M240 weather protection

[Ricoh]

The ads for the M240 states: 'Use in any weather, rubber seals protect the cameras from splashes, moisture, dust and uncooperative weather.'

That's great, but what about the M lenses. Are they protected too? If not, what's the point of protecting the camera.

Anyone know?

 

[newsgrunt]

Unless they have seals around the lens mount, I'd be hesitant to take it out in heavy-ish rain or snow. The MP and M6 I don't worry about.

 

[taemo]

while in Europe earlier this month, my m240 and 35 cron got splashed a little bit by both rain and salt water.

im just relieved to know that the rear screen, buttons and top dials are 'weather sealed'
the 35 cron for a while had stiff aperture and focus tab probably due to salt build up, but it cleared up after i wiped it off with damp cloth.

still sent both for cleaning to Leica NJ to be on the safe side

 

[Ricoh]

I'm considering the M240 under the current offer (Leica have extended the Summer price reduction, it was due to end 30 Sept, but it's now extended to 31 Oct - does that point to something happening regarding a new model announcement?).
The Leica body might be ok in lightish rain, we'll the company says as much, but looking at the glass that I've handled in the shop, swithing lenses etc, I would be more guarded with the M lens. So as a system of camera and lens it doesn't make sense to me.

 

[jaapv]

Not to worry, even the unsealed versions of the camera were pretty water resistant, to the extent of a number of M8s and M9s being dunked without dire results. All my digital Ms have been pretty wet from time to time in heavy rain, with an M8 actually sitting in a puddle during a stormy passage in an open boat,which got me pretty worried at the time, but all are fine. The M240 should do better than that. According to Leica the tolerances on mount and lenses are so tight that the camera will qualify as splash- and rain proof despite the lack of rubber seals on the lenses.

 

[Doug]

Good to hear, Jaap, thanks!

 

[Ricoh]

Thanks for the clarification, Jaap. What amazing camera systems they are!

 

[jaapv]

Thanks for the clarification, Jaap. What amazing camera systems they are!

Yes, but rain and splash proof does not mean they are designed to be taken diving. 😉
The S is actually designed to withstand submersion for a limited time.

 

[Ricoh]

Nothing more than a light drizzle for me. I'm no Jacques Cousteau! 🙂

 

[jaapv]

You can happily drizzle away with an M240 🙂