Japanese Type 89 "Machine Gun" - Part II

[somd_mustangs]

As per usual if I find something interesting, I have to keep looking for other variations. This is the "first" variation of the Type 89, while the other one https://www.mdshooters.com/threads/japanese-type-89-machine-gun.271037/ is the second, later one. There are some subtle and not-so-subtle differences between the two. This one caught my eye on ePay of all places (there are several of them on there) mostly because the price was way lower than the others. Looking at the listing, it still had the crate too which was a big plus. Then the serial number caught my eye and it was time to make them an offer After a shipping snafu where they managed to send me the wrong item, this arrived today - I guess UPS was running today (xmas eve) to give Santa a hand.

The "round counter" on top is missing, the rear sight is all bent up, and a few screws are missing but overall not too bad. The crate latches have been replaced, not the end of the world. Probably done when it was shipped back, since the originals are just hooks. The listing pics didn't show the front sight so I figured it was missing, but it was buried down in the bottom of the crate. The other one I got came with a spare set of front/rear sights which works out perfect. Bonus points for the alternate "remote" trigger assembly, numbered to the unit. And SUPER bonus points: an original, correct chronometer for the Type 89 Konishiroku Rukuoh-Sha and made by Seiko. It wasn't shown or mentioned in the listing so a very pleasant surprise. This watch is really hard to find and is actually worth more than the rest of the rig. So Santa smiled on me.

 

[somd_mustangs]

Close-ups of the chronometer, and the lense and mirror used to record it.
Numbered to a different camera. The top line reads "89 Type" and I think the 2nd line is some variation of "Konishiroku Rukuoh" some of the symbols are on the data plate. Maybe someone that reads Japanese can translate?

 

[somd_mustangs]

Comparison of the two types, the early one is in front. The earlier is longer and has a much different cover and drive assembly for the film. That necessitates a different center "ring" mount to allow the cover to be removed. Neither one of these seems to have a drive system that works, probably either gummed up or maybe a broken mainspring (hope not).

 

[mawkie]

I would never have thought you would find one or more of these on Evil Pay of all places. Glad you were able to negotiate a price that worked for all involved (love that newer feature, helps when the seller has no clue what to list something for and shoots for the moon). Congratulations and merry Christmas!