Leica O

[FPjohn]

The lens is wonderful- I would get one in M mount in a heartbeat. The camera is quirky to say the least, and can be a real test of patience when you realize you've shot three frames without capping the lens before winding on. My first impression was that I couldn't believe anybody thought this was better than sheet film! But it is very pocketable, and I pull it out every now and again for a roll or two. I like shooting ortho film with mine- to fully steep in the experience of 1920's 35mm shooting.

O-Serie on Adox Ortho

Excellent!

yours
FPJ

 

[Dralowid]

FPJ,

Sorry I am creating a little diversion here! I am referring to the orignal Anastigmat from 192something. All part of trying to steer the discussion towards Leica I etc of which I am a great fan.

I am sure that the new Anastigmat is very much more refined. I have no idea as to whether it is the same formula as the original.

To confuse the issue, I have started using an uncoated early Tessar (f3.5) on my Contax I. I am not yet quite brave enough to say that I prefer it to a contemporary Elmar but I am getting closer........

I use the Elmar M a lot. It is my favourite and in a completely different ballpark from these original Leitz and Zeiss offerings.

Michael

 

[FPjohn]

Hello Michael:

No confusion. The ltm Anastigmat image was a great contribution.

yours
FPJ

 

[easyrider]

I may be biased (I am seriously baised) but I'd suggest getting a Leica I or even a Standard. Small and simple.

'Normal' ones are much cheaper than an 'O' even allowing for a complete CLA. None of that capping business and an absolute delight to use.

Michael

I totally agree. Why would ANYONE get a replica with that gaudy photo of Uncle Oscar on the back when you can get the real thing?

It's a bit like a replica kit car. But to each his own.

 

[CameraQuest]

The lens has full modern coatings as well, and is slightly taller than the original, so a modern film cassette will fit.

Rolf Crema (one of the people behind the re-issue) has said: "It is a newly computed lens, based on the old four-element design. As far as optical performance is concerned the new lens corresponds to today's Leica standard."


Interestingly, the strap rollers and shutter curtain drums are exactly the same as used on the MP/M7.

Its a tragedy that many decision makers at Leica just don't understand what Leica is about. In this instance tradition and appreciation of 35mm history. To have gone so far as to make such a beautiful replica camera, and screw is up with a modern lens and out of place Barnack plate is an incredibly sad example of Leica screwing up a wonderful idea.

If the reissue had been an exact copy of the original lens, without the horrible Oskar pic on the back, it would honored Leica, both past and present.


Stephen

 

[FrozenInTime]

I'm quite happy with the first version - the one with the built in film type holder ;-)

 

[sepiareverb]

To have gone so far as to make such a beautiful replica camera, and screw is up with a modern lens and out of place Barnack plate is an incredibly sad example of Leica screwing up a wonderful idea.

Well, my version (fold-up viewfinder as directly above) has no "Head of Barnack" upon it, and the lens is quite simply stunning. I suppose I'd like a "real retro" version too, but to have my cake and eat it too is pretty darn fine by me.

My copy is well on the road to having the real vintage look too, paint scratched and brassed quite a bit.

 

[Vics]

The Kettle...

The Kettle...

The lens is wonderful- I would get one in M mount in a heartbeat. The camera is quirky to say the least, and can be a real test of patience when you realize you've shot three frames without capping the lens before winding on. My first impression was that I couldn't believe anybody thought this was better than sheet film! But it is very pocketable, and I pull it out every now and again for a roll or two. I like shooting ortho film with mine- to fully steep in the experience of 1920's 35mm shooting.

O-Serie on Adox Ortho

The real classic here is the Weber Kettle!
VS