M7 v. M6 TTL Viewfinders

[pcsmythe]

I've had an M7 for a while and have never had any problems with the viewfinder. I just picked up an M6TTL and am finding that the rangefinder field flares a lot during the course of focusing. Is this a difference between Ms or is my M6 having its own troubles? And if my M6 is having its own troubles, who in the US should I send it to?

[dfbldwn]

I was lucky enough to get sherrykrauter.com, in the U.S., to install the MP viewfinder conversion kit in my M6 (classic) and M7 (bought in 2002). I've read that the M6 TTL had a reputation for the worst of the viewfinder flare problems. Any M7 vintage offered an improvement over it, even my pre-MP version. The cost might seem stiff, but in low light, the contrast improvement alone, not to mention reduction of flare problem, could make your M6 TTL a real joy to use.

Congratulations on getting a camera whose shutter dial turns in the correct direction! [ducks]

[pcsmythe]

Thanks for the info, I've emailed her for an estimate.

[rob_x2004]

Out of interest, any one know what an MP Viewfinder install costs, ball park. US thousand, fifteen hundred, two grand?

Originally Posted by rob_x2004

Out of interest, any one know what an MP Viewfinder install costs, ball park. US thousand, fifteen hundred, two grand?

with the CLA, a few replacement parts here and there and a vulcanite leatherette you should prepare yourself for s.th. like a thousand USD net. Mostly working hours are accounting for that amount. I had it done on occasion of an overhaul of a M6 and would do it again.

[leitz_not_leica]

It costs ~$300 from Leica.

[pcsmythe]

From the estimates that I've received, $300 is more accurate. I'm looking forward to having it done.

[peter_n]

It is definitely worth it. Also here in the US if you have a Passport M7 with the old VF Leica NJ will upgrade it to the MP style finder under your warranty.

not wanting to look stupid i need to emphasize that i was talking about a M6 Classic, SN in the early 16....ties, which by sheer coincidence can be found in the classified section.