Advice on an M5

[ray*j*gun]

I have been reading the classifieds for M5's for a LONG time (I know what a slippery slope that is!) and would like some counsel on the differences, if any between the 2 lug and 3 lug models. Like Barnack's, I know the M5 following is an avid one so I'm sure there are some expert hands on opinions amoungst us.

Thank you in advance for your input!

 

[MCTuomey]

Ray, when I had my 2-lug I used a custom Gordy strap worn across my chest with the camera at my left side. Very nice to swing up to shoot starting with my left hand, without any strappage on the right/shutter side in the way. Ergonomically as good as it gets, imho.

 

[ray*j*gun]

Thanks Mike.....are there any functional or quality differences in the evolution of the M5? I seem to remember reading that there were some mechanical differences between the 2 models.

 

[roundg]

Thanks Mike.....are there any functional or quality differences in the evolution of the M5? I seem to remember reading that there were some mechanical differences between the 2 models.

The speed dial of the earliest batch of M5 doesn't have the click stop feel between speeds. But most of them have been modified/upgrade by factory later.

someone says that SM after 135XXX or 134XXX are the most mature batch. I have one black and one chrome one, all the latest three lug version. They are really great cameras.

 

[ray*j*gun]

Thanks Robin, I have been considering an M5 for some time I guess I just to be sure I'm on the right side of the odds.

 

[MCTuomey]

Thanks Mike.....are there any functional or quality differences in the evolution of the M5? I seem to remember reading that there were some mechanical differences between the 2 models.

ray, i don't know. just not that familiar. the shutter dial, the overall handling, and the fool-proof loading were delightful. sold mine foolishly last year to afford a lens i ended up not keeping. :bang:

 

[tonys]

I think the two lug version is probably easier to handle and more comfortable because of the absence of the third lug on the side. Then it is a question of how you want to carry the camera. Do you want to carry it in the normal way, then go for 3 lug. If you are happy for the camera to hang over your shoulder then a 2 lug would suffice.

If you are going to purchase an M5, whether it be 2 lug or 3 lug ( and you can always have a 3rd lug added on by Sherry or Don) then go for one with serial no above 134....

According to repair experts those below this number may have problematic main rollers. If this is to be repaired it is a 9 hour job. Therefore stay away from models below 134....

 

[DNG]

Thanks Mike.....are there any functional or quality differences in the evolution of the M5? I seem to remember reading that there were some mechanical differences between the 2 models.

The speed dial of the earliest batch of M5 doesn't have the click stop feel between speeds. But most of them have been modified/upgrade by factory later.

someone says that SM after 135XXX or 134XXX are the most mature batch. I have one black and one chrome one, all the latest three lug version. They are really great cameras.

Also, you can set the speeds at any place between set numbers (Except 30,X,60) and the shutter will be somewhat in between the two.. Useful with slide film.

Love Mine. with a VF upgrade to include 28/90, 35/135, 50/75.

 

[ray*j*gun]

Thanks Tony Mike and DNG.......carrying is not an issue re: 2 or 3 lugs. I NEED to avoid costly repairs so the counsel around the later models is very much appreciated.

Thanks again!!

 

[rxmd]

Well the later models are recommended as with any camera, but you can't base the probability of repairs just on the serial number. A recent CLA might, in effect, be worth more than a high serial number.

It's also a question how much you want to spend. The 3-lug versions seem to be more expensive.

I have a 135xx black 2-lug version. I think I spent +/- $700 on it. Most of the time I'm using it I end up carrying it vertically under the arm on a continuous strap, so the third lug would only be a distraction. It's a remarkable camera. after some heavy use I handed it in for a CLA and some new viewfinder parts last fall, put a Griptac cover on it, it really makes a difference in terms of handling. It's close to perfect as a user rangefinder.

 

[richardl]

Hi,

Have a read here about M5 and CLA issues:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leica_M5

The biggest hurdle is that any 40 year old camara will need expert work, if it has not been regularly expertly maintained. I recommend budgeting USD 3-400 for proper servicing, no matter how new the camera appears or what serial number it has. On the other hand the M5's practically have no expiry date, no planned number of actuations. They can be maintained as they left the factory indefinitely. My M5's will probably outlive me.

Second recommendation, do not buy a camera you cannot return, and have it sent directly to your repair person. A lot of M5's have significant mechanical problems and are not financially worth fixing. Those are only worth having if they are passed on for free, and the purchase price is the repair costs involved.

Because of her extensive experience with M5s, Sherry Kräuter is the person of choice for service.

There is a also a detailed historical review of the M5 here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/richardlehun/sets/72157623601924003/

 

[sepiareverb]

My M5 needed a fair bit of work to bring it back, but it is a wonderful camera now. I'd agree on getting a CLA asap, made the world of difference in how much I like the camera.

Sherry has told me she much prefers the later models for the incremental improvements made during the different series.