M3 'dim' rangefinder patch - is it fixable?

[cesc]

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Hi all!

Here's my story. I am an owner of two M bodies, a M3 and M2. Last christmas I sent my M2 to do a CLA and it came back in great shape. Then I noticed that my M3 rangefinder patch was dimmer than my M2 patch. I am posting examples about that, and let me know if it's my impression or I am right and the M3 patch looks weaker in contrast. If I didn't have the M2 to compare actually I would never had noticed it because the M3 viewfinder is so big wiht my 50mm that I was not aware of it.

So, do you know if a CLA will add more contrast or strength to the M3 patch? or it's something I have to live with.

Also I was thinking to get rid off my M2 and my Rolleiflex to pair my M3 with a MP body. That's a different thread of course, but any advices about this decision will be great.

 

M3 rangefinder patch

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M2 viewfinder

 

 

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[a.noctilux]

Hello Cesc,

sorry to let you know that it is normal for this many decades old M3.

Your M3 is not so bad if you can RF focus with it.

I still have one blind M3 with separated prism of VF.

The cure can be done by whole replacement of VF assembly with new available model at Wetzlar.

Or Angelfire (UK based repairer) can redo the prism, but may be costy.

https://www.angelfire.com/biz/Leica/page10.html

More in this thread (old one)

link to summilux.net for more addresses

M3 by Jean D

Edited February 19, 2022 by a.noctilux

[cesc]

Thanks Arnaud. i didn't know Jacques Fontana could fix that. Actually in May I have booked Jack Fontana services for this M3. He did a repaint to it long time ago and he still remembers this M body, so I will ask him to take a look at that RF.

 

[LocalHero1953]

25 minutes ago, a.noctilux said:

Or Angelfire (UK based repairer) can redo the prism, but may be costy.

https://www.angelfire.com/biz/Leica/page10.html

Angelfire is just the name of the web host🙂. This is actually the website of Camera Repairs & Restoration (CRR)! I don't think they are in business now, but perhaps others can confirm.

Edited February 19, 2022 by LocalHero1953

[a.noctilux]

Cesc,

You can ask Jacques if he can cure this dim RF.

While waiting May, just use this M3 happily.

Edited February 19, 2022 by a.noctilux