Leica MD-2 data strips

[wlaidlaw]

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I am considering adding an MD-2 to my collection. I have found a boxed Bundeseigentum one at a reasonable price. Sadly it no longer has the data slot bottom cover but I could acquire that separately. My question is: Assuming I can no longer buy the correct data strips, can I make these myself by cutting strips of a translucent flexible matte finish acrylic film with my large paper guillotine, which has a parallel cutting guide. I would like to find at least one original strip to measure with a micrometer to measure the correct thickness, estimate how flexible it should be and ascertain the exact dimensions. The problem may be finding a material that has a writeable surface. 

Wilson

Edited February 1, 2022 by wlaidlaw

[Pyrogallol]

Some MD data strips for sale here, don’t know if the MD2 uses the same ones?

https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2545226.m570.l1313&_nkw=Leica+MD+data+strips&_sacat=0

[wlaidlaw]

1 hour ago, Pyrogallol said:

Some MD data strips for sale here, don’t know if the MD2 uses the same ones?

https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2545226.m570.l1313&_nkw=Leica+MD+data+strips&_sacat=0

Thanks for that info. I am looking at another MD-2 from a German seller and whereas not a Bundeseigentum camera (which in reality only identifiable by serial number and a paper sticker on the bottom plate - no engraving) comes with both bottom covers, plain and data strip. It includes quite a lot of data strips, plus box, manuals and other paperwork. I know it needs a CLA as the shutter speeds are declared as inaccurate but I would assume any older M camera would need a CLA anyway. I have asked the seller if he would be prepared to send direct to Jerzy (forum member) in Vienna for the CLA. By the time that is done, I would be down at my French house and can side step customs and VAT for imports from Germany to UK. 

Wilson

[sandro]

Wilson, that sounds like a  very nice set you described in your last post. I assume the bottom for the data strips is chrome instead of black? They were first introduced with the ND and also matched with the MDa and MD-2.

Lex

[wlaidlaw]

Lex, 

The data strip bottom plate for the MD-2 I am looking at, is a matching black. The black data strip bottom plates for the MD-2 are quite rare. I am just not sure if I would use this camera, so do I just buy it as a collector and don't bother with a CLA. However the USP of my collection of 35 Leicas, is that they have all been restored to full "as original" function. If I buy the MD-2 now and get it sent to me in the UK, I have the duty problem and after my last experience with the faulty/returned MOOLY-C, where the UK authorities still owe me over £300 in a VAT refund but are taking forever to process this, I am reluctant to get involved in this again. I could ask the seller if he would keep it for me until I go down to France in April but then I lose my Paypal guarantee. 

Wilson

[sandro]

Wilson, I understand your problem. I didn't know there existed black data strip bottom plates for the MD-2! Never seen one. I have my Leica M bodies and all my lenses in condition to be used, so everything I buy usually first goes to Will van Manen.

Lex