Unusual Leica M3 late version 1 (1955)
Serial number 775 893This version 1 M3 is in superb condition. It is beautiful and unique and really must be seen to be appreciated. It features the single dot rewind and the filled film counter triangle and older shutter speed sequence appropriate to this model but also has the frame finder lever and five screw lens mount more often associated with the version 2. As the version two did not officially begin until serial number 785801, this camera is clearly of the first version but represents a significant evolutionary step in the development of the legendary M3. Ghester Sartorious, in his book "Identifying Leica Cameras" rates this variant as "R-" (fairly rare). There are no dings or scratches but there are some light "rubs" and a small depression on the top plate where the meter was mounted. The original owner has inscribed his driver's license number on the bottom plate. I would rate its cosmetics as a 9+. Mechanically is is a 9++. It has had a complete shutter overhaul to full "blueprint" standards (all speeds accurate to +/- 10%, 3 times better than Leica factory standards) and the range finder has been cleaned and calibrated. The deteriorated original vulcanite has been professionally replaced with a sumptuous wine red snakeskin. The rear door has been sanded down to base metal and repainted with a lacquer that very closely matches the sheen of the original. In restoring this camera I elected to leave the top and bottom covers as they were found in the interest of historic integrity. This camera is so perfect I have gone out of my way to illustrate its few flaws. Please examine the images closely. I think you will be impressed!
Certified payment assures immediate availability. Personal checks may require 7 to 10 days to clear. Please refer to the shipping calculator below for charges. For international buyers we accept BidPay and PayPal. This allows you to pay by credit card from anywhere in the world.
Here are my policies (legalistic "Bull Plop"): I reserve the right to cancel bids from Ebay members with a high level of negative feedback, low feedback or patterns of suspicious activity. If you feel you may be in one of those categories please email me before bidding. Your show of good faith will allay the evil suspicious side of my nature in almost all cases. I have always found that it is better to trust first and get even later :-).
I never end an auction once it starts. Please do not ask. If there is a reserve I am happy to tell you what it is. If you think I am crazy you are welcome to mention this fact to me. If you make a good argument I will lower it.
If you don't speak English very well please do not worry. I don't speak it that well either (and it is my first and only language). Be assured that I am far more embarassed about my inability to speak your language than you are with mine.
Schlocky
Abrasions and small depression from a meter Single dot rewind Filled counter pointer Wax seal from shutter overhaul Small depression around the x sync connector Original owner's driver's license number inscribed on the bottom
No strap wear on either end Click here to see my other auctions International Credit Card Payment through
