[Joeaksa]

Originally Posted by ronster

If you remove the lens and look at the top screw on the camera body lens mount the camera will not have been serviced if there is a wax plug covering the screw. If you see a screw head then the camera has been opened up and you should question what has been done to it.

This is correct but only if its not been serviced at a Leica service center or the factory itself.

I have a like new M4 that I had overhauled at the factory while I was living in Berlin. It has the wax plug restored after they opened it up.

Also have a IIIG and while its "old school" its still a lot of fun. That said after you use a M3 or newer you realize how much faster and easier to use the newer models are.

They are a work of art and they key is getting a good lens for it. The 21 mm super angelon is very nice as is the 50 mm noctilux.

I do have to add that most of my shooting these days is with the Digilux digital version... but there is nothing like film.

Those questioning the cost of a Leica and lenses. Buy it once and keep it for life. Its like the Rolex you lusted for as a kid, just a bit more versatile. Once I retire I will sell most of mine and get the last laugh as they keep going up in value!