First steps in Leica land.

[fidget]

Although I have never experienced a Leica, I love handling and using good quality kit and have recently caught myself checking the used prices of M3's. So, it seems that I am actively considering buying one, must be the inevitable final destination of GAS, so it's natural?
If I am thinking of one as a user, I may as well determine which model/features are the most desirable. Fee-bay auction final sales indicate that maybe I could snag a body for around £350-£450. Of course, it needn't be an M3, if an other model offers a good buy, so what would you suggest? Is it all down to condition?

Dave.........

 

[Chris101]

Condition, and the viewfinder magnigfication. And rewind know if that's an issue to you. I got a nicely kept m4p for a good price btw.

 

[Xmas]

M3 ok if you only use 50mm or longer, the 1:1 finder is real convenient, if you predominatly use 35mm you need to think about one of the others.

If you want a meter you need one of the new fangled M5 or later.

Noel

 

[richard_l]

...Of course, it needn't be an M3, if an other model offers a good buy, so what would you suggest? Is it all down to condition?

Don't rule out the M2. It's the favorite M for many people. 😉

Richard

 

[fidget]

Hmm, a bit to think about. I would be making good use of my LTM CV 35mm and Nokton. So perhaps I shouldn't restrict myself to an M3?
I should go and examine a few of these at a dealers, only......that's particularly dangerous, could be OK if I leave my credit card behind....
Thanks, Dave...

 

[sepiareverb]

Handling and actually seeing through the VF is a big plus if you've not done so before. Unfortunately, seeing through the VF made me want one more.

 

[markinlondon]

You'll want an M2 for that 35mm. Ffordes are still selling them for £399, warrantied, possibly safer than ebay.

 

[fidget]

So an M2 is not necessarily older than an M3?
It's got selectable VF for 35mm/50mm etc...?

Sorry, I should go away and learn a little more before i ask here......

 

[Xmas]

Yes overlapped for years
35, 50, & 90
Try camera quests site tells you more than you need

Noel

 

[richard_l]

Production of the M3 started in 1954, the M2 in 1957, the M1 in 1959.

Richard

 

[BillBingham2]

Dave,

There are so many differences between Ms, take a day trip down to London and spend some time handling them. I would look at the M3, M2, M4, M5, M4-P, M6c (Classic). There are folks who love the M4-2, but I think the M4-P is a bit better built. The M6 TTL is fine, but the shutter speed turns a different direction from the older Ms, but the same as the M7 (electronic shutter with aperture preferred AE). I’m not a big M7 fan, some people love them. To me, I like to control everything and think about what I am doing a bit more. The M7 is every bit an M as a M6, take a look if AE floats your boat.

Take a look at http://www.cameraquest.com/classics.htm our head bartender has a great deal of info on Leica cameras, well thought through and well presented. Beware the Nikon rangefinders, they are IMHO equally addicting.

Best thing you can do is look, feel and then find a good buy. Often you can find GREAT buys here in the classifieds. Many of us sell unused stuff for less here than we would on EvilBay.

B2 (;->

 

[photo4ls]

Leica Land

Leica Land

As much as I would like to own an M lecia, my first thought would
be to check this forum(RFF) before going to eeebay. I have seen a
lot of very good deals here and I think I would feel a lot more
comfortable w/my purchase.😉







Fed 2
Zorki 5
Nikon FM-2
Nikon FM3A

 

[35mmdelux]

The two best deals in Leicadom are the M4-P (without meter) and the M6 Classic .72 (with meter). These generally have less mileage than M3, M2, etc. Less mileage means less wear and tear.

 

[KM-25]

The M6 TTL is fine, but the shutter speed turns a different direction from the older Ms

I have an M3, M6TTL and MP-3. I use my rigs regularly, I am finding in practice that it's just not that hard to cope with, honestly.

To the O.P:

Get your self a clean but user M3 and a period 50 Summicron and experience the shutter release and brilliant viewfinder in that combo. There is no meter detent so the shutter goes at the first touch...simply marvelous!

 

[TheHub]

I want a IIIc but my wife said "not a chance" 🙁