Re: [Leica] Leica M3 cameras

[D Khong <dkhong@pacific.net.sg>]

>If I recall correctly, the leader had to be exactly 3 inches long or
>it wouldn't load correctly.

I have two M3s and I am able to load them with standard film leaders
without the need to trim any film.
>
>Is there in all reality a huge difference between the M3 earlier cameras vs
>the later models for reliability.  

One of my M3 is an earlier model with a double stroke film advance.  One
needs to get used to it and after a while, I did not miss any shots anymore.

>I notice
>that some guys have these funny little rewind knob levers on their M3
>cameras instead of the round knob which does slow down rewinding. 

I have not seen one personally.  Judging from my experience, the round
knobs on my M3 requires about 30 secs to rewind a roll of 36 exp (the
fastest way is to roll the knob between my thumb and index finger),
compared to about 10 sec. on my M6.   That 20 sec difference does not seem
like a lot of time wasted.

>Is there any concern for the glass pressure plate models?  Has anyone had
>the misfortune of it breaking?  Or is that one of those convert it to metal
>type retrofit projects.

Again I have not seen a glass plate model but have heard that many were
converted by owners to metal pressure plates over the years.

You will not regret buying any of the M3 models.  I find them solidly built
and are tough like Tiger tanks. I personally prefer the rewind knob on the
M3/M2 rather than the canted lever of later models.  Maybe it adds a
nostalgic retro look to the camera.  Makes other peoples' eyeballs pop out
a bit too :). The VF is well magnified at 0.91x and is a boon to eyeglass
wearers.  I find that the only quirk is the PC connection which I had to
fit an adapter to use with modern electronic flash.  Many find that it
sticks out on your face especially if you are left eyed. 

The M3 has 50+90+135 framelines, not so convenient if you plan on using
35mm lenses a lot.  You might want to think about this. One of my M3 came
fitted with 35+50+90 framelines (I still do not understand how) so I use it
like an M2.    

Dan K.