be a daunting task especially when the camera is approximately 20 years or older.
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