M3 Question

[kshapero]

Excuse my ignorance but what is a Leica "L" seal? I saw a listing on Ebay for a "Leica M3 with the L seal but need CLA". Please help.

[drewbarb]

Older M cameras had a wax seal over the screw in the top screwhole on the lens mount. Different firms authorized to service Leicas were given different seals to identify who had done work on them. An "L" seal was used by Leitz, meaning Leitz was the last firm to open up the camera. Collectors often look for cameras with L seals. Since the one in question has an intact L seal, it means it hasn't been serviced in a long time- probably never. Which is why the seller states it probably will need a CLA to bring it into best functioning condition.

[kiemchacsu]

Originally Posted by drewbarb

"L seal" refers to the wax seal on the top screw hole in the lens mount. An "L" seal means Leitz was the last firm to open up the camera; collectors look for these. It also means that the camera hasn't been serviced in- well, probably ever. Which is why the seller states it probably will need a CLA to bring it into best functioning condition.

As what you said,
however I heard somewhere that some repairmen can CLA the Leica Cameras without breaking the "L" seal

[ddutchison]

Originally Posted by kiemchacsu

...I heard somewhere that some repairmen can CLA the Leica Cameras without breaking the "L" seal

I can't see how.

The seal covers a screw which must be removed in order to take off the top-cover. While certain repairs (like adjusting the shutter curtain brakes) can be done without disturbing the seal, access to the camera's internals require that the top-plate come off.

That said, the seal consists of a soft black wax plug with a scripted "L" impressed in it. Not too hard to forge if one has a mind to deceive.

[kshapero]

thx folks. I am now educated.

[Rogrund]

Here's more info on the different seals:

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/foru...ad.php?t=42851