Considering getting a second-hand M8.2

M

mrmarquez

MrMarquez
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May 11, 2010
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Hey peeps,

I've been thinking about getting one of these. I do have an RD1, and I love it, don't think I'll be selling that anytime soon, but I do feel I could do with a larger raw picture.

Any suggestions on where could I find one, price tag and so on?


Cheers
 
These seem to be quite rare. I picked one up recently in the UK, but had to wait some time for one to turn up for sale. As to price I would expect to pay in the region of £2,500 for a top example with low shutter count, dropping to around £2,100 for a reasonable example. Europe prices may vary - one sold recently on the Leica forum for 2,250 Euros with 6000 clicks.You could drop an email to Red Dot cameras or The Clasic Camera (both in London) and register your interest.
 
I'm not sure it's a step up in IQ...can anyone chime in here? I've heard mixed reports on the high-iso quality of the M8 vs. the R-D1. And you'll need to use filters, right, or did the 8.2 fix that? Lastly...8mp vs. 6mp is not a lot bigger of a file.
 
Especially as the M8 is 10 Mb... and equivalent to 12 bits as opposed to 8.
Yes, it is a considerable step up. Noise is not a real issue since the advent of LR3 - if you expose correctly and have a modicum of postprocessing skill.
The IR sensitivity of the RD1 and M8 don't differ that much. I would shoot both cameras with an 486 filter all the time.
 
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The lack of an AA filter on the M8/M8.2 also needs to be taken into account regarding Epson file comparisons.

Jeff
 
Regarding the OP's question about availability, my shopping experience goes back to a little over a year ago when I purchased a second M8.2, mint used. I only shopped reputable Leica dealers, and it's interesting that none of the dealers that routinely listed multiple M8s (stock and upgraded) or M8.2s at that time show any current inventory.

I prefer using a dealer rather than private sale in case issues arise. I understand many folks get good buys privately, but not the route for me. If you agree, then I think it's just a matter of calling around and being persistent about the task. That's what landed me a great deal; now it just seems that more effort is needed, and likely more time.

FWIW, I paid $3400 US for a mint chrome M8.2 that had just come back from Leica NJ to the dealer after a full service. I considered this a great deal at the time, especially when the rep said it was the cleanest one he'd seen in some time, but I haven't kept track of market rates. I know, though, that there were some dealers listing equivalent cameras at the time for near $4000. Dealer pricing practices are all over the map, so it's really worth checking lots of places. Many reputable dealers do business internationally.

Jeff
 
I wouldn't limit yourself to the M8.2. Make sure you want to pay the extra cash for what I see to be small upgrades in the M8.2 from the M8. Of course, our valuation of such varies.
 
Jubb Jubb said:
why the 8.2 over the 8?..
Click to expand...

I chose the M8.2 for several reasons, but others of course differ. Different strokes.

First, as a general principle, I tend to avoid first generation products that incorporate new technologies, preferring to wait for the second iteration, which often proves more reliable. My 2 M8.2s have remained problem free, and I haven't heard of many contrary experiences from others, unlike early adopters of the M8 or M9. I also follow this approach for cars, appliances and other goods, not just cameras.

Some of the differences between the M8 and M8.2 speak to these reliability issues. The improved shutter is one example, and the removal of 1/8000 shutter speed (as in the M9) provides more conservative action. Of course if the higher speed is essential for one's work, that's a different consideration. For me, it's unnecessary.

Second, the sapphire screen is more robust. Of course one can choose to use an inexpensive screen cover, but I prefer that the camera itself, without adornments, be more structurally sound.

The more significant issue for me is the improved frame lines, at least for distances I shoot. Having owned various film Ms for several decades, the 2m lines of the M8.2 are the best I've ever used. I believe Leica erred by not incorporating them into the M9.

Others may argue about the differences in black paint (M8.2) or black chrome (M8). I don't feel strongly either way. Both my chrome and black M8.2s still look great despite regular use. (I do, however, like the black dot that comes stock on the black M8.2.:)) I also prefer the grippier vulcanite covering on the M8.2.

One could argue that pics are unaffected by these issues (although frame lines and shutter speed may come into play for some). But, I think the M8.2 is just a better sorted camera, and I also think that it will retain a premium value over M8s, so that if I ever sell, I'm likely to get the premium back. There will always be fewer M8.2s than either M8s or M9s.

Jeff
 
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Thanks for the replies. Pretty helpful.

Unfortunately I can't find any reliable dealers that offer second hand M's here in Amsterdam. All in all, it's quite a chunk of money for me and it's something I'd like to see and hold and test and double check before paying.

I believe I have to do a bit more of field research and just try to come across one of the M8 or M8.2 in good state for a reasonable price.
 
mrmarquez said:
Unfortunately I can't find any reliable dealers that offer second hand M's here in Amsterdam.
Click to expand...

No need to restrict yourself to Amsterdam. There are reliable Leica dealers in many countries, many of which do a robust business internationally, and also warranty and stand by their products.

If you buy and later decide the camera is not for you, the market has remained strong enough that you are unlikely to lose much, if anything, monetarily. I could actually make money if I were to sell the mint M8.2 I bought last year...but I won't dare.

Jeff
 
I would not hesitate to pick up a M8.2 camera. I loved the one I had but sold it when I picked up a M9.

I purchased mine as a used demo from a Leica Dealer. Today I would check Leica Dealers and would not hesitate to purchased used from members of RFF or GetDPI with positive feedback regarding past items sold. Prices still appear to hover between $3000.00 to $3500.00 USD for a used M8.2 camera in ads that I have seen over the past few months.

Good luck with your decision and search.
 
I picked up an M8.2 (black paint with brassing) with 3 batteries, check-up by Leica NJ, box and all for 3K shipped/paypaled from an RFF member, and I don't regret the decision at all. It's been working flawlessly, and I am very happy with the results I'm getting. I'm using the camera as b/w only shooter, and I don't care or use IR cut filter or 6-bit coding.

I'd get one around 3K mark from RFF community if possible.
 
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