I've owned both. The CLE is a superior rangefinder. It's the Leica M7 before the M7 came out. The Canonette QL17 GIII is a great starter rangefinder but the throw was too short for me and I'm old, my eyes were having a hard time with the small lettering and numbering on the lens. The CLE just feels like a proper rangefinder. If you're looking at Canon, take a look at the P. It's a solid rangefinder as well. Competes nicely against the Leica M2\M3.
This a beauty Sir. I own one the predecessor, the Hi-Matic 7sII. She's in minty, pristine condition. I replaced the light seals and is in top notch working condition. It has the Rokkor 40mm f1.7. Takes wonderful shots with Porta 400 so far. Love Minoltas.
Nice camera but when the electronics give out you have a display piece. With old film cameras I try to stick to mechanical as much as possible. It sounds like the Leica CL if the meter gives out at least you can still use the camera.
Hi there! Just wondering what your thoughts might be on buying a CLE now in 2023. I love the camera and the design, but know that today it's all but impossible to find anyone who can service or repair these, I'm holding back a little bit with that in mind. Would love to hear your thoughts, and your experiences with your own. Thanks!
As with any electronic equipment, this can be prone to failure, especially considering it was produced in the '80s. But it's possible it will keep functioning for many more years! Yes you are taking a risk with these, but they are a very nice compact camera. Look for one that doesn't have any dents at all, as this shows it hasn't been dropped. :)
What's the bokeh like on this lens at f2? Is is comparable to the zeiss or voigtlander? Nice review of this camera. Incidentally these CLE's are difficult to find in the UK except on eBay where there are quite a few from Japan.
Yes, the camera can be used without the meter by taking it off Auto and selecting a shutter speed & aperture. You still need batteries in the camera though as the shutter is electronic.
I'm trying to figure out if the behaviour of my CLE is normal or not. I am in AUTO (A) mode and my meter seems correct, however, I notice if I keep my finger held down on the shutter, it keeps the curtain open for longer than indicated - indeed, I can keep it open for seconds if I wish. Is there a technique to 'choosing' the metered SS reading. Even if I'm giving the shutter button a quick tap, how do I know its actually using the correct exposure?
That sounds unusual Peter. I have not experienced this on my CLE. Do bear in mind the camera meters off the film plane, so accurate readings are only taken when a film is loaded! The only thing you can try is replacing with a fresh set of batteries. I'd recommend SR44 (silver oxide) type. You would normally know when the batteries are weak because you sometimes get a blinking meter light.
@@Samsung9alaxy I appreciate you getting back to me - can I ask, on your CLE, in auto mode, are you able to hold down the shutter button and effectively keep the curtain open? or does it always close at the right timing?
I just found one of these from my late grandfather. it looks like it has some age on the lenses, little foggy on the inside and such. The camera itself appears to be in perfect condition. Do you think it would be wise to sell it now? or maybe wait some time when they are even more rare? i don't really have a need for it as I'm not big in photography. it has a smaller and larger lense. i assume 35mm and maybe 90mm? it's not quite clear on the lense what they are.
@@Samsung9alaxy i really appreciate your advice on this matter. i wasn't expecting a reply. Thank you so much, and I will be sure to fully test the camera and be as moral as possible with the sale.
I always wanted the CLE with a set of matching Rokkor-M lenses when they were new, but could not afford them. I can afford them now, although the prices are high.. Unhappily, the Rokkor lenses have developed a reputation for element separation, with the failed cement turning a whitish color. Access to lens repair is unknown to me. Not worth the risk now unless you plan to use Leica lenses. A great camera, hindered inthe marketplace by a very high price.
@@Guairenito The modern Voigtlander lenses in M-mount are excellent, but I have no interest in tying up that kind of money in a 35mm rangefinder camera. The CLE body presents several aging issues, and by report is absolutely irreparable, for lack of parts and experienced repairmen. The CLE is an attractive alternative to the Leica bodies, most of which retain a firm grip on clumsy film loading and minimal features. But if you cannot assemble a CLE kit as a working collectible at a rational price, I see no reason to get involved with the system. At CLE used prices, that seems impossible. If I wanted to use Voigtlander lenses, I'd be far better off with a Bessa body.
Well, you showed us all the features. But you said nothing about how it is in use or whether you liked it. Lacking those comments, is this really a review?
Harry Lew Correct! This is more of a overview (like most of my videos). I am thinking about doing some videos comparing cameras (like SLR v rangefinder) in the future, but the way a camera performs is a very personal experience. Most of my videos are like Haynes manuals!
Professional cameras do not excist, are not for sale. Once in a while we meet somebody with a camera. Most of the time an amateur. Seldom a professional. Brand does not matter. But Linhof, Hasselblad and Leica are more professional.
One of the best rangefinders ever and one of the best street cameras ever
Excellent review - thanks for posting..
I picked up the QL17 after watching your review of it. You're making me want to pick this CLE rangefinder up now.
I've owned both. The CLE is a superior rangefinder. It's the Leica M7 before the M7 came out. The Canonette QL17 GIII is a great starter rangefinder but the throw was too short for me and I'm old, my eyes were having a hard time with the small lettering and numbering on the lens. The CLE just feels like a proper rangefinder. If you're looking at Canon, take a look at the P. It's a solid rangefinder as well. Competes nicely against the Leica M2\M3.
Love the Minolta CLE. Awesome simple design.
Another great video, thanks Tony
Film Camera Reviews Thank you!
Fantastic looking little camera
This a beauty Sir. I own one the predecessor, the Hi-Matic 7sII. She's in minty, pristine condition. I replaced the light seals and is in top notch working condition. It has the Rokkor 40mm f1.7. Takes wonderful shots with Porta 400 so far. Love Minoltas.
I've owned a 7s and 7sII. Great cameras, but I find I can't keep them all!
Love your videos, please keep posting!
Don Beeler Thanks. I will!
Først class Review! Thanks!
Excellent Sir Tony :-)
Another good one. Thank you.
Very nice review
A beautiful camera.
I have one and i love it. It's so cute
Nice review,whats your opinion on the lens?
Nice camera but when the electronics give out you have a display piece. With old film cameras I try to stick to mechanical as much as possible. It sounds like the Leica CL if the meter gives out at least you can still use the camera.
Thank you for this.
Wow it looks actually more beautiful as i thought 😍
Hi there! Just wondering what your thoughts might be on buying a CLE now in 2023. I love the camera and the design, but know that today it's all but impossible to find anyone who can service or repair these, I'm holding back a little bit with that in mind. Would love to hear your thoughts, and your experiences with your own. Thanks!
As with any electronic equipment, this can be prone to failure, especially considering it was produced in the '80s. But it's possible it will keep functioning for many more years! Yes you are taking a risk with these, but they are a very nice compact camera. Look for one that doesn't have any dents at all, as this shows it hasn't been dropped. :)
Nice camera,but are there any spare parts as this camera is around 40 years old!
What's the bokeh like on this lens at f2? Is is comparable to the zeiss or voigtlander? Nice review of this camera. Incidentally these CLE's are difficult to find in the UK except on eBay where there are quite a few from Japan.
I've sold the CLE now, but if I remember correctly the bokeh and sharpness was quite good.
@@Samsung9alaxywhy did you sell it? And what do replace it with?
@@DavidSk2683 I brought a Leica M3 because the rangefinder focusing patch is much better.
hello- might have missed it-If you have a inoperative meter- is the camera full functioning in manual mode? the shutter still works etc. etc. Thanks
Yes, the camera can be used without the meter by taking it off Auto and selecting a shutter speed & aperture. You still need batteries in the camera though as the shutter is electronic.
Samsung9alaxy thanks
it looks cooler than my cl
XY Zhou its one of the best Leicas ever
I'm trying to figure out if the behaviour of my CLE is normal or not.
I am in AUTO (A) mode and my meter seems correct, however, I notice if I keep my finger held down on the shutter, it keeps the curtain open for longer than indicated - indeed, I can keep it open for seconds if I wish. Is there a technique to 'choosing' the metered SS reading. Even if I'm giving the shutter button a quick tap, how do I know its actually using the correct exposure?
That sounds unusual Peter. I have not experienced this on my CLE. Do bear in mind the camera meters off the film plane, so accurate readings are only taken when a film is loaded! The only thing you can try is replacing with a fresh set of batteries. I'd recommend SR44 (silver oxide) type. You would normally know when the batteries are weak because you sometimes get a blinking meter light.
@@Samsung9alaxy I appreciate you getting back to me - can I ask, on your CLE, in auto mode, are you able to hold down the shutter button and effectively keep the curtain open? or does it always close at the right timing?
@@petermain1211 I have now sold the CLE so can't test it, but I never noticed that with mine. It does sound like a fault.
I just found one of these from my late grandfather. it looks like it has some age on the lenses, little foggy on the inside and such. The camera itself appears to be in perfect condition. Do you think it would be wise to sell it now? or maybe wait some time when they are even more rare? i don't really have a need for it as I'm not big in photography. it has a smaller and larger lense. i assume 35mm and maybe 90mm? it's not quite clear on the lense what they are.
The lens will get more foggy over time and the camera may become inoperable without any use, so sell now but be sure to mention any faults.
@@Samsung9alaxy i really appreciate your advice on this matter. i wasn't expecting a reply. Thank you so much, and I will be sure to fully test the camera and be as moral as possible with the sale.
Hi Tony,
Do you sell this camera? I'm looking for one! Thanks ✌🏼
It has been sold.
Can u do a review part 2 with you shooting with it with sample photos
I no longer have this camera!
Samsung9alaxy wtf. Smh. Enjoy the rest of your day man 🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
I always wanted the CLE with a set of matching Rokkor-M lenses when they were new, but could not afford them. I can afford them now, although the prices are high.. Unhappily, the Rokkor lenses have developed a reputation for element separation, with the failed cement turning a whitish color. Access to lens repair is unknown to me. Not worth the risk now unless you plan to use Leica lenses. A great camera, hindered inthe marketplace by a very high price.
Randall Stewart or you can actually get Voightlander M mount lenses for it 😉
thanks for the heads up on that one
@@Guairenito The modern Voigtlander lenses in M-mount are excellent, but I have no interest in tying up that kind of money in a 35mm rangefinder camera. The CLE body presents several aging issues, and by report is absolutely irreparable, for lack of parts and experienced repairmen. The CLE is an attractive alternative to the Leica bodies, most of which retain a firm grip on clumsy film loading and minimal features. But if you cannot assemble a CLE kit as a working collectible at a rational price, I see no reason to get involved with the system. At CLE used prices, that seems impossible. If I wanted to use Voigtlander lenses, I'd be far better off with a Bessa body.
@@randallstewart175 Yeap, that is true.
@@randallstewart175 I have a couple of Voightlander lenses for my Nikon SRL cameras and I love them
Have you had any issues with this camera?
Not really. The light meter seemed a bit temporamental. I've now sold it.
Well, you showed us all the features. But you said nothing about how it is in use or whether you liked it. Lacking those comments, is this really a review?
Harry Lew Correct! This is more of a overview (like most of my videos). I am thinking about doing some videos comparing cameras (like SLR v rangefinder) in the future, but the way a camera performs is a very personal experience. Most of my videos are like Haynes manuals!
"focusing is a little less than .8 meters". so 0.75 meters the cameras minimum distance then .... :P
Professional cameras do not excist, are not for sale.
Once in a while we meet somebody with a camera.
Most of the time an amateur.
Seldom a professional.
Brand does not matter.
But Linhof, Hasselblad and Leica are more professional.