I think it's time to go Leica M!

[richardhkirkando]

Oh yes, those £2k lenses do look rather tasty! This is my reasoning behind Russian glass with an LTM adapter. Does anyone do this?

I loved the Jupiter-8 on my Contax, so I bought a LTM version...I may have lucked out, but mine appears to focus fine. Maybe its off, but the results are good, so I don't worry about it. Works well enough that I haven't felt the need to upgrade, though I do have my eyes on a pre-ASPH Summilux...

 

[Krosya]

Oh ok, that's strange. I thought they were just leica knock-offs? (at least the ltm ones)

A quick google reveals people using Jupiter lenses on their M6's, is there still hope in the idea? 🙂

I have had and still have a couple of russian lenses that work just fine on Leica, Bessa, RD1S, etc. None of my 50mm russian lenses had to be adjusted. My Jupiter 9 (85/2) lens had to be adjusted but for a different reason.
Industar 22 - 50/3.5 lens:
On RD1S

Jupiter-9:
on RD1s

On Bessa R3M

As you can see - works just fine

 

[Krosya]

Oh - and as far as Leicas go - sure get one. Keep in mind that you will most likely have to CLA is - means more money plus bottom loading is not for everyone. I have used several Leicas and still do have one, but in many ways I prefer Bessas and Konicas RF. Plus you dont have to worry about your curtain having holes in it - Bessas and Konicas have metal shutters. I'd advise a Bessa R3A/M - great cameras in my experience. Or even Bessa R2.

 

[mojobebop]

get the leica

get the leica

i'd get a user m2, or mp4.
you can get a voightlander lens.,

 

[thegman]

I was going to enter this thread to recommend a Bessa, but it sounds like you've thought about this a bit, and assuming you're happy not having a built-in meter etc, then an M4-P will likely suit you.

Definitely try to get another lens as quick as you can though, if you don't mind old and battered, you can get a Summicron for not crazy amounts, or get a newish Color Skopar.

 

[Nigel Meaby]

How about a Leica CL and 40 summicron? Great first Leica kit for under £500. One currently listed on http://www.apertureuk.com/leica.html

 

[gilpen123]

An M3 and a Canon 50 1.8 range from $700-900 user w/o VC meter

 

[shadowfox]

The body and lens both for under $800.
The meter is $40 but I don't actually use it, I just thought it looks cool in this picture.
The strap is vintage and quite pricey at (I think) 50 cents at the camera show bits-and-pieces bin.

Patience is very useful when you're strapped on budget.

 

[Haigh]

I use and M4-P with 35mm lens and it is terrific.

 

[ChrisCummins]

Thanks for all the input. I did have a look at CL, but it seems not to have the same ease of repair due to some components being difficult to source, and it isn't certainly isn't an 'M'. Same goes for the Bessa's. Lovely cameras I'm sure, but I'm after something mechanical, built like a brick, basically a FED but with a decent viewfinder, winding knob and proper quality construction. 🙂

Interesting to hear about people's experiences with the Russian glass. I guess it'd be something to try, since I already have the glass to hand.

On another note, knowing nothing about leica lenses (beyond their supposed quality), can anyone tell me anything about these two lenses I found referred to in a sales listing, plus what they are worth? 'Earnst Leitz Wetslar Summicron 5cm f1.2 collapsable' 'Summarron 3.5cm f1.3 Lens'

Best regards
Chris

 

[ChrisCummins]

Yes that's what confused me, the incorrect f numbers were copied verbatim from the ad I saw. I guess they meant 1:2 and 1:3(.5).

Regards

 

[Chris101]

Not only did you pay less Will, but yours is better looking than mine!

Your meter looks like some sort of radar device. What kind is it?

The body and lens both for under $800.
The meter is $40 but I don't actually use it, I just thought it looks cool in this picture.
The strap is vintage and quite pricey at (I think) 50 cents at the camera show bits-and-pieces bin.

Patience is very useful when you're strapped on budget.

 

[shadowfox]

Not only did you pay less Will, but yours is better looking than mine!

Your meter looks like some sort of radar device. What kind is it?

Chris, but mine doesn't have the "stealth" mode like yours 🙂
The meter is from Petri.
I have a few people asking about this, so I'll do a write up about it sometime in my photo-journal.

 

[jamais]

An M4-P with a Jupiter-8 attached would look similar to this:

M4-P by camerafred, on Flickr
I used to use a Zorki 3-S which then was being replaced by this M4-P.

 

[ChrisCummins]

That's the sort of combo I'm on about. 🙂 Lovely looking cam, how did you find the upgrade from the Zorki?

Admittedly, now that the idea of upgrading to a Leica is planted in my head, all the negative characteristics of the FED are magnified ten fold haha

 

[jamais]

That's the sort of combo I'm on about. 🙂 Lovely looking cam, how did you find the upgrade from the Zorki?

Thank you. The Zorki was an interesting experience. This Leica I like so much that I will keep it forever. Do you see the ding near the frame counter? My little daughter did the drop test one week after the purchase - from approximately 90cm height onto the tiled kitchen floor. (I remember the sound as if it happend yesterday;-) ). I am pretty sure the Zorki had not survived it whereas the M4-P just got kind of more - well - mature? Or how would you best describe some beautiful brassing?

 

[Vics]

If you're really sure, then get the Leica you really want now, rather than constantly spending your money on cameras that are less than the one you really want. THAT's the way to waste money! The Leica M you buy today will still be with you when you are my age (65). I went through five different camera systems, always wanting a Leica. When my kids gave me an M3 for my 60th birthday, I thought, Why did I "wait?" Think of all the film I could have bought with all that money? Or other Leica gear? If what you want is a Leica M, Nothing else will give you the confidence you need. I'd start with an M2 and a Summaron 35mm F3.5 and add as you go.

 

[SimonSawSunlight]

I'd start with an M2 and a Summaron 35mm F3.5 and add as you go.

agreed. exactly the kit I have sitting right next to me. well beaten-up, loaded with neopan 1600, equipped with a vented lenshood, Tom A. rff mini-softrelease, additional rewind crank and working like a CHARM. awesome combination, not just for newcomers!

 

[GSNfan]

My first M Leica was a M4-P. It was all good except the VF flare that completely spoiled it for me.

If you're planning on going the Leica M route then don't short-change yourself, buy a M6 at least and a Leica lens preferably. There are no half measures if you want to be a Leica shooter.

 

[ChrisCummins]

If you're really sure, then get the Leica you really want now, rather than constantly spending your money on cameras that are less than the one you really want. THAT's the way to waste money!

I agree entirely - luckily that's something I learnt from a very early age.

There's a man I've been talking to who is looking to sell his M2 with a 50 summicron and a 35 summaron, hence why I was asking about those two lenses. It really looks like a superb set and is essentially everything that is on my 'wish list' (it also comes with meter, bag, case etc), all in tip-top condition. How much do you think is a sensible offer for this lot? I think if I can convince him to hold it back for me while I scrabble together the money, it would save me £££ on 'upgrades' from lower quality gear which is what I'd otherwise be doing.

Regards
Chris