Thank you very much for this informative and insightful episode. I've been a fan of the M system since the late 60s and haver never owned an M camera. As I approach my 60th birthday I will be treating myself to an M system camera and your discussions have answered many of my questions and help me to make the most informed decisions.
30+ year member of the LHSA, now the International Leica Society, wrote articles fo our quarterly journal, “Viewfinder”. Just stumbled on this video now. Great job, guys.
Thanks guys for the long conversation on the Analog M's. I was delighted to see this one pop up but it was 1am Irish time so I had to tune in the following day! Looking forward to the content and more videos. Cheers
It is hard do imagine the exhilarating feeling of making photographs with a classic Leica camera. Dave & Josh, I just received a beautiful 1954 Leica M2 immaculately refinished in matte Gray metal and Tan Leather.... The images from the first roll of Ilford FP4 are so reminiscent of those from first Leica M2 I purchased in 1964. I have always been motivated to take more care of images I make with a Leica. Is is so pleasant to not rely on a light meter, no worry about a battery. The shutter on the M2 is quieter that almost any camera I have owned through the years. Thanks for keeping the lore and craft of Leica in the public view with your ongoing presentations.
I dig the M6 TTL not so much for the TTL flash metering (which is nice when used), but for the ergonomic improvements that were introduced with this model as noted in this video. The larger shutter speed dial that can be easily manipulated with one finger while the camera is drawn to the eye is a big plus. That the the rotation of the shutter speed dial (as well as the aperture ring on the M lenses) actually correlates to the direction of the arrows in the improved metering system is another big win for the M6 TTL. These simple, straightforward design changes made for a much better user experience, yet the are often overlooked by many.
Not to be that guy, but the M-A finder is slightly different from the MP finder in a number of ways. 1. It lacks the metering grid that sits in front of the glass (the one that the metering info is projected onto on the mp), which means the M-A finder is actually brighter and higher contrast the the MP 2. It has unbroken framelines (noticable with 28 and 35mm), where the metering arrows are on the MP 3. It has slightly different 75mm framelines than the MP
I want to start by saying how much I am enjoying these videos. They are very informative and some of the most in depth overviews of each camera system I have seen to date. My only gripe is that David and Josh are constantly talking over one another. It is clear they are both excited about the product (who wouldn't be?), but if the talks were more composed and each allowed the other to finish their sentence or point, that would make these already good videos, great.
Yeah. I agree. They did a great job overall. But their personal interactions/responses sometimes (unintentionally) come across as a bit negative. There are numerous occasions when they seem to be agitating each other... rather than vibing with each other. ("I've told them that already"... "There's a diagram on the bottom of camera"... "I've never had that happen", "What is it? ...It says it right there!" etc.) That's all fine for off screen chats... But you need a bit more of the old "Yes... and" improv rule of responding to your partner when on screen.
Youxin at YYe is awesome! He's CLAed an M3, M2, and two M6's for me. I'm lucky enough to live about 20 mins. away from him. He has invited me over to watch him perform several CLAs which always blows my mind. Great guy and his prices are awesome. Highly recommended.
You didn't do the M5 justice! You didn't talk about the unique meter it has which is a spot meter that very accurate, it meter shows as to two needles which allows you to see the stop difference compared to the dot and arrow M6, it shows the shutter speed in the viewfinder unlike any M (the M7 does it in aperture priority but not manual, it's the last Wetzler produced model, last Leica built the old what like the M3, M2, and M4, and the last M that was engraved instead of stamped and the fact that it has side lugs mean you don't a camera strap in the way of your hand!
Owned an M5 for a year, loved it. Old Leica dealer.. Ohh so many cameras.. Nikons, Leicas, hasselblads, we sold em all.. Leica is optics . these guys are body mechanical junkies., Its lenses baby..
What's wrong with the leatherette at 59:00 close to the frame line lever and battery cap? Is the camera not BRAND NEW? I'm getting frustrated with how many problems Leica cameras have as new. I have an MP myself. The first one I bought I had to send back due to rangefinder issues. The second one has inconsistent spacing between frames and the rewind release crank sometimes gets stuck. Sure, I can send it back and wait 6 weeks for it to get fixed but isn't it disappointing? How much does a Leica MP cost and why??? (rhetorical question)
I just used leica since its digital, never had the guts going film, even when i had the m60 though i was already comfortable without have the screen... the leica m10-d changed everything, i made a jump with the m6 and now the MP, quite such a journey and glad i did... love processing and developing at home too... it is my own entertainment...
Note that the M-A has the old shutterspeed knob with the 'slid'' forthe MR meter, only available second hand. I hoped they would bring a modern version of the meter as well, but no ....
it would be great to have an episode on the M2. imo one of the most interesting M bodies with it's use in international conflicts. definitely more of a journalists camera than the M3 which was often a "holiday" camera
The M3 is still the one with the best viewfinder for 50 mm lenses and longer due to its 0.91x viewfinder which no other M model has. The M2 implemented the 0.72x viewfinder due to the wider 35 mm frame lines. Both cameras serve different purposes. But I wouldn't consider the M3 a holiday camera.
The early version M2 had a few other ‘cost cutting’ [non]features that you didn’t show; no self-timer, no lens release guard, front button film rewind release (at first without a guard and then with a surrounded metal guard). The RF is less complicated than the M3 to produce. If I remember correctly the list price was $40 cheaper. Later M2 had the same M3 style lever film rewind release, and some (later M2x, but not all) had the self-timer added. The M2R was as mentioned released [for the general public] from the military cancelation of the M2 KS-15 contract, which featured the introduction of the ‘rapid-load’ system. The KS-15 also had some ‘weather sealing’ for dust, and was internally electronically ready (one that I had) for upgrading to a motor film advance.
I always thought the m3 double stroke was so you didn’t have to move your hand so much like trying to get a full crank on a single. I know I’ve wrecked frames (on other cameras) by not cranking quite far enough. Also, I like memorise the MA & MP as Meter Absent & Meter Present. ;)
25:45 There's a lot going on here, so I will let the viewer decide. Just a couple points to add: Screwmount Leicas also had the Leicavit to allow for rapid winding. The M3 had a glass pressure plate which was more prone to static discharge. Don Goldberg (DAG Camera) has an image on the effects of this on his website.
Hi - Great talk. I realize that I'm resurrecting a ghost comment thread, but I thought I'd leave this here for anyone reading in future: the Barnack camera shown early in the video is a IIIa model, not the the IIIc mentioned. Also, the move from DS to SS on the M3 was not due to the static discharge issue, though it was coincident with the fix implemented for it - that is, the change from the glass pressure plate to the metallic one. FWIW
nice intro to all the analog Leica cameras! Just to add mp3 set production is 1000 copies, 500 in silver and 500 in black paint, in each for the 500 silver and back cameras, 375 are set with lens and winder and 125 are stand alone cameras
My M6 is out performing my savings bonds which reduces my indulgence guilt levels. It is simultaneously the most expensive and cheapest camera I've ever owned. Most importantly I love using it.
Regarding the M2-R, wasn't there a quick load kit you could add to an existing M2? And also a KS15-4/M2S (Army version)? How do you distinguish among all these? Mine does not say M2-R on the top so I'm guessing it's a KS15 since the quick load kit looks a little different. I bought mine from KEH decades ago AS a M2 so I've always wondered.
Regarding film, there are films whose effects are difficult to replicate in digital, such as Kodak HIE (sadly gone). I still have some frozen, though who knows if it is still good or if cosmic rays have impaired it. But that infrared effect combined with the lack of a halation layer would be hard to do in digital. I'd say the same about Kodak Tech Pan, though that too is OOP and the effect it creates would probably be overcome by M monochrom cameras. Plus I don't use film much these days (hence all the frozen film), but there is a certain magic about trying to make those frames count and seeing negatives on film after development. I still have all the BW development stuff, if it still works.
Note that the M6 TTL meter electronic chips are no longer available. I have heard there is a tech that has come up with some kind of retrofit to at least get a working meter back into the TTL version
The M5 uses the mercury batteries, so you need the adapter zu reduce voltage from modern 1.5. v to original 1.35 v, or use the short lifespan Wein zinc/air replacements!
The analog cameras Leica makes and sells now have a meter in them (Leica MP) and still services them. It seems most of the older ones can be serviced in a similar way too.
So then an MA is essentially an M2R /M2 KS15-4 with six frame lines, automatic resetting counter, no self timer,and moderh flash socket (X only), correct?
DS: Don't forget they made the screwmounts before the M3, wich had this big advance knob, so they where indeed afraid of advancing to fast with a lever. This was untested teritory.
The M3 came out at the same time as the IIIG. My IIIG has a Leicavit rapid winder. A brilliant camera and accessory that makes the IIIG a single stroke.
Do you have any idea why Leica failed to include a self-timer with their Leica M-A and MP? My first thought about my new Leica M-A was, "Ah, an M3 with a warranty!" My M-A is close to an M3 but it's not quite there. It doesn't have a self-timer.
Video @ 9:30 - "static build-up" - Well due to the 50's era in film cassette construction (felt & popular re-load cassettes etc.), static was the concern & the main reason for the intentional slow-pull of the film emulsion out of the roll of film. - Later due to the competition bringing out Single Stroke models, Leica capitulated to the marketing... Video @ 10:18 - "you can convert a Double to a Single" - Not easy & NOT recommended unless the ratchet style OEM transport unit is swapped out (Good luck finding the parts). But a tech can remove the 'End-Stop-Pin' which turns the transport into a weak & problematic performer. If a camera is Single winding & you don't hear the minor clicking as the lever goes back to its standoff position, it's likely one of those mod'ed (butchered) units😥 Video @ 44:01 - "M6TTL speed dial direction" Early on this really upset some hardcore & longtime M users. They were used to the speed dial direction of their early 'stuff'... Video @ 49:34 "there's two companies" - Youxin Ye in Massachusetts ? - Guys, Youxin doesn't perform a C L A to "factory tolerances"❗ - In fact, he's not factory trained, doesn't like difficult repairs/models, turns down most if not all lens repairs, and those who are truly in-the-know, state that he suffers MANY service Redo's; just ask Don at DAG, Sherry Krauter and/or Gus... Video @ 57:14 - "MP the pinnacle" - I totally agree, the MP model contained the latest internal upgrades, among many others & most significantly was the multicoated RF elements! Video @ 1:12:17 - "If it ain't broke don't fix it" - True, but as with cars, precision watches, lenses and CAMERAS, it's certainly not prudent to run a bunch of outgassing OLD acidic oil & grease thru precision & polished surfaces, let alone sit on crystal clear RF elements and coatings. The true 'Wow Factor' comes from a crystal CLEAR viewfinder and its 2nd image. Doubtful that if today someone picks up an unserviced M3 (due to the probable fog/haze laden surfaces), it would provide that "Wow Factor"... Video @ 1:27:38 - "quietest analog - settled the debate" - It's actually & without a doubt the Leica M3 - Problem is that you likely have an improperly serviced sample (Curtains too tight and brake mis-adjusted). In over 60 years, it's very common to have cameras completely out of adjustment and/or serviced by an incompetent technician... In fact many techs in trying to offset for congealed lubricants, CRANK-UP the curtain tensions rather than servicing them 'right'. This can easily result in a louder/noisy shutter..
what servicing technicians would you recommend for Leica M film cameras? Is Leica in Germany the very best to get the M3/4/5/6's (and lenses) CLA'd just right? or are there USA based ones that are virtually just as good (and in turn cheaper) ?
@@Kevon420 - Germany ? - Well if you want a $3,000 bill for a service that currently runs about $600 total with the top 3 Leica techs in the USA, then go ahead ship it to them. - Sherry from "Golden Touch", Gus from "TLC Camera Repair" or Don from "DAG" - Gus is the only one that replaces the collectable & authentic 'L' wax seal...
I think the "MP3" as you described it was in fact "M6J" --- 40 being produced for each year of M cameras (1600 approx cameras in total)--it looked a bit like the M3 but had metering and a crank rewind. ---and as you say was indeed very nice camera!
From personal experience, I highly recommend as film shooter to do the whole process yourself and avoid external labs. External labs don't give you control over the development process, you can't test with different developers, and it IS much more expensive. I do all C-41 and E-6 developments myself, one C-41 development kit costs $40 and lasts me for 20-30 films. Compare this with external lab development cost (cost gets crazy for medium or large format films!). Disadvantage is the time I spent for developing (30-45 minutes) and scanning (about 3 hours with minimal post processing for 35 mm film). But it's my hobby, and I enjoy doing it. Also, an external lab also takes time to get the film developed....I have my results directly after the shooting if needed with my own development. I have my own darkroom, but I admit that this is a time sucker. Lots of try&error, but when I get it right, it is an unbeatable print result compared to any other inkjet print.
My M3 was single (long) stroke when I got it a few years ago. Didn’t know then that all M3s weren’t SS. Sent it off for CLA, even though it was working well, and it came back changed…sometimes SS and sometimes DS, and I never know which it will be. I’m getting used to it and was glad to find your discussion on the M3 SS and DD “feature.” I love my quirky M3.
Wait this can’t be right. Right? Didn’t watch the whole video but did they say something like this exists? Never heard of it before and sounds more like something is damaged inside.
No word about the rangefinder patch flare which is an issue with all M6 cameras? You only mention it in regard to the early M7 models, but the issue is most severe with the M6 cameras. The light meter of the non-TTL M6 version is turned off in "B" mode on the dial.
What do you mean developing and building a dark room doesn´t save you money? Of course it does! Don´t let these people let you hold back! Especially when you process s/w will it definitely save you money!
Yes the 50 mm is better for close-up ortraits (although 75 mm is even better); 35 mm is better for environmental portrait, street photography and landscape... (90% of my images have with a summicron 35 mm since the mid 1980s).
@@BrunoChalifour Thanks for the input. I'm hoping to get a Leica M-A in the next year or two, and I keep changing my mind! I'll most likely start off with 50mm, then later on add a 28mm and a 90mm. That'll be a very versatile 3 lens kit. The alternative would be 24mm (or 21mm), 35mm and 75mm.
Analog M cameras have a horizontal rubberized cloth focal plane shutter. These type of shutters are limited to 1/1000th. Digital M cameras utilize vertical composite blade shutters, which can accelerate/decelerate quicker. These cameras have 1/4000th max shutter speed. The speed difference is related to materials, as well as the fact that the horizontal shutter has to travel a 50% greater distance (36mm vs 24mm).
Just to help you guys : messsucher is pronounced like making a mess , hard S and Sucher has the main pronunciation on the U : suuucher together : messsssuuucher . Cheers you are great
Dev black and white then "scan" with a DSLR (or mirrorless) and macro lens you already have works out pretty cheap and not too time consuming once you've got it up and running.
Okay one is just getting to a point about a feature and the other one interrupts causing the first guy to forget and go onto another issue and repeat it happens again. Deep breathe and let each other speak. We really are interested
The M5 needs to be adjusted to take a modern (lithium) battery instead of the original (mercury) one. Otherwise you're stuck with those horrible Wein cell batteries.
Over the time these circuit got old and there is a big chance that with 1.5v battery there is not much difference after all. My cl works fine with 1.5v without any tuning, tested against a sekonic
I have had an M3 for years and just got the MP, and for the life of me I don’t see why people have such a hard time with the shutter speed dial direction. I would argue it’s “correct” in these cameras and NOT in the others. Here’s why. Thumbs. It’s all about the thumbs. Move your THUMBS in the direction opposite the red arrows. When you grasp the aperture with your left hand, your thumb is on top. Move that thumb in the opposite direction of the red arrow to get proper exposure. Shutter speed? Same exact thing. Put your right hand on top of the camera and grasp the shutter speed dial. Where is your thumb? On the back of the wheel. Move that thumb opposite the direction of the red arrows - just like your left hand thumb on the aperture ring. Just think about the thumbs and you’ll be fine.
Double stroke supposedly put less stress on the mechanism same with the film rewind knob straight down vs angled was more mechanically sound keeping with ,Erica's tendency for mechanical perfection
Hi guys! I'm looking to purchase a used black paint MP with the serial 469xxxx I was wondering if I could have some kind of reference to find out the year of production? Thank you ;)
No the M5 battery is a mercury battery I think, like the CL (first one) and you have to either use short term wein cells, or have the camera modified for modern batteries or some kind of adapter. It's problematic for my CL.
Given that camera in German is “Kamera”?, shouldn’t it be Leika? But I digress. As an owner of a M6TTL and M7, I have always read that the M3 is unique and that has piqued my interest. Is it really that unique and interesting given what I already own?
The other theory re the M3 was it was named to distinguish it from the Barnack three model which was concurrent up to `58` I think. Thus you could buy the Rangefinder three or you could buy the Barnack 3. When the Barnacks were discontinued they filled in the gaps as it were and brought out the M1 and the M2
Cool and informative video. One point: M6s are Magnesium alloy not Aluminum. BTW.. I have an M6 classic and the shutter speed dial is easy to turn with one finger. The direction is fine too, you just have to get used to it like any camera.
I wouldn't disregard the Leica III series cameras for actual usage. I am using the M3 and IIIc in parallel. IMO it makes sense to get a low cost Leica III series cameras (no collector model of course) and have it CLAed. With both you are still far below the price of a used M3, and the III series cameras are the smallest in size. Next advantage of a Leica III series camera: much cheaper LTM lenses available than M-mount lenses especially from third-party brands. You can get a IIIc, CLA, Canon 35/2.8 LTM, and Leica 50/2 Summarit for less than $1200. Try to do this with M gear.....and the IIIc rangefinder is great, too.
Obviously some pretentious hipsters who never shot a M5 in their life, otherwise they wouldn’t call the M6’s meter more usable. What’s that even supposed to mean? You could only not use a very small selection of mostly specialized wide angle glass on the M5. And sure the M5’s meter had the arm mechanism which can break, but in exchange the M5 is an indestructible brass tank instead of the zinc (not aluminum) used on the M6. But let’s focus on the light meter. The M6 and all the other Ms with a meter have a center weighted meter which is known for being prone to get convoluted by backlight and specular highlights. The M5 has a spot meter which’s incredibly precise and lets you pic out which part of the exactly you want to expose for.
You’re forgetting the collapsible lenses, which are far more popular than the special wide angles. Leica made quite a few collapsible lenses before they made the M5, and many people use them, myself included. The M5’s meter arm will hit collapsed lenses. Without question, the M6 has a more usable and versatile meter, no questions asked.
@@johnclerefilms You can tape the collapsible lenses so they won’t go in too far into the body, as described in the M5 manual making them work fine with the M5. I’ve been having to use an M6 since august now and I really miss my M5. I don’t understand your point on the M5s meter. It’s more precise and won’t be fooled by stray light light the M6. I’ve been resorting to an external meter while shooting with the M6 simply because I can’t choose where I want my middle grey to land precisely with the M6. The M5s meter has never let me down.
@@VariTimo This is yet another example of the frustrating way people talk about Leicas. The M5 and the M6 can both be perfectly good cameras, it’s not a competition. If you put the right lenses on it and adapt modern batteries to it, the M5 is a fine camera. I even happen to like the needle-style meter. But there are countless M6 users, myself included, who’d say your assessment of the M6’s meter is ludicrous. It has an excellent and accurate meter and uses the same center-weighted metering featured in dozens of other top-tier professional cameras of its era, notably the Nikon F-series. In all my years of shooting with my M6, I have quite literally never once had the meter misread a scene. It’s an excellent meter. No one here is saying the M5 is a bad camera. You like yours, and that’s fine. It’s not a competition. If you like the M5, that’s all that matters. But what was said in the video is accurate, the M5’s meter is less useful. Frankly, if you have to modify certain lenses so you can use them on the camera, if you just simply can’t use some others, and if it takes weird batteries that you can’t go buy at your local store, then yes, inarguably, it is a less useful meter. But if it works for you, that’s all that matters. It’s OK for two things to be good at once. The M5 and the M6 can coexist peacefully.
"Mess-Sucher" means "measuring seeker", if you translate it directly. So "range finder" is just a delivering the result "find", while the original german word is still seraching for it...😉
Leica's are known for their heft. That heft or weight gives people the false impression that they're also "rugged." During loading I accidentally dropped my M-A about 4" onto a hard, wood surface. Now, I'm wondering if I need to send my M-A back to the factory to have the rangefinder adjusted. Adding to that question is the fact that I have the f/0.95 50mm Noctilux lens, a lens notoriously difficult to focus 'wide open.' Does my rangefinder need factory readjustment and/or am I physically unable to focus my Noctilux lens wide open? This gear is expensive. I shouldn't have to ask!
My m6 and m3 where daily shooters. my 1a, with a serial number in the 40,000s is precious. M3, and early M6. Leica is Optics. So much on the bodies, so little on the optics, resolution charts, chromatic aberations, centering of optics, ya project a resolution chart through a taking lens and look for wobble on a rotating mount.. Wetzlar factory,.. M6 release, priceless. these guys treat leica as jewelery. I push their optics.. Kodachrome 25 pro,shot on leitz, projected on a pradovit , Resolution, tonal range, definition in highlights and deep shadows. If i want jewelery i buy diamonds and gold
We do love the M cameras for their iconic design, amazing shooting feel and well-crafted mechanics. But we are also right there with you on the lenses. In fact, we dedicated four episodes just to M lenses: Wide-angle M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/6sAk3CeuAPc/v-deo.html Telephoto M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/dPqgt7meCd4/v-deo.html 35mm M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/F2xWJhrIFrA/v-deo.html 50mm M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/ZDFaVRc_7_I/v-deo.html
@@RedDotForum umm the 15. Wasn't leitz. Was zeiss, mid 70s sumicrons, the 35 was magig on tri x. Montrealer Midland was not far. EL can . Magical. Have a pair of 7 50 marine binoculars. Paid 750 Canadian in 77 . In the 80s I was buying sleves for the leica singer projector and 90mm 2.5 lenses 100 at a time. Machine the back of the lens and sold over 300 of em to Kodak slide projector owners. Still use my pradovit 1500.. and thanks my m6 says wetzlar.
Umm whanna scan my kodachrome 25 profesional, bring your high res projector, i have my pradovit lets go big.. Ohh leica school at wetzlar in the early 80s, m4 to m6 transition.. use those cameras . um kodak so 5015. made technical pan look like trix. was about 10 asa, but the resolution.. Ohh Kodachrome 25 pro in 35 was about 30 megapixel.. As paul simon said , Kodachrome
LOL so true about the darkroom. One day I will build one because I love the process. The esthetic comment on one of your episodes was the best statement about film. Most are a whole different league. Medium format or 4x5 you just burn a contact sheet and you are GTG.
Why don't these guys take off their glasses and use the right screw-in dioptre corrector? It is not good for your glasses to press them against the viewfinder - the lenses get scratched, especially plastic ones. But you need to keep your glasses case with you to put them in. I got a hardly used second hand MP about 15 years ago for a modest price. I had no idea it was worth such a lot. Now I am scared to take it out of its case. There is a lot to be said for a clean-ish M2. Old lenses make nice pictures with digital cameras. The old 50mm Elmar with 15 diaphragm blades has a lot going for it. They seem to have got expensive though. They were about £100 in 2005.
Maybe they use the diopter correction on their own cameras. It wouldn't be practical to have them for the dozens of camera they are showing in this video.
Great video as always! But your German is atrocious 😅 I never thought someone could butcher the word Messsucher so badly ... it is indeed a hard language. Love you!
umm focusing is more forgiving on anlagog than digital WTF leica m has a great presure plate.. its the sensors and the digital algorythims.. Kodachrome and Cibachrome dont lie.. Age very well
I have a Leica M-A. Yesterday I attempted to load the M-A with a 36-exposure roll of Kodak Portra 160. That should have been a simple, practically foolproof procedure, but it wasn't. As I carefully began to wind the film from -2 to +1 on the 'counter' dial I felt a snag in the film winding. "WHAT could have caused that?" I asked myself. Well, what caused the snag was a very slight tear along the "top" edge of the film. This slight tear had caught on the internals of the M-A. Only after removing the M-A's bottom plate and carefully removing the metal film canister could I see the slight tear in the film. I wish I were certain that this film tear had occurred at the Kodak factory. but the film came from my local camera store not in a sealed Kodak box but in the familiar, refrigerator-cold, plastic container. Anyone at the camera store could have opened that plastic container before it was sold to me. Who's responsible for the film tear?
double stroke... some photographers were still using the older film base... also, Leicas were also used in scientific and medical situations of high oxygen concentration and a spark could have been critical...my M2 was probably the single most influential camera I have ever purchased. The M5 with the larger shutter dial...clever idea... but in practice, each shot I took could accidentally change the shutter speed setting. This happened often and I had to continually reset the shutter speed. The M10P and 10M have put me back to a similar level of comfort as the M2 and enjoyment of having and using a rangefinder cameras.
Time stamps would be great
Thank you very much for this informative and insightful episode. I've been a fan of the M system since the late 60s and haver never owned an M camera. As I approach my 60th birthday I will be treating myself to an M system camera and your discussions have answered many of my questions and help me to make the most informed decisions.
30+ year member of the LHSA, now the International Leica Society, wrote articles fo our quarterly journal, “Viewfinder”. Just stumbled on this video now. Great job, guys.
Thanks guys for the long conversation on the Analog M's. I was delighted to see this one pop up but it was 1am Irish time so I had to tune in the following day! Looking forward to the content and more videos. Cheers
It is hard do imagine the exhilarating feeling of making photographs with a classic Leica camera. Dave & Josh, I just received a beautiful 1954 Leica M2 immaculately refinished in matte Gray metal and Tan Leather.... The images from the first roll of Ilford FP4 are so reminiscent of those from first Leica M2 I purchased in 1964. I have always been motivated to take more care of images I make with a Leica. Is is so pleasant to not rely on a light meter, no worry about a battery. The shutter on the M2 is quieter that almost any camera I have owned through the years. Thanks for keeping the lore and craft of Leica in the public view with your ongoing presentations.
I dig the M6 TTL not so much for the TTL flash metering (which is nice when used), but for the ergonomic improvements that were introduced with this model as noted in this video. The larger shutter speed dial that can be easily manipulated with one finger while the camera is drawn to the eye is a big plus. That the the rotation of the shutter speed dial (as well as the aperture ring on the M lenses) actually correlates to the direction of the arrows in the improved metering system is another big win for the M6 TTL. These simple, straightforward design changes made for a much better user experience, yet the are often overlooked by many.
I’m thoroughly enjoying these videos. I appreciate you putting the time and effort into exploring all of these topics!
Not to be that guy, but the M-A finder is slightly different from the MP finder in a number of ways.
1. It lacks the metering grid that sits in front of the glass (the one that the metering info is projected onto on the mp), which means the M-A finder is actually brighter and higher contrast the the MP
2. It has unbroken framelines (noticable with 28 and 35mm), where the metering arrows are on the MP
3. It has slightly different 75mm framelines than the MP
M7 was the One I always wanted to buy, I should have gotten it when I had the chance around 2009-2010.
I want to start by saying how much I am enjoying these videos. They are very informative and some of the most in depth overviews of each camera system I have seen to date.
My only gripe is that David and Josh are constantly talking over one another. It is clear they are both excited about the product (who wouldn't be?), but if the talks were more composed and each allowed the other to finish their sentence or point, that would make these already good videos, great.
Yeah. I agree. They did a great job overall. But their personal interactions/responses sometimes (unintentionally) come across as a bit negative. There are numerous occasions when they seem to be agitating each other... rather than vibing with each other. ("I've told them that already"... "There's a diagram on the bottom of camera"... "I've never had that happen", "What is it? ...It says it right there!" etc.) That's all fine for off screen chats... But you need a bit more of the old "Yes... and" improv rule of responding to your partner when on screen.
Thank you guys for another great evening.
Thank you so much for doing these, I’ve learnt so much watching these episodes. Massive kudos 👍
Glad you like them!
Thank you for an in-depth review assorted with personal knowledge and anecdotes. As usual very educational and entertaining.
Youxin at YYe is awesome! He's CLAed an M3, M2, and two M6's for me. I'm lucky enough to live about 20 mins. away from him. He has invited me over to watch him perform several CLAs which always blows my mind. Great guy and his prices are awesome. Highly recommended.
This really clears everything up for anyone thinking of buying an old Leica m, super helpful. Thankyou
Glad it was helpful!
You didn't do the M5 justice! You didn't talk about the unique meter it has which is a spot meter that very accurate, it meter shows as to two needles which allows you to see the stop difference compared to the dot and arrow M6, it shows the shutter speed in the viewfinder unlike any M (the M7 does it in aperture priority but not manual, it's the last Wetzler produced model, last Leica built the old what like the M3, M2, and M4, and the last M that was engraved instead of stamped and the fact that it has side lugs mean you don't a camera strap in the way of your hand!
Owned an M5 for a year, loved it. Old Leica dealer.. Ohh so many cameras.. Nikons, Leicas, hasselblads, we sold em all.. Leica is optics . these guys are body mechanical junkies., Its lenses baby..
I agree with you!
The m5 meter is spectacular
What's wrong with the leatherette at 59:00 close to the frame line lever and battery cap? Is the camera not BRAND NEW? I'm getting frustrated with how many problems Leica cameras have as new. I have an MP myself. The first one I bought I had to send back due to rangefinder issues. The second one has inconsistent spacing between frames and the rewind release crank sometimes gets stuck. Sure, I can send it back and wait 6 weeks for it to get fixed but isn't it disappointing? How much does a Leica MP cost and why??? (rhetorical question)
I just used leica since its digital, never had the guts going film, even when i had the m60 though i was already comfortable without have the screen... the leica m10-d changed everything, i made a jump with the m6 and now the MP, quite such a journey and glad i did... love processing and developing at home too... it is my own entertainment...
Note that the M-A has the old shutterspeed knob with the 'slid'' forthe MR meter, only available second hand. I hoped they would bring a modern version of the meter as well, but no ....
You have to be careful with those, as they can scratch the camera.
The meters damaged the chrome. Might as well use a mobile phone app these days.
it would be great to have an episode on the M2. imo one of the most interesting M bodies with it's use in international conflicts. definitely more of a journalists camera than the M3 which was often a "holiday" camera
The M3 is still the one with the best viewfinder for 50 mm lenses and longer due to its 0.91x viewfinder which no other M model has. The M2 implemented the 0.72x viewfinder due to the wider 35 mm frame lines. Both cameras serve different purposes. But I wouldn't consider the M3 a holiday camera.
yep that viewfinder is amazing.
The early version M2 had a few other ‘cost cutting’ [non]features that you didn’t show; no self-timer, no lens release guard, front button film rewind release (at first without a guard and then with a surrounded metal guard). The RF is less complicated than the M3 to produce. If I remember correctly the list price was $40 cheaper. Later M2 had the same M3 style lever film rewind release, and some (later M2x, but not all) had the self-timer added. The M2R was as mentioned released [for the general public] from the military cancelation of the M2 KS-15 contract, which featured the introduction of the ‘rapid-load’ system. The KS-15 also had some ‘weather sealing’ for dust, and was internally electronically ready (one that I had) for upgrading to a motor film advance.
I always thought the m3 double stroke was so you didn’t have to move your hand so much like trying to get a full crank on a single. I know I’ve wrecked frames (on other cameras) by not cranking quite far enough. Also, I like memorise the MA & MP as Meter Absent & Meter Present. ;)
25:45 There's a lot going on here, so I will let the viewer decide. Just a couple points to add: Screwmount Leicas also had the Leicavit to allow for rapid winding. The M3 had a glass pressure plate which was more prone to static discharge. Don Goldberg (DAG Camera) has an image on the effects of this on his website.
Hi - Great talk. I realize that I'm resurrecting a ghost comment thread, but I thought I'd leave this here for anyone reading in future: the Barnack camera shown early in the video is a IIIa model, not the the IIIc mentioned. Also, the move from DS to SS on the M3 was not due to the static discharge issue, though it was coincident with the fix implemented for it - that is, the change from the glass pressure plate to the metallic one.
FWIW
Thank you for this insight.
nice intro to all the analog Leica cameras! Just to add mp3 set production is 1000 copies, 500 in silver and 500 in black paint, in each for the 500 silver and back cameras, 375 are set with lens and winder and 125 are stand alone cameras
My M6 is out performing my savings bonds which reduces my indulgence guilt levels. It is simultaneously the most expensive and cheapest camera I've ever owned. Most importantly I love using it.
I wish the M-Phad the same finish as the M-A, looks so nice
I'd take a black lacquer finish m-p over anything tbh 😩👀
The M-A black chrome is my preference over the MP black paint. Less finger prints or smudges.
That aged well.. No more M6. Leica M6 2022. Haha love this podcast/show Leica
Miami is the BEST!
Regarding the M2-R, wasn't there a quick load kit you could add to an existing M2? And also a KS15-4/M2S (Army version)? How do you distinguish among all these? Mine does not say M2-R on the top so I'm guessing it's a KS15 since the quick load kit looks a little different. I bought mine from KEH decades ago AS a M2 so I've always wondered.
I believe the M6 has a top plate made of zinc not aluminum.
Cast zinc, for sure
Since when was the M6 plates made out of aluminum- the M6 like the late models of the M4-P all had zinc plates that suffer from oxidation
Regarding film, there are films whose effects are difficult to replicate in digital, such as Kodak HIE (sadly gone). I still have some frozen, though who knows if it is still good or if cosmic rays have impaired it. But that infrared effect combined with the lack of a halation layer would be hard to do in digital. I'd say the same about Kodak Tech Pan, though that too is OOP and the effect it creates would probably be overcome by M monochrom cameras. Plus I don't use film much these days (hence all the frozen film), but there is a certain magic about trying to make those frames count and seeing negatives on film after development. I still have all the BW development stuff, if it still works.
Note that the M6 TTL meter electronic chips are no longer available. I have heard there is a tech that has come up with some kind of retrofit to at least get a working meter back into the TTL version
Can you only sync a Flash at 1/60s on the Leica M? No faster speed?
The M5 uses the mercury batteries, so you need the adapter zu reduce voltage from modern 1.5. v to original 1.35 v, or use the short lifespan Wein zinc/air replacements!
will the m7 or any of the metered analog cameras still be serviceable in the years to come? say, 20yrs +?
Timothy Lua only time will tell.
The analog cameras Leica makes and sells now have a meter in them (Leica MP) and still services them. It seems most of the older ones can be serviced in a similar way too.
Incredibly helpful video. Thanks guys.
Glad you enjoyed it!
So then an MA is essentially an M2R /M2 KS15-4 with six frame lines, automatic resetting counter, no self timer,and moderh flash socket (X only), correct?
B setting on the exposuretime dial serves as an off switch with the M6.
DS: Don't forget they made the screwmounts before the M3, wich had this big advance knob, so they where indeed afraid of advancing to fast with a lever. This was untested teritory.
Also M3SS with DS internals! M3T (SingleStroke/Big Advancer/BuddhaEars/ Super smooth) I have one!
The M3 came out at the same time as the IIIG. My IIIG has a Leicavit rapid winder. A brilliant camera and accessory that makes the IIIG a single stroke.
Do you have any idea why Leica failed to include a self-timer with their Leica M-A and MP? My first thought about my new Leica M-A was, "Ah, an M3 with a warranty!" My M-A is close to an M3 but it's not quite there. It doesn't have a self-timer.
For how many years were they made in Canada ?
Give each other some time to talk. David seemed to be getting pissed off and rightly so.
Ooof. Yes, this.
"Next question"
Video @ 9:30 - "static build-up" - Well due to the 50's era in film cassette construction (felt & popular re-load cassettes etc.), static was the concern & the main reason for the intentional slow-pull of the film emulsion out of the roll of film. - Later due to the competition bringing out Single Stroke models, Leica capitulated to the marketing...
Video @ 10:18 - "you can convert a Double to a Single" - Not easy & NOT recommended unless the ratchet style OEM transport unit is swapped out (Good luck finding the parts). But a tech can remove the 'End-Stop-Pin' which turns the transport into a weak & problematic performer. If a camera is Single winding & you don't hear the minor clicking as the lever goes back to its standoff position, it's likely one of those mod'ed (butchered) units😥
Video @ 44:01 - "M6TTL speed dial direction" Early on this really upset some hardcore & longtime M users. They were used to the speed dial direction of their early 'stuff'...
Video @ 49:34 "there's two companies" - Youxin Ye in Massachusetts ? - Guys, Youxin doesn't perform a C L A to "factory tolerances"❗ - In fact, he's not factory trained, doesn't like difficult repairs/models, turns down most if not all lens repairs, and those who are truly in-the-know, state that he suffers MANY service Redo's; just ask Don at DAG, Sherry Krauter and/or Gus...
Video @ 57:14 - "MP the pinnacle" - I totally agree, the MP model contained the latest internal upgrades, among many others & most significantly was the multicoated RF elements!
Video @ 1:12:17 - "If it ain't broke don't fix it" - True, but as with cars, precision watches, lenses and CAMERAS, it's certainly not prudent to run a bunch of outgassing OLD acidic oil & grease thru
precision & polished surfaces, let alone sit on crystal clear RF elements and coatings. The true 'Wow Factor' comes from a crystal CLEAR viewfinder and its 2nd image. Doubtful that if today someone picks up an unserviced M3 (due to the probable fog/haze laden surfaces), it would provide that "Wow Factor"...
Video @ 1:27:38 - "quietest analog - settled the debate" - It's actually & without a doubt the Leica M3 - Problem is that you likely have an improperly serviced sample (Curtains too tight and brake mis-adjusted). In over 60 years, it's very common to have cameras completely out of adjustment and/or serviced by an incompetent technician... In fact many techs in trying to offset for congealed lubricants, CRANK-UP the curtain tensions rather than servicing them 'right'. This can easily result in a louder/noisy shutter..
what servicing technicians would you recommend for Leica M film cameras? Is Leica in Germany the very best to get the M3/4/5/6's (and lenses) CLA'd just right? or are there USA based ones that are virtually just as good (and in turn cheaper) ?
@@Kevon420 - Germany ? - Well if you want a $3,000 bill for a service that currently runs about $600 total with the top 3 Leica techs in the USA, then go ahead ship it to them. - Sherry from "Golden Touch", Gus from "TLC Camera Repair" or Don from "DAG" - Gus is the only one that replaces the collectable & authentic 'L' wax seal...
I think the "MP3" as you described it was in fact "M6J" --- 40 being produced for each year of M cameras (1600 approx cameras in total)--it looked a bit like the M3 but had metering and a crank rewind. ---and as you say was indeed very nice camera!
I think the color looks different on film, and often more true to life.
You sure about the M-A being brass in the matte black version, interested in one.
It would be helpful to have this episode time stamped.
From personal experience, I highly recommend as film shooter to do the whole process yourself and avoid external labs. External labs don't give you control over the development process, you can't test with different developers, and it IS much more expensive. I do all C-41 and E-6 developments myself, one C-41 development kit costs $40 and lasts me for 20-30 films. Compare this with external lab development cost (cost gets crazy for medium or large format films!). Disadvantage is the time I spent for developing (30-45 minutes) and scanning (about 3 hours with minimal post processing for 35 mm film). But it's my hobby, and I enjoy doing it. Also, an external lab also takes time to get the film developed....I have my results directly after the shooting if needed with my own development. I have my own darkroom, but I admit that this is a time sucker. Lots of try&error, but when I get it right, it is an unbeatable print result compared to any other inkjet print.
Martin's Analog Photo Channel @ Martin’s Analog... Agree 100 percent 😉👍
Thanks your Comments🙏🏻😊
Awesome video :)
My M3 was single (long) stroke when I got it a few years ago. Didn’t know then that all M3s weren’t SS. Sent it off for CLA, even though it was working well, and it came back changed…sometimes SS and sometimes DS, and I never know which it will be. I’m getting used to it and was glad to find your discussion on the M3 SS and DD “feature.” I love my quirky M3.
Wait this can’t be right. Right? Didn’t watch the whole video but did they say something like this exists? Never heard of it before and sounds more like something is damaged inside.
@@HansRutenbrecher Sounds like a sticky gear or lever inside.
I don’t think it’s true that the M6 was the smallest/lightest at the time. It weights more than the 4-2 & P … I’m fairly sure.
Nice & Thanks :) It was very informative :)
That is a BEAUTIFUL M5.
Indeed!
No word about the rangefinder patch flare which is an issue with all M6 cameras? You only mention it in regard to the early M7 models, but the issue is most severe with the M6 cameras. The light meter of the non-TTL M6 version is turned off in "B" mode on the dial.
What do you mean developing and building a dark room doesn´t save you money? Of course it does! Don´t let these people let you hold back! Especially when you process s/w will it definitely save you money!
50 summilux or 35 summilux? 35 is more versatile, but with the same minimum focus distance, the 50 is going to give better closeup for portraits.
Yes the 50 mm is better for close-up ortraits (although 75 mm is even better); 35 mm is better for environmental portrait, street photography and landscape... (90% of my images have with a summicron 35 mm since the mid 1980s).
@@BrunoChalifour Thanks for the input. I'm hoping to get a Leica M-A in the next year or two, and I keep changing my mind! I'll most likely start off with 50mm, then later on add a 28mm and a 90mm. That'll be a very versatile 3 lens kit. The alternative would be 24mm (or 21mm), 35mm and 75mm.
I didn't hear you mention the MP cameras of 1956 and 1957, did you forget them?
why leica mp only has max shutter speed of 1/1000s compared to other m-systems with 1/4000s?
Analog M cameras have a horizontal rubberized cloth focal plane shutter. These type of shutters are limited to 1/1000th. Digital M cameras utilize vertical composite blade shutters, which can accelerate/decelerate quicker. These cameras have 1/4000th max shutter speed. The speed difference is related to materials, as well as the fact that the horizontal shutter has to travel a 50% greater distance (36mm vs 24mm).
Just to help you guys : messsucher is pronounced like making a mess , hard S and Sucher has the main pronunciation on the U : suuucher together : messsssuuucher . Cheers you are great
The shark skin cover on that MP was very poorly applied,
Dev black and white then "scan" with a DSLR (or mirrorless) and macro lens you already have works out pretty cheap and not too time consuming once you've got it up and running.
Time stamps?
Great info, thanks.
Okay one is just getting to a point about a feature and the other one interrupts causing the first guy to forget and go onto another issue and repeat it happens again. Deep breathe and let each other speak. We really are interested
Guys, please publish time-codes!
The M5 needs to be adjusted to take a modern (lithium) battery instead of the original (mercury) one. Otherwise you're stuck with those horrible Wein cell batteries.
Over the time these circuit got old and there is a big chance that with 1.5v battery there is not much difference after all. My cl works fine with 1.5v without any tuning, tested against a sekonic
The 1.35 volt PX-625 mercury oxide battery is still made in Russia & can be ordered from there.
There is a UK made adapter that allows 1.5v batteries. Sold via eBay. They don’t recommend silver oxide though.
The M4 with 50 and 90mm are what I'm saving for.
I have had an M3 for years and just got the MP, and for the life of me I don’t see why people have such a hard time with the shutter speed dial direction. I would argue it’s “correct” in these cameras and NOT in the others. Here’s why. Thumbs. It’s all about the thumbs. Move your THUMBS in the direction opposite the red arrows. When you grasp the aperture with your left hand, your thumb is on top. Move that thumb in the opposite direction of the red arrow to get proper exposure. Shutter speed? Same exact thing. Put your right hand on top of the camera and grasp the shutter speed dial. Where is your thumb? On the back of the wheel. Move that thumb opposite the direction of the red arrows - just like your left hand thumb on the aperture ring. Just think about the thumbs and you’ll be fine.
Double stroke supposedly put less stress on the mechanism same with the film rewind knob straight down vs angled was more mechanically sound keeping with ,Erica's tendency for mechanical perfection
Thank so much!
Hi guys! I'm looking to purchase a used black paint MP with the serial 469xxxx I was wondering if I could have some kind of reference to find out the year of production? Thank you ;)
No the M5 battery is a mercury battery I think, like the CL (first one) and you have to either use short term wein cells, or have the camera modified for modern batteries or some kind of adapter. It's problematic for my CL.
The 1.35 volt PX-625 mercury oxide battery is still made in Russia & can be ordered from there.
Love this video
Thanks for the feedback.
Given that camera in German is “Kamera”?, shouldn’t it be Leika? But I digress. As an owner of a M6TTL and M7, I have always read that the M3 is unique and that has piqued my interest. Is it really that unique and interesting given what I already own?
The other theory re the M3 was it was named to distinguish it from the Barnack three model which was concurrent up to `58` I think. Thus you could buy the Rangefinder three or you could buy the Barnack 3. When the Barnacks were discontinued they filled in the gaps as it were and brought out the M1 and the M2
Leica M-A gang!
Cool and informative video.
One point: M6s are Magnesium alloy not Aluminum.
BTW.. I have an M6 classic and the shutter speed dial is easy to turn with one finger. The direction is fine too, you just have to get used to it like any camera.
Josh has to speak slowly because is difficult to understand . Good job fellows. All the best!
I wouldn't disregard the Leica III series cameras for actual usage. I am using the M3 and IIIc in parallel. IMO it makes sense to get a low cost Leica III series cameras (no collector model of course) and have it CLAed. With both you are still far below the price of a used M3, and the III series cameras are the smallest in size. Next advantage of a Leica III series camera: much cheaper LTM lenses available than M-mount lenses especially from third-party brands. You can get a IIIc, CLA, Canon 35/2.8 LTM, and Leica 50/2 Summarit for less than $1200. Try to do this with M gear.....and the IIIc rangefinder is great, too.
yes, bang for your buck a IIIfBD is cost efficient if you use flash or the most common screw mount Leicas the IIIa or postwar IIIc.
The IIIG has the best range finder focussing patch. My favourite III series and easiest to focus
Obviously some pretentious hipsters who never shot a M5 in their life, otherwise they wouldn’t call the M6’s meter more usable. What’s that even supposed to mean? You could only not use a very small selection of mostly specialized wide angle glass on the M5. And sure the M5’s meter had the arm mechanism which can break, but in exchange the M5 is an indestructible brass tank instead of the zinc (not aluminum) used on the M6. But let’s focus on the light meter. The M6 and all the other Ms with a meter have a center weighted meter which is known for being prone to get convoluted by backlight and specular highlights. The M5 has a spot meter which’s incredibly precise and lets you pic out which part of the exactly you want to expose for.
You’re forgetting the collapsible lenses, which are far more popular than the special wide angles. Leica made quite a few collapsible lenses before they made the M5, and many people use them, myself included. The M5’s meter arm will hit collapsed lenses. Without question, the M6 has a more usable and versatile meter, no questions asked.
@@johnclerefilms You can tape the collapsible lenses so they won’t go in too far into the body, as described in the M5 manual making them work fine with the M5. I’ve been having to use an M6 since august now and I really miss my M5. I don’t understand your point on the M5s meter. It’s more precise and won’t be fooled by stray light light the M6. I’ve been resorting to an external meter while shooting with the M6 simply because I can’t choose where I want my middle grey to land precisely with the M6. The M5s meter has never let me down.
The 1.35 volt PX-625 mercury oxide battery is still made in Russia & can be ordered from there.
@@VariTimo This is yet another example of the frustrating way people talk about Leicas. The M5 and the M6 can both be perfectly good cameras, it’s not a competition. If you put the right lenses on it and adapt modern batteries to it, the M5 is a fine camera. I even happen to like the needle-style meter. But there are countless M6 users, myself included, who’d say your assessment of the M6’s meter is ludicrous. It has an excellent and accurate meter and uses the same center-weighted metering featured in dozens of other top-tier professional cameras of its era, notably the Nikon F-series. In all my years of shooting with my M6, I have quite literally never once had the meter misread a scene. It’s an excellent meter.
No one here is saying the M5 is a bad camera. You like yours, and that’s fine. It’s not a competition. If you like the M5, that’s all that matters. But what was said in the video is accurate, the M5’s meter is less useful. Frankly, if you have to modify certain lenses so you can use them on the camera, if you just simply can’t use some others, and if it takes weird batteries that you can’t go buy at your local store, then yes, inarguably, it is a less useful meter. But if it works for you, that’s all that matters. It’s OK for two things to be good at once. The M5 and the M6 can coexist peacefully.
"Mess-Sucher" means "measuring seeker", if you translate it directly. So "range finder" is just a delivering the result "find", while the original german word is still seraching for it...😉
Leica's are known for their heft. That heft or weight gives people the false impression that they're also "rugged." During loading I accidentally dropped my M-A about 4" onto a hard, wood surface. Now, I'm wondering if I need to send my M-A back to the factory to have the rangefinder adjusted. Adding to that question is the fact that I have the f/0.95 50mm Noctilux lens, a lens notoriously difficult to focus 'wide open.' Does my rangefinder need factory readjustment and/or am I physically unable to focus my Noctilux lens wide open? This gear is expensive. I shouldn't have to ask!
Excellent video, very informative. Josh needs to reduce his adderall dosage... Thank you.
David reminds me so much of Pippin from LOTR
So if the M1 didn't have a rangefinder but M stands for rangefinder in German.... 🤔🤔🤔
My m6 and m3 where daily shooters. my 1a, with a serial number in the 40,000s is precious. M3, and early M6. Leica is Optics. So much on the bodies, so little on the optics, resolution charts, chromatic aberations, centering of optics, ya project a resolution chart through a taking lens and look for wobble on a rotating mount.. Wetzlar factory,.. M6 release, priceless. these guys treat leica as jewelery. I push their optics.. Kodachrome 25 pro,shot on leitz, projected on a pradovit , Resolution, tonal range, definition in highlights and deep shadows.
If i want jewelery i buy diamonds and gold
We do love the M cameras for their iconic design, amazing shooting feel and well-crafted mechanics. But we are also right there with you on the lenses. In fact, we dedicated four episodes just to M lenses:
Wide-angle M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/6sAk3CeuAPc/v-deo.html
Telephoto M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/dPqgt7meCd4/v-deo.html
35mm M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/F2xWJhrIFrA/v-deo.html
50mm M lenses: ua-cam.com/video/ZDFaVRc_7_I/v-deo.html
@@RedDotForum umm the 15. Wasn't leitz. Was zeiss, mid 70s sumicrons, the 35 was magig on tri x. Montrealer Midland was not far. EL can . Magical. Have a pair of 7 50 marine binoculars. Paid 750 Canadian in 77 . In the 80s I was buying sleves for the leica singer projector and 90mm 2.5 lenses 100 at a time. Machine the back of the lens and sold over 300 of em to Kodak slide projector owners. Still use my pradovit 1500.. and thanks my m6 says wetzlar.
But the m5 is better than the rot m6 and plastic m4-p
"plastic m4-p" - Gesh - - - Talk about an exaggeration...
You are looking at over £30.000 worth of LEICA Range Finders cameras on the table
Love my m3
Umm whanna scan my kodachrome 25 profesional, bring your high res projector, i have my pradovit lets go big.. Ohh leica school at wetzlar in the early 80s, m4 to m6 transition.. use those cameras . um kodak so 5015. made technical pan look like trix. was about 10 asa, but the resolution.. Ohh Kodachrome 25 pro in 35 was about 30 megapixel.. As paul simon said , Kodachrome
And M1? The one without rangefinder..
LOL so true about the darkroom. One day I will build one because I love the process. The esthetic comment on one of your episodes was the best statement about film. Most are a whole different league. Medium format or 4x5 you just burn a contact sheet and you are GTG.
Isn't it time Leica introduce entry level D body. Panasonic type M4/3 Half Frame Full Frame. M4 M6TTL M3 CL Film owner.
Why don't these guys take off their glasses and use the right screw-in dioptre corrector? It is not good for your glasses to press them against the viewfinder - the lenses get scratched, especially plastic ones. But you need to keep your glasses case with you to put them in.
I got a hardly used second hand MP about 15 years ago for a modest price. I had no idea it was worth such a lot. Now I am scared to take it out of its case. There is a lot to be said for a clean-ish M2.
Old lenses make nice pictures with digital cameras. The old 50mm Elmar with 15 diaphragm blades has a lot going for it. They seem to have got expensive though. They were about £100 in 2005.
Maybe they use the diopter correction on their own cameras. It wouldn't be practical to have them for the dozens of camera they are showing in this video.
Great video as always! But your German is atrocious 😅 I never thought someone could butcher the word Messsucher so badly ... it is indeed a hard language. Love you!
M-A
umm focusing is more forgiving on anlagog than digital WTF leica m has a great presure plate.. its the sensors and the digital algorythims.. Kodachrome and Cibachrome dont lie.. Age very well
I have a Leica M-A. Yesterday I attempted to load the M-A with a 36-exposure roll of Kodak Portra 160. That should have been a simple, practically foolproof procedure, but it wasn't. As I carefully began to wind the film from -2 to +1 on the 'counter' dial I felt a snag in the film winding. "WHAT could have caused that?" I asked myself. Well, what caused the snag was a very slight tear along the "top" edge of the film. This slight tear had caught on the internals of the M-A. Only after removing the M-A's bottom plate and carefully removing the metal film canister could I see the slight tear in the film. I wish I were certain that this film tear had occurred at the Kodak factory. but the film came from my local camera store not in a sealed Kodak box but in the familiar, refrigerator-cold, plastic container. Anyone at the camera store could have opened that plastic container before it was sold to me. Who's responsible for the film tear?
double stroke... some photographers were still using the older film base... also, Leicas were also used in scientific and medical situations of high oxygen concentration and a spark could have been critical...my M2 was probably the single most influential camera I have ever purchased. The M5 with the larger shutter dial...clever idea... but in practice, each shot I took could accidentally change the shutter speed setting. This happened often and I had to continually reset the shutter speed. The M10P and 10M have put me back to a similar level of comfort as the M2 and enjoyment of having and using a rangefinder cameras.