Thank you!
This is one to keep on file.

I really hope everything opens up during this year. Travel, family gatherings and
outdoor activity has been absent from our daily lives longer than anyone expected.
Everyone, stay healthy and be safe, it can only get better...!
David C.

I do not think you would be making a mistake or reduction in image quality by going to the Leica DLux 7 series.
An accessory EVF, (electronic view finder) is available and works well as an option.
I have a DLux 5 which provides a 10Meg image. I believe the DLux 7 jumps to 18Meg. The camera functions are basicly the same on both, just more image resolution. During my pre-covid trip to Austria I carried a Leica R3 with
two lens options, (Elmar R1:3.5 35 - 70 and Elmar R 1:4.5 75 - 200), along with the DLux 5 and Leica IIIc. I used the DLux 5 the most much to my suprise. The IIIc has been my favorite camera for many years. I also visited the camera district in Austria and spoke with a techinician about my camera values and their condition. The DLux 5 still commanded a good market price. I was assured that all leica equipment in good working order holds its value. He also tried to buy my IIIc. You will not be upset with the change to a user friendly Leica. David C.

Rechargeable batteries are more susceptible to temperature changes, as they age. This is also true with just about any battery. The internal chemical reaction that creates a desired voltage slows down. Even "Lithium" batteries which tout a longer and more consistant voltage life are in the same boat, but to a lesser degree. Usually this noticeable effect happens in temperature extremes of below zero...but the older they get the more a viable voltage and usage time is experienced first hand. Take note on the many vehicles that have a plug-in battery heater plate option when sold in cold climates for both wet cell and gel-cell batteries, in addition to block heaters! They do work, I know this first hand.
When I drove and worked across Northern USA and Alaska I made of point of keeping extra batteries warm in the cab of the truck. As a photographer you can do the same until needed. David C.

This is an great film camera, the battery can be an issue but there are several adaptors on the market just for this camera. I use the PX32HM4n conversion. Back in the 60's this was one of the good cameras you could get in the PX. Well at least the PX in Alaska. At the time, I was on my way to Attu Island with a stop at Shemya, (in 1968), and purchased it there. I still have and use it. I also have the wide angle and telephoto auxiliary lenses but mostly use it with the standard Yashinon 1:1.7 f 45mm fixed lens. Film is still fun! David C. Note: It does seem to work best with ASA200 and 400 films.

Film is not dead! Like Bill I have a Contessa but usually resort to my Topcon 35L, just because it is so easy to use. I have a collection of old film cameras from my past, what I try to do is rotate their use with each roll of new film. But I do have my favorites, (the Leica IIIC and the Topcon 35L), which I keep on the ready...! Stay well and be safe! David C.

Nice lens with good photo clarity...the older real glass lenses will always be in vogue because of their quality, both the glass lenses and physical construction. You can also purchase an adaptor for almost any conversion.
Example: I have 2 wonderful Topcor R series long lenses with several adaptors for other cameras. My 300mm f2.8 and 500mm f4.5 have been used on Topcon and Exakta's, Nikon's, Leica R's and my Canon 40D Digital in manual mode. All with great results. The cost of adaptors is minimal and extends the use of the quality lenses from the past. David C.

Only one camera pops up when you remove cost options...Leica Q2. High quality and reasonably compact, ease of use adds to making this, " a dream come true camera". Include the optional travel case as well.
I have been using my Leica D-Lux 5 for years now and would consider the Q-2 as my only possible upgrade...
do you hear that kids? ...haha!
David C.

I have used Adorama for many years. They are my first choice for Leica and Topcon / Exakta, lens, parts and accessories. Other than some minor delays in delivery, I never experienced other problems like missing parts.
The one time shipping damaged delivery was resolved in about 30 days mostly do to the transit times and dealing with UPS. I would give them 30 days to resolve the issue.
Since that transit damage incident, I elect over night delivery if offered. Less time in the truck for potential damage or tempering. David C.

I have used them often and had great luck over the years. Only once did I have a question about a purchase and questioned the option they sent, (1 of 3). They reviewed my order and inital request then realized they sent the wrong item based on condition listing, (rating of 8 vs: a 9 or 9+). The return and correction was made and a reduced price courtesy was extended to me. I consider KEH one of the aboslute best sellers of new and used camera equement. David C.

Why not shoot film? It is still available at a reasonable price and the thrill of picking up the developed photos is fun every time you open the envelope for the first time to see your efforts. In fact, I have a day of film photography planned for tomorrow, with my 11 year old grand daughter. I am sure it will include lunch but the fact she wants to take film photos and not digital is wonderful. Don't give up on photography it is and always will be an expression of "you". David C.

I ran into the same question about 3 years ago. My youngest grand daughter and her family were going to Austria to visit my son who lives there. I wanted her to document the trip with some photos of her own. I looked through my collection of old film cameras and found what I thought was a perfect match for her age and her introduction into film photography. My choice was a Werra series 4, simple to use and advanced enought to offer a quality photo. About a 60 to 100 dollar value well spent / gifted to spark her new hobby. I have to admit she does prefer digital images on her Ipod or phone, I am not sure what she has but at least she is taking photos. David C.

dont mess with cases just buy a used Nikonos. They are very reasonable in price and are intended for use underwater. I tried underwater camera housings / cases in the past. They were expensive and required contant
checks for leaks. The O rings would be replaced and silocone lube was used as required but one bump or nudge in the wrong place and you have a leak. Even the housing for the Rolimarine of the 70s had problems. My Nikonos II is 48 years old and still works well with no leaks. David C

Never had a reason to inspect or clean a polarizing filter set. If you can remove the retainer ring I suggest you
not use a water based lens cleaner, you want to prevent any residual moisture and cloth lint on the interior filter surfaces, when reassembling. David C

I am no expert by any means but from what I see by head shape and markings, I think you have an excaped boa...??? Please keep us posted on the info you get, I am interested in knowing as well. David C

Wow! I was assigned duties there in 1973 to 1975. It is an East Meets West city and back then it was nothing to see a new Mercedes parked next to a Horse Cart. The old town or Citadel area had shops and a market Pazar right out of the 18 Century but with modern sound systems blaring ethnic music. I traveled all over the Middle East and what was then called the Arabian Countries, North Africa, India and many Turkish Cities prior to reasignment. I returned to Ismir Turkey in 1979 to 1981 for many of the same duties, but with a different agency. David C