Expert: David Silver - 5/28/2010

Question
I haven't a clue where to begin with model numbers and prices for these pieces I inherited. I have some pics if someone is at all able to view them. The Leica says on the top M3-1045 167 AND THE FUJICA 5T 605N and the lenses are 50mm. Any advice please feel free to contact me at .


Sincerely,

Christa Auclair

Answer
Hello Christa,

Your Leica is a classic, a very high quality and valuable 35mm coupled rangefinder camera from the 1960's, and depending on the condition and the exact lens it has, the value can range from $500 to $1000.  I really need to see it to provide a proper evaluation.  Forward this message directly to me at <silver@photographyhistory.com> along with a couple of small pictures and I'll take a good look at it for you.  Then I'll give you a working value, and some recommendations on how to sell it with the least amount of stress and effort...

On the other hand, the Fujica ST 605 is not worth very much today, maybe $50 if it's in truly excellent overall condition.  I'm afraid it's a typical victim of the rampaging popularity of digital photography.  Not a bad camera at all, but the market for used examples of these second tier 35mm single-lens-reflex cameras has dried up the past three years.  Very sad...

Best wishes,

David Silver

P.S. It's now June 5th, I've added this additional note, and according to the AllExperts system you have yet to read this answer!  Christa, you have a valuable piece of camera gear there, and I already have three motivated collectors interested in buying it!  BUT I can't help you, and therefore you can't confidently go forward with a sale, if you don't read this answer and respond to me!!!  It all depends on condition and originality of the Leica camera and lens.  Please get back to me so I can help you out with this, thank you.  I just want to make sure you get all that you deserve, and that the Leica goes to an appropriate new owner who will preserve and appreciate it...


P.P.S. Today it's June 20th, and I'm sending MORE reminders to you because according to the AllExperts system you STILL have not read this answer!  Christa, I'm trying to tell you, you have a potentially VALUABLE piece of camera gear there in that Leica, and I already have three motivated collectors interested in buying it!  BUT YOU NEED TO GET BACK TO ME at <silver@photographyhistory.com> with more information and some pictures of the camera or I cannot help you cash out that value!  What is wrong?!