Leica M3 experiences

[Rich Silfver]

Never having been a Leica-nut at all I yesterday got an offer to buy a very nice looking Single Stroke Leica M3 (990,000+ serial number). Body only though.

I played around with it and it really looked as new and felt - I hate to admit - extremely solid and just...hmm...'good' in my hands.

Also - since I don't really shoot wider than 50 (I'd get a 90) the viewfinder on the M3 would be a good 'fit' from that perspective.

Does anyone here have any experience USING this camera?
(I would use it and not have it on a shelf).
The film loading looked like a pain and is honestly part of why I am being hesitant.

Well I have until next weekend to make up my mind.

It had just been CLA'd and with a warranty out to 2005 sometime.
Price is 600 dollars.