Leica M3 DS Rangefinder Window Marks

[Big Jim]

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Hi 

I’m looking to purchase an M3 and have found an example that looks in very good condition but has these marks on the rangefinder window. Is this something to worry about ? Thanks 

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[wizard]

I suspect those 'marks' are internal, else you could clean the windows yourself. They could be dust or fungus and should be removed. A CLA is always a good idea with such an old camera, it should be very fine afterwards.

Edited November 7, 2023 by wizard

[mujk]

Agree with @wizard regarding the need for a CLA. BTW, the window in your first picture is used to illuminate the framelines in the finder, so it supposed to be frosted.

[250swb]

11 hours ago, Big Jim said:

Hi 

I’m looking to purchase an M3 and have found an example that looks in very good condition but has these marks on the rangefinder window. Is this something to worry about ? Thanks 

Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here…

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

Looks like fungus in both windows, and while it may otherwise be mechanically perfect to have it cleaned professionally you may as well factor in a full CLA. It’s one thing giving the inside of the windows a clean, but fungus this bad may also be on the rangefinder mirrors.

[Big Jim]

Thanks everyone. You learn something new every day ! The camera was sold to someone else. My search continues! 

[logan2z]

1 hour ago, Big Jim said:

Thanks everyone. You learn something new every day ! The camera was sold to someone else. My search continues! 

There are lots of fungus-free M3s out there, you'll find a better one.