Hi from Bristol Leica help needed

aybo

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ejan
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Hi,

I've just discovered a Leica m3 that belonged to my grandmother.
Firstly I would like to know where best to get it cleaned and secondly a vague estimation to its value.

The camera and lenses have not been used for 20 years or more and I assume they have been packaged for this time.
The m3 appears to be in fully working order. The body of the camera needs a good clean and both lenses internally and externally, there is dust in both and probably a bit of mold in one, I read that mold or fungi can etch the glass? I ‘m wondering how much it would roughly cost to clean the two lenses and camera. At present due to the dust it’s pretty hard to tell whether there are scratches on the lenses. If anyone could recommend someone preferably in the Bristol area that would be great or if someone comes highly recommended within the UK.


An estimation of this lot would be great (making the assumption that the kit turns out to be in good condition)
Leica m3 serial: 782733 1954 – lacking in lever to change viewfinder – few signs of wear,
Summicron 50MM F2 serial 12721130
Summaron 35MM F3.5 1 serial 302360
Original leather case
Meter - battered

Was’nt sure where to put this post as I’m new to all this, and cant post in the price section. Anyway Would much appreciate any advice.
Cheers Ay
 
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you lucky person - I haven't got a clue what you should do next but I wish I had a Lieca
Good luck
 
First off, welcome to the forum; and that's some pretty sexy stuff you've got there.

Sorry, can't help with anyone near Bristol; but Leica Mayfair would be more than able to get you on track! How about you give them a call? I've enquired with them many times, even before owning a Leica, and they were always happy to reply.
 
An will be at least £500, that Summicron will be around £500-£600, and the Elmar will be about £400. Off of the top of my head a full overhaul for an M body will be about £140, lenses are £40 each (at Red Dot Cameras). Get them fixed up and you'll have a Leica kit that'll last you a lifetime. Sending the camera to Leica will cost more (and will probably take longer), but I remember that you get a certificate from them saying that it's been brought back up to spec, they're known for servicing everything they've made.
 
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Hey thanks for the advice. Going to get them cleaned and insured when my next student loan comes in. I'm seriously looking forward to May. For now theyre going to stay safely at my folks.
I havent got an Elmar I think I have enough kit as it is:lol: I ended up sending an email to Leica anyway asking for a service/clean. They replied saying that a repair for a lens is a minimum of €250! Crikey, i did specifically ask for cleaning not sure if this is catergorised by them under repair.
Havent shot in film for a long time, possibly 7 years if you dont count those awful dispoable cameras that people give you at weddings. pretty excited at the prospect, though it does feel vaguely daunting.
At the moment, I use Nikon DSLRS we have some nice kit at uni. I mainly shoot in a studio and also use video alot in my work. I'm in the process of getting a website sorted out, when its up and running it would be lovely to get some feedback on my work. thanks again
ay
 
Woops, brain fart on my part - I meant the Summaron! You get a 6 month warranty with most Leica repair places by the way. Welcome to TP!
 
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