M5 - Re-Discovering Leica

[Nokton48]

How many M8's would they sell, if they also offered an alternative, at 1/3 to 1/2 the price of the M8?

 

[Goldorak]

How many M8's would they sell, if they also offered an alternative, at 1/3 to 1/2 the price of the M8?

Let's face it, the Leica CL wasn't the real problem. The real problem has always been the too high price tag of any Leica M model, thus making the Leica CL (fakely) appealing.

A CL is a joke plasticky camera. It asks for an extremely awkward hand positioning, it feels flimsy, the short baselength and film loading all make it an unworthy Leica. The CL is, to me, really worth 1/10th of any M camera and not 1/3rd. False economy all the way.

 

[Nokton48]

Maybe you're right, I do think it's all about high prices. I do also think they lost some M5 sales, due to people buying the CL. Maybe they learned a tough marketing lesson. Personally I've never wanted a CL, although I've handled them, mostly at camera shows.

I buy user-grade Leitz cameras and lenses, often at bargain prices, based on what I see advertised all over. I really was happy to get my chrome M5 for $510, and it's even got a name engraved (kind of cool), lots of rubs and a few teeny dings. But if it was perfect, I'd be afraid to throw it in my day bag, and use it. Prices seem to be going up. If I could find another chrome M5 for $510, I'd buy it right now.

 

[richardl]

Hi,

I have updated the wiki page on the M5 including the a comprehensive series of links. Any feedback or corrections would be appreciated.

Richard