[FreeSpirit9]

Just thought you all might find this interesting. Is AU$1575 a realistic price?

Extremely Rare 1957 Asahi Pentax AP Original Black Body Only | eBay

[microlight]

Interesting indeed, although maybe the seller is hopefully trading on it being a black body. The price seems high for a camera that needs some loving attention to the shutter and prism to make it usable. I managed to get a chrome AP body in pretty much mint condition a few years back for less than a tenth of this price, and a 'S' model shortly after (it's my avatar) which is a true rarity as fewer than 5,000 in total were made, and black ones are consequently like hens' teeth. So while it would make a nice paperweight without repair, I wouldn't pay that much for it even if it was in working condition. YMMV.

[monochrome]

READ THE DESCRIPTION CAREFULLY.

That's a lot of money for a camera with all those faults just because it has black paint. Fractured prism! Missing 2nd (I presume he means) curtain (so both curtains must be fabricated) - ask. First curtain needs ribbons (likely fabricated). Locked advance lever (related to faulty shutter). Frame counter surround dinged, locking the indicator.

Eric likely won't have these parts. Fabricating them is much more money than a simple CLA. You'll additionally need a donor camera for the prism and counter surround.

I have 2 CLA'ed Asahiflex (Tower 22 and 23), working silver AP, silver H2, black H3, pristine silver K and SV, all bought with a correct lens and cap included and all better cosmetic for just $95 more USD converted. Generally I don't pay up for black paint or perfect cosmetics (except the K) so I got good prices for working cameras, but still . . . .

Maybe Baard-Elnar will disagree, but IMO this is a Display body only. $1,575 AUD + shipping is rich.