Re: [Leica] Re: Special Edition M6s

[Walter S Delesandri <walt@jove.acs.unt.edu>]

don't apologize , Dan....the True Collectors are a pain in the ass to everybody....
you haven't lived 'till you work for a Leica Dealer in sales or repair.....God 
saved me from collectors.....in l981 I left the field, never to return!! :) :)

Walt

On Fri, 30 Jul 1999 03:25:43 +0000 D Khong <dkhong@pacific.net.sg> 
wrote:
> Friends
> 
> I apologise if, in my earlier post, the use of the words "pitiful
> collectors" have ruffled a few feathers and riled a few other souls.  The
> expression was not intended to be derogatory towards anybody. 
> 
> I find the Leica collector spirit (or cult as some may like to call it)
> rather interesting, perhaps even amusing and unpredictable.  I remember at
> one time, the M4s were highly sought after; then the M2 and the M5 had
> their day as well.  I see a form of rotational interest which is reflected
> in the prices of these cameras.  This occurs inspite of the finite numbers
> of these older cameras in existence.  I have yet to understand the reason
> behind this rotational phenomenon.  Then there are the limited edition
> Leicas and special consignments in small numbers which are firmly in the
> hands of collectors until circumstances of various sorts release these
> bodies into circulation at prices beyond the grasp of the average Leica
> user.  I have personally not seen someone using any of these to take pictures.
> 
> Would I use a LHSA black painted model costing $3000 if I have the
> opportunity to lay my hands on one?  Sure I would and I would even welcome
> the TTL facility.  I am already using my M6HM which has now attained
> collectible status (now priced at $2200 or so) and I am having puhlenty of
> fun with the 0.85x viewfinder.   With those unpredictable rotational
> interest in Leicas, I am not sure that it is really a good investment to
> keep it in the box.
> 
> So while the notion of collectors maintaining the value of our precious
> leicas may seem attractive,  I do not see in what way those collectors with
> their Ein Stuck, Rooster, LHSA, M6J bodies, double ASPH 35 summiluxes and
> single ASPH Noctiluxes, and Thambar lenses, and what have they is
> contributing to the good value of the leicas that you and I are using
> everyday.
> 
> I would  like to put to you that Leica is keeping its value because the
> camera is a reliable device which, being mechanical, works day in and day
> out without reliance on batteries and often troublesome electronics.  It is
> hardy and one can find a 40 year old camera in GWC capable of giving years
> of good service if well cared for.  The design is elegant and aesthetically
> pleasing.  There are numerous models to choose from, and in various
> conditions to suit individual budgets.  Every one is well supported by a
> vast range of lenses, which when found in good condition, are all capable
> of producing good pictures.   The M camera, being faster in terms of
> response time, is also capable of pulling in those shots and expressions
> which are not possible with an SLR.  For others, there is that special
> chemistry which develops into a form of personal relationship with their
> leicas.  In short, even in the absence of collectors, Leica is capable of
> selling itself and keeping its value.
> 
> Dan K.
> 
> 
> 
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
>                     "A fool and his money are soon parted." 
> ============================================================================
>