What to check when buying used M7

[sv.lad]

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Hello guys,

I'm going to buy used M7, seller says it's in mint condition and fully functional, but serial number starts with 2781xxx so it's 2001 batch, and as I know early versions have an issue with DX reader, so it's the first I'm going to check, is there something I also should worry about?

Do anyone know if Leica still upgrades the DX readers?

[Jon Warwick]

I have one of the earliest M7s. 
Not just the DX reader. A much bigger issue, in my view, is the rangefinder focusing patch can often flare, and makes it harder to focus than slightly later M7 models that benefit from the flare-free “MP” viewfinder. 
To answer your question, after asking Leica a few months ago, they do indeed still upgrade the DX and can also replace the viewfinder with a “MP” one that doesn’t flare.

Edited November 30, 2019 by Jon Warwick

[sv.lad]

Just checked the serial number on repair tracking (not sure I can use the serial number there, but it just showed to me the results for it), it was on repair in 2004, hope the reason was DX and viewfinder issues

[sblitz]

I believe the later M7s, not sure which year, had an upgrade to the meter system. 

[Doc Henry]

Check  serial number above  277 .... 

Rg H 

[Mark II]

My M7 was serviced at the beginning of this year, and had the DX reader change installed for free. I also had the viewfinder upgrade installed - not free, but not very expensive either. The improvement from the VF change is small, and probably nothing to worry about.

IMO the main reason to look at a newer M7 build is to get a camera with newer electronics. The problem is not the possibility of repair, but that if you suffer an electronic fault then there is a good chance that only Leica can solve it (ie expensive and often slow).

[sv.lad]

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Just got response from Leica (I send them SN and asked to check), they sad the camera was already upgraded with the new DX reader and MP viewfinder, so I'm going to visit store tomorrow.

[sv.lad]

Here it is!

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Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

[Doc Henry]

Congratulations for this acquisition 😀 ,  you will not be disappointed  try a Portra 400

Very nice and good condition . Bought in Leica Store ? 

Best Henry 

[sv.lad]

Thanks! I already checked out Portra 400 with my Minolta srt 101, definitely will use it in future.

I bought it on Ebay from a trusted seller, it's not a store actually.

Edited December 6, 2019 by sv.lad