Linhof mastertechnikas w/out rangefinders?

I've been thinking about getting a used Linhof 4x5 field camera and

noticed in a number of ads from camera shops in Tokyo that they sell

used mastertechnika's without a rangefinder (prices are about $2000 for

the body only). From the photograph, it looks exactly like the latest

mastertechnika 45's but with no rangefinder on the side of the body.

Was this camera ever sold in this configuration, or did a previous

owner perhaps remove it? I've also been looking for a used technika IV

or supertechnika IV but have found that they are virtually impossible

to find used in Japan, and, if available, they cost as much as a used

mastertechnika.

The current Master Technika 2000 has no rangefinder.

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Some people made a plate (John Sexton is one) and used it to cover the

rangefinder opening on models with the finder after removing it.

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The Master Technika has been made since 1976. Over that time I believe

the factory did make a few without the finde