M4-P. An undervalued gem?

[Graham Line]

Joe, are you saying that an M2 and M4-P have same level of 'build-quality' then? I have multiple M2/M3/M4 and I don't even want an M4-P, it is indeed a cheapen version anyone familiar with Leica knows it. Or you want to argue that M4-P is better built than M2/3/4?

I drive a BMW and used to drive a Toyota, latter was very reliable but beamer is better built i think 😀

I'm saying that the shutters and focusing are equally accurate and both cameras required the same levels of routine maintenance. The differences are imperceptible on film.

 

[JNewell]

I'm saying that the shutters and focusing are equally accurate and both cameras required the same levels of routine maintenance. The differences are imperceptible on film.

There are little differences between the two cameras but in practical usage there are no differences.

These two hit the nail on the head, speaking as an owner of many Ms, including M3, M4, M5, M4-P and M6 bodies.

Is the M4-P built to the same craft standard? No.

Does it perform all of the mechanical functions as well as an M4? Absolutely.

Does it have the same fondle factor? No, but I do not notice this when I'm taking pictures, which is after all what they were all designed for.

 

[WoolenMammoth]

man, some of you guys can nit pick down to a molecule. Whats probably far more relevant that nobody has brought up is not how much worse in build this camera is than an M2 or an M4 but how much BETTER it is than just about any other M mount body from other manufacturers, bessa, etc. I would certainly rather operate an M4-2 than a bessa...

 

[maddoc]

man, some of you guys can nit pick down to a molecule. Whats probably far more relevant that nobody has brought up is not how much worse in build this camera is than an M2 or an M4 but how much BETTER it is than just about any other M mount body from other manufacturers, bessa, etc. I would certainly rather operate an M4-2 than a bessa...

... a different point of view, I second this. There is no "low-quality build" M Leica, IMHO. Features have changed with time, the VF was modified - simplified - and the material of the gear was changed for allowing modern production processes and coupling of a motor-drive. Every new M-Leica model is based on the long-time experience in producing the same model, same shutter- / film advance-mechanism.

On a side note, I have followed the dealer-prices for used M Leicas here in Japan (where "Leica-collectors" rule the market) for some time. An used M4-P or M4-2 request higher prices than a standard M2 or M3 and are on the same level with a M4. The standard black-chrome M4-P without box, strap etc., just a body-cap and in 8~9 of 10 condition goes for about 1400 $ dollar.

 

[edodo]

the m4-p is the perfect M without electronics!