How much for a beat up IIIf?

wlewisiii · 03-17-2006

Hello all,

At my FLCS today, I noticed a IIIf (sn is 663xxx for 1953 mfg.) w/ 50/3.5 Elmar in thier used cameras. I took a look at it and it's in rough shape. The vulcanite is chipped in a couple of places and the crome seems dingy rather than bright. The shutter sticks until the shutter button is pushed a second time on all speeds. The rf patch is very dim and at first I couldn't see it. All in all, a camera in need of a total overhaul from someone like Oleg or DAG. The Elmar is in good cosmetic condition and the uncoated glass is clear, but the aperture is extreamly stiff and its a bit rough in places when turning to focus - but it is smoother when off the camera so the problem may well be in the RF itself.

It's a consignment piece but the owner has really thrown up his hands at how much to ask for it given the cost of the needed repairs. I thought that I would enquire of the collective wisdom of the RFF and see what you folks think is a fair price for something like that.

In all probabilty, I'll simply make an offer for just the elmar, but still I'm curious what everyone thinks.

William

Brian Sweeney · 03-17-2006

Bear in mind you are looking at $200~$250 to get it repaired in the US; Oleg is probably a good bit cheaper. Offer on the lens, try $100~$150, at worst he can say No.

wlewisiii · 03-17-2006

That was my estimate to get it repaired, too.

I'll see if he'll let go of just the lens cheaply.

William

doubs43 · 03-17-2006

With Brian's repair estimate in mind I believe I'd offer $150 for lens AND body after I explained the cost of repairs. If he turns you down, either increase the offer for all of it to $200 or lower your offer to $75 for just the lens and be prepared to negotiate.

It's in bad shape and he knows it. Unless he's just plain stubborn - or misinformed as to actual value - I think he'll jump at your offer.

Walker.

wlewisiii · 03-17-2006

Walker, that's an interesting idea. I'll have to consider doing just that.

William