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Special update for M3 years ago


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Does anyone remember a service for the M3 that Leica offered a long time ago, that upgraded the framelines from 50-90-135 to more options, such as the M4 has, and modernized the flash wiring and connections on the back to the later style? Maybe that also included a CLA.

 

I would think that if 35mm framelines were added, then the .91 magnification would have to be reduced to .85 or .72

 

Secondly, I have a photo from Flickr.com that shows a chrome M4 that had the film advance lever, timer lever, and frameline preview lever that looks exactly like the ones on a chrome M3. Are they available from Leica? I think that the current chrome film MP camera may have them. If the MP is still being produced, then they should be available from Leica's parts inventory. I would love to have that combination!

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If I'm wrong, someone please set me straight, but I believe that the 0.91 VF in the M3 can, in fact, be updated to the MP finder if you are so inclined, and you can choose any of the available finder magnifications. The viewfinder/rangefinder is the most expensive single part in the camera, however, so it's probably less expensive to buy a used M4 or M6. Unless your M3 finder has separated and can't be repaired, the main reason for buying an M3 is it's VF. The knobs, levers, and flash syncs can all be swapped. Both modifications can be done by any competent repair shop.

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  • 2 months later...

Coming in late on this thread, and this really doesn't address your specific question. But, Mr. Youxin Ye near Boston, MA swapped my useless M3 rangefinder out for an M2 version about a year ago. It includes the 35mm lines and is very easy to focus.

As best I can remember, it was in the $450 range. Seems like a lot of money to put into such an old camera, but boy, is it a joy to use now.

L

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Leica can upgrade the frames to those of the M6 Jubillee. I believe it is about £600, as part of the body needs machining away to accomodate it.

 

Susie

 

the M6 Jubilee is still M6 internally, which means flare on the focus patch. don't take out the superb M3 finder for the M6's. If you must, the M2 finder is still a good choice.

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