Jump to content

Recommended Posts

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Hi guys,

I've got an order in for a black Leica M 240 but i'm wondering whether I made the right choice. I have a few concerns. I've seen a 5 year old chrome M8 that looks basically new.

 

Does brassing significantly affect the resale value? I use my cameras heavily and when the time comes I will be selling this Leica to fund the next - however many year away that may be.

 

Is the new black paint finish much harder/stronger than the last?

 

Does either color usually command a higher resale value?

 

Since I spend a lot of time in developing countries, does anybody realistically think that the black (with taped logos) looks less expensive / stealthier?

 

I know these concerns might seem artificial and pedantic to some but being quite OCD they matter to me. Apologies.

  • Like 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

Guest malland

If I were you I'd get the color I liked. Digital cameras drop a lot in value and I doubt there would be much difference in the resale price between black and chrome, although I would wager that more people would be seeking a black one. In developing countries, I doubt there is any difference in perceived value, although I do think that chrome looks flashier.

 

—Mitch/Potomac,MD

Paris au rythme de Basquiat and Other Poems [download link for book project]

Link to post
Share on other sites

If you are buying it for yourself, choose the colour YOU like. No one else matters.

 

If you are concerned about stealth, your behaviour when you are shooting is the prime factor, not the look of your camera.

 

If you are concerned about resale value, look after the camera without abusing it.

 

I think that covers all bases for you.

 

One more thing. Enjoy using it.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Since I spend a lot of time in developing countries, does anybody realistically think that the black (with taped logos) looks less expensive / stealthier?

 

I'm based in rural China and shoot all over SE Asia. I have always shot with silver chrome bodies (since my first Leica IIIC) and my M240 is silver chrome. I use a leather half case and people just think it's an old film camera. The silver chrome is a very durable finish, but it will scratch. Never a concern to me.

 

In Asia I worry much more when I'm carrying a big Canon dSLR with a white lens. Now that attracts attention. Most Chinese just think my Leica is some old Red Flag piece of junk camera.

  • Like 3
Link to post
Share on other sites

Black is perhaps more discrete. However, as Stephen wrote those chrome bodies look like those quaint old film cameras from the 1950s that never bothered anyone.

 

I was very partial to my champagne Nikon F3/T, and after a black M9 and Monochrom the M will be my my first chrome new Leica.

 

I agree with the posts above - just get the finish that you like.

  • Like 2
Link to post
Share on other sites

Get what you like best. I seem to be unfaithful to colour choices. I had a chrome M8 but when I bought an M9 I decided to buy a black one. Today I bought a Chrome one because I didn't want to wait "three or four days" for a black one but also probably nostalgia. I started photography with my fathers IIIf which still works though tropical humidity has ruined the lenses since they were bought in the early 50s.

Link to post
Share on other sites

If you like your cameras looking stealthy and 'less expensive'; black paint is idea. The patina developed through much use as your fingers slowly rub through the paint to reveal brass makes the camera look like a tool rather than a jewel. No gaffers tape needed.

 

Look after your gear, for sure; but please... just use it.

 

PS: I sold my brassed M8.2 for £2000 not long ago. Only £200 less than what I paid for it nearly two years before. Dents are negative. Scratches are negative (especially when over the viewfinder window). But mild braising? It's all part of the deal with the bp finish.

Link to post
Share on other sites

My wise old mentor taught me that I own the car, the car doesn't own me. This wisdom applies to other items of value too.

 

My recommendation, buy the camera with the intent of keeping it and using it to the fullest. Treat it with reasonable care, but don't let the price of the item get in the way of taking photos. If black meets the requirements of the shooting environment better, then buy black. I think you'll find after three or four years of steady use, the depreciated-value difference between a box-kept camera and one that has been well-used will only be a few hundred dollars.

 

Have fun, and enjoy the tools of the trade.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
×
×
  • Create New...