Any tips for a would be stereo camera purchacer?

[P3D Rich Harris <richarh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

        Hi there, the subject line says it all. I'm looking for a good
50's camera to end my days of hauling around a slide and tripod. I also
want to take pictures of moving subjects that I could never take before. 
So I need to find a good stereo camera. Unfortunately, I reside in the 
South which is far from any of the places I've seen that carry 
Realists, Reveres, Kodak Stereo's etc. I guess I'll have to resort to 
mail order, but I'm very leary of purchasing such an expensive item sight 
unseen. I've called around and I've noticed a large varience in the 
prices of certain popular cameras( i.e. Realist 3.5). I'm also very 
skeptical of these camera companies and the condition rating systems they 
use. I've never ordered anything used through the mail before so I'm not 
that thrilled with the prospect. I have a few questions.

1).     Does anyone know of a used camera shop around Atlanta or 
Charlotte that will likely have what I'm looking for? I'd rather drive 
for a day and know what I'm getting than purchase from ignorance.

2).     If I have to resort to mail-order, what kind of questions should 
I ask over the phone regarding the condition of, say, a Realist 3.5?

        a).     How should I interpret responses?

3).     Are there ways for me to protect myself in case I do get a bad camera 
for good money?

4).     Are there other options that I'm not aware of?

        I've heard of people finding bargains at flea markets and antique 
shows. I've been to what is reputed to be the largest flea-market in the 
south and your lucky to find a camera at all, much less a stereo camera. 
The vast majority of the stuff they peddle looks to be straight from the 
local landfill at that.

        I was just hoping that this August body would have the answers to the 
questions that vex me so. Any and all responses are appreciated.


Thanks

Rich Harris

richarh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx


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