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Originally Posted by PHOTOTONE  Ah, but there are other positive reasons to purchase manual wind camera bodies, since they will last much longer than electric wind. All cameras with built-in motors will eventually fail, and parts will no longer be available. We can still use manual-wind cameras from the 1920's and 1930's just fine. I have a Leica III from the 1930's that winds just as good as new. |
You're considering the exception rather than the rule. Most manual wind cameras after the early 70s do not have anywhere near the mechanical robustness in their film transport mechanisms as Leica rangefinders.
Do not forget that Leica IIIs have robust resale values and their parts are scavenged. That is not necessarily true for other marques and makes.
I prefer manual focus/winding cameras and that's what I use. But if I were basing my decision solely on fiscal sense and long-term "survivability" of my choice it simply makes more sense to buy several auto-wind cameras (whose values have, generally, fallen far more precipitously) and carefully store them. Most electrical motors, servos, and integrated circuits can last a very long time if they are not suspected to wear, dust, or other environmental factors. On the other hand, most lubricants used in mechanical cameras will simply dry out and require servicing after about 30 years.