LHSA Definitions Of Camera Condition

I believe the LHSA publish a set of definitions covering camera

condition, ie what constitutes "Mint", "Excellent" etc. I haven't

been able to find anything on either the LHSA web site or on

Photonet. Does anyone have any idea what these definitions are?

Hi Gary,

Look inside the back cover of any of the recient LHSA "Leica Catalog" and you will see the complete "LHSA EQUIPMENT GRADING GUIDE" for both new and used items.

Not a member, you should be!. A great organization!. With a lot of member benefits, including the VIEWFINDER publication once a quarter.

Join today !.

Best regards,

Bob

Mint = Dragged through a hedge with soft foliage with lenscap on.

Minty or Mint minus = Dragged through a thorny hedge with lenscap on.

E++ = Same us mint minus but has been owned by someone with dandruff and sweaty nose so is covered in oily film and has loose particles all over and in it.

E+ = Same as E++ but has been used to prop up the television for a few years so wil need minor dents knocked out and light seals replaced.

E = Same as E+ but was purchased and used by resident of Chernobyl.

Good = As above but radiation is lower due to half life being exceeded.

Fair = Slightly more camera present than rust/cockroach carcasses/mould/duct tape/blu-tack.

As seen = May be 1 usable component still left somewhere in the camera if you have enough time and patience to find it.

May be of interest to a collector = 'As seen' but a confused trainee on his first day at Wetzlar did the engraving upside down and QC missed it. Now either worth $300,000,000 or is sitting on a dusty shelf in a charity shop behind a jig saw puzzle depicting 'Noddy and his friends' with a few pieces missing. (An apt description of collectors actually.)

Gary, To seriously answer your question... (a shortened version)

LN (like new)- Appears to be absolutely new & unused. A perfect example which could be NEW, if with cards & Packaging.

MT (mint) Only the Slightest hint of any use.

WEAR DETERIORATIN DAMAGE

MT- (mint minus) very light none none

EX+ (excel Plus) Very light very light none

EX (excellent) very light very light very light

EX-(excel minus) light light very light

VG (very Good) Moderate Moderate light

GD (good) heavy moderate moderate

FR (fair) heavy heavy heavy

PR (poor) For parts only

RC (reconditioned) state condition and by whom.

The Leica Historical Society of America is a great and diverse group of people. Intelligent people know the LHSA isn't all collectors. All Serious Leica people should join.

Happy Snaps,

Sal