Well that's up to you. For many people these cameras have great sentimental value―and do to the quality with which these cameras were made―they have lasted many decades and with routine service and maintenance can last many more. Many of these cameras, although lacking in many of today's features, are built to a standard that few if any cameras built today can ascribe to. These manual cameras offer many serious photographers the thrill of controlling the image making process, not just going along for the ride.

Another thought to consider is that since 1946 there has not been any real improvement of a camera's ability to render an image on film. Yes, I agree that quality cameras have gotten easier to use and certainly more affordable, but put the same film in a 1955 Leica and any current 35mm camera you choose and I assure you that if anything the vintage 1955 Leica will yield the superior image.  And by going to digital― image quality has actually taken a dramatic step backward. So there is a definite logic in keeping your beloved film camera operating at the peak of its performance.

What exactly involved in a restoration?

• This varies with the type of camera, the model, and manufacturer. There are general operations that are performed on all cameras;
• Disassembly of camera body
• Clean and degrease all major operating assemblies
• Remove all deteriorated foam seals, strips and bumpers
• Renew above seals, strips and bumpers with better than OEM material. Note: If historical accuracy is required I can use manufacture's specification material if available (note: not recommended as this material does not hold up as well as the new material)
• Adjust shutter both speeds and curtain travel times
• Calibrate meter
• Clean focusing screen
• Lubricate and adjust advance, shutter, mirror drive etc.........
• Check overall operating parameters
• Reassemble and check all for Good Working Order
  
   

How much does this cost?

This of course varies with make, manufacturer, and the exact amount of work needed to bring the camera back to manufacture's specification. I can give you a general price range. This applies to the vast amount of Rollei cameras. If you require a specific dollar amount I will be glad to provide a free estimate upon inspection.

• 35mm SLR......................$68.50~ $98.50
• 35mm Compact rangefinder......$64.50~ $84.50
• 35mm Fixed focal length lens..$38.50~ $68.50
• 35mm Zoom lens................$58.50~ $88.50
• Medium format body............$78.50~$118.50
• Medium format back............$58.50~ $88.50
• Medium Format lens/shutter....$88.50~$128.50
• Compur, Copal shutter.........$68.50~ $98.50

Why do some people seem to do this work for less money?

I have been servicing professional level equipment for over 30 years and you would be amazed at the short cuts and outright butchery I have seen on many cameras. Well put quite simply, I DO NOT TAKE SHORT CUTS. Since I am basically retired* I have plenty of time to do these repairs correctly. Also I have a vast supply of parts that I have acquired over the last quarter century so I can afford to do a through service properly.

*No I am not that old―only lucky enough to have the time to do what I really enjoy.

If I choose to invest in my film camera how long will it still be usable?

Not being psychic I can't give you an exact time frame but I can certainly offer an educated guess. Film cameras will most likely be usable for many decades to come and then some. If it is any indication, you can still get film in sizes for cameras that haven't be made in over 60 years and many companies―Fuji, Agfa, Kodak, Konica and others―are still bringing out new and improved films even today.

How long does this service take?

At the present time I am returning cameras 5~6 business days after payment is received. This time will vary depending on current work load. I will always give you a completion time and generally ship the day of completion. There is rarely a parts delay as I have an incredible parts inventory on hand and I always try to maintain an adequate supply of general items and materials need to properly complete your camera. I  maintain an ongoing relationship with most major camera manufactures and OEM suppliers to insure availability of parts and the latest in service updates and techniques .