M3 1,1 M + serial number

Jan Cornelius · 06-13-2005

Came acros an M3 with a 1,1Million + serial number, it's boxed, no further papers with it.
It's condition is at a first glance great, not pristine but seriously near mint. The vulcanite is still deep black and "complete" no marks or schratches, the chrome finish is smooth and looks new. Obviously viewfinder is really clear. It comes with a metal cap, the times sound good.... the asking price of the guy selling it is 1050€ roughly $1300 ... looks really nice... but is this a reasonable asking price ?

rover · 06-13-2005

Prices in Europe are higher than they are here in the US. In addition to the near mint camera, you are also paying a premium for the box I am sure. Has the camera been serviced any time recently? Is there any evidence of the viewfinder decementing? (find info about half way down this page http://www.nemeng.com/leica/002be.shtml)

I recently purchased an 1,1 million M3 in good condition, not near mint, which was serviced by DAG (a reputable serviceman) less than 2 years earlier for $725.

StuartR · 06-13-2005

I would look at it this way -- if it is in pristine condition like you say, with all the most desireable M3 features and a very high serial number (experienced people put it together), I would say it is worth at least what an M6 or M6TTL is...and they usually go for that. The user M3's are usually in the 600-700 dollar range, with very clean ones going at around 1000+. I would say that it is worth it if you are willing to pay...especially if you consider that a new MP will be 3300 USD in a few weeks.

Ben Z · 06-14-2005

I can't say whether the one you're looking at is priced fairly but a few months ago I bought an M3, serial # also over 1 million. Vulcanite is complete with no patches, and there are no dents or dings, just a few "meter marks" on the top plate and some fine marks on the baseplate and some wear to the strap lugs (but no rub marks above the lugs). It came with the rapid-load spool and guide and the X-sync had been changed for the standard PC type, and DAG's "92" in the wax seal and DAG looked it up and it had been completely overhauled 2 years ago. I paid $751 in "Bargain" from KEH.

Brian Sweeney · 06-14-2005

Near Mint cameras go for double of a "user" grade camera. They are rare in that condition. If you want one to collect, and occasionally use, that is the going price. If you want a "user" condition camera, you can spend a lot less.

It is a fair price for a near-mint example, and about 1/2 the price of a Nikon SP in similar condition.