How Much II - Second hand 35 RC

[Bone_Idle]

I bought a 35 RC rangefinder a while ago and eventually got it working (it was a corroded wire), it cost me £15 inc. postage.

Now I see this one 35 RC going for £343!

And this one 35 RC going for £175!

Are people mad? Or is there some sort of scam going on?

I have noticed the price is going up quite a bit though, with decent ones going for £50 plus!

I wouldn't part with mine though, I love it!

[Manofolympus]

The recovered one would be desirable to a collector because of the recovering, the light seal work and extras- I would imagine the huge final price is due to two last minute snipers putting in a large bid in order to win-which has resulted in the price being pushed to its dizzy level. Be interesting to see if the winner pays.....
The other appears in excellent condition and the price reflects that-the winner also appears to be bidding on vintage Porsche parts so presumably has a bit of dosh.
Olympus rangefinders seem to be getting more popular to collect-hence the general rise in prices.

[Manofolympus]

PS the second ended on a buy it now- presumably after an email haggle between seller and buyer

[Oly_Man]

I think the recent glowing review by Ken Rockwell has had an effect on the price of these cameras, even here in the UK. I was watching yet another 35RC recently with a £50 start and a £160 BIN (close to where I live, as it happens). Dunno really why I was even watching it as I already own one and had no intention to buy, but we do these things don't we? lol! It had attracted no bids in its first four days and was pulled with a couple of days to go. Wonder why that was...perhaps someone offered the seller close enough to the wanted £160 for them to end the auction early.

Personally I'm glad that film cameras like the 35RC are (at least) keeping their value. Unless the buyers' only intent is to display them in glass display cases, it has to be good news for those of us still using film: proves the demand's still there.

[Manofolympus]

Some auctions just don't seem to appeal-I think you need really good feedback with lots of good pictures in the listing to get that sort of money.

[Garfield]

I bought a 35 RC rangefinder a while ago and eventually got it working (it was a corroded wire), it cost me £15 inc. postage.

Now I see this one 35 RC going for £343!

And this one 35 RC going for £175!

Are people mad? Or is there some sort of scam going on?

I have noticed the price is going up quite a bit though, with decent ones going for £50 plus!

I wouldn't part with mine though, I love it!

I just picked one up for £39 from York Cameras in London. All in perfect working order and something of a bargain judging by those auctions!

[Guitarist]

Konica S2 Auto's better

[Bone_Idle]

Konica S2 Auto's better

It may well be! I have never actually held one but a quick Google shows it's a bit bigger. Can't compare on price but my 35RC was £9 plus £4 postage so I feel I've a great camra for the money. It was broken but all it needed was the corroded battery wire reconnecting!

The 35RC isn't the fastest lens, but it's got legendary sharpness and it will fit in my pocket (just) and has a very solid build!