Ikon ZM vs. Leica M3 with 90mm Lens

[bwcolor]

Does anyone have real life experience with these two cameras. I'm wondering if I buy myself much in purchasing an M3 for my Leica APO 90mm Asph, which I like to shoot wide open in questionable light? The Ikon has a really bright viewfinder, but the magnification is a bit wanting. Just looking for some feedback prior to buying..or not.. an M3. On second thought, is there a magnifier that fits and would this provide a good solution. I've heard some negative comments on the use of magnifiers with the Leica M's. Thanks.

 

[x-ray]

You will have no problem with either camera provided the RF in the M3 is bright and contrasty. I've owned a number of M3's, and other M's and also have a ZM. Currentl I have an MP with a .72x and one with a .85x and the ZM. For general shooting I like the .85x vs the .72x but overall like the ZM RF / VF the best. I have no problems focusing my 90 apo asph, 75 summilux or other lenses wide open at close distance on any of the bodies. Accurate focus is more a function of your ability to hand hold without wavering and changing distance from your subject. At close distance wide open DOF is paper thin and the slightest bit of instability and wavering will yield unacceptable results. You must be very steady if hand holding.

 

[bwcolor]

I'm getting on a bit in age and my eyesight isn't what it use to be. This is why I'm thinking of the magnification. I will say that without doubt, camera instability in these situations present a major challenge and one that I also need to work on. All good points.

I wear glasses and on the opposite end (28mm), I can't see the frame lines without really moving my point of view in the Ikon viewfinder. I don't want to buy an infinite number of camera bodies to address all of these concerns, so it just might be that a magnifier provides a quick fix for the 90mm in tough conditions. I've got a 21mm/Ikon kit with viewfinder coming, so it may be that I don't use my 28mm much. 21mm and 35 mm just might do and that would take care of the wide end. I can manage the 35mm with the Ikon and glasses.

 

[gilpen123]

I have the M3 for the 50 & 90 nothing can beat it IMO for those FLs. I am looking at the 0.85 mag, wonder if it is equal to M3 with the 90.

 

[Sonnar Brian]

The M3 finer is magnificent, if it is in good order. Mine are, after a professional CLA. You will not have any problems with a 90mm lens on it.

 

[payasam]

Do you want a full 90mm frame or just corner marks?

 

[bwcolor]

I would prefer a full frame. I think that I'm going to start with an eyepiece magnifier. Most situations are just fine with the Ikon viewfinder, but about the time that I pull out my monopod and 90mm will probably call for screwing in the viewfinder magnifier. This is my least expensive option. My wife won't notice the arrival of a magnifier, but she will object to another 35mm body. So, I've had second thoughts on that one. I'll report back as to how things went.

 

[Ronald M]

M3 and 90 mm is a match made in heaven. Solid line to mark off the view.

Later ones have partial sides and no corners or just corners. M3 remains king of the hill. You will pay for a good one and some maintenance.

 

[jmkelly]

The M3 is a fabulous piece of work and yes, a dream with a 90mm lens. But if you have an Ikon already and don't want the M3 just to have an M3, I can't understand shellling out for a good one when the Ikon is already so very good with the 90mm as well. The Ikon has a wider physical baselength and all the modern amenities. And if you really need it, a magnifier from Japan Exposures is just $100 plus shipping - WAY cheaper than the M3. Keep your wife happy.

 

[bwcolor]

In Praise of Magnifiers

In Praise of Magnifiers

I decided to keep one ZI equipped with a magnifier and only use my 90mm and 21mm lenses on this body. The 90mm frame is now the cat's meow with glasses. I can see the full frame and just a bit beyond and all is clear and bright. The 21mm is even more interesting. I have such great eye relief with the magnifier on that I can quickly focus from an inch or so from the viewfinder. This allows a quick look and then shoot through the external viewfinder.