MP/M7 vs. M6...Reliability

[Avotius]

if I had a black mp I would wear the hell out of it so it would brass and show that nice color, its a tool not a china vase!

On ther other hand though I prefer the M7, gota love seeing the shutter speed in the veiwfinder

 

[SDK]

My first (used, early Wetzlar) M6 had uneven, streaky exposure at 1/1000s, ruining negatives. Two rolls after it was adjusted by a pro repair shop, it was doing it again. I had another used M6, a TTL that was perfectly functional. I've had wonderful results from my two M7s, with no electrical or mechanical trouble. This isn't a scientific answer, though, just anecdotes. But I doubt Leica would tell you which camera is the most reliable. Newer cameras may have the longest working lives, but a good used camera may be fine for 15-20 years. Unfortunately, it's impossible to predict whether a particular used or new body will be trouble free.

My advice, go to a shop where you can look at M6s, M7s and MPs and buy the one you feel most comfortable using from an ergonomic point of view.

 

[Magus]

Post deleted by posters request

 

[Magus]

Post deleted by posters request

 

[Photar]

There's something to be said for having a backup camera or a second one for a second lens or different film.

I agree. You can buy two MP as well.

I have had zero problems with my M6s (both "bargain" grade from KEH), but my MP had to go back to Leica the first month

What can we learn from this and other anecdotical stories? We can't draw any statistically significant conclusions from this. We need a large sample for convergence in probability. Leica customer service could provide this but they won't do so. My personal null hypothesis: M6 and MP are equally reliable.

and I had to seal the eyepiece against dust.

Issue solved long ago.

I also much prefer the crank-type rewind of the M6.

I prefer the MP's solution. It's just a matter of taste.

despite myself I was unconcsiously overprotective of my MP's delicate paint finish whereas the more durable finish on the M6

If you had read Leica's MP brochure before buying you had known this in advance. The black paint is meant to wear off. If you - like me - don't like it buy a chrome body or a M6.

So, it's not "what ben z said." It's really just a matter of personal preferences and budget constraints - like every decision!

 

[mikebrice@mac.c]

I'm with Avotious. I have an MP and I don't worry about the paint at all. A little brassing shows I actually use the thing more than a status symbol.

I had the same decision, and I went with the MP because I wanted full mechanical, without having to worry about batteries. Of course there is a battery for the meter, but if that goes out I can meter myself or just bracket.

Whatever you choose, let that be the decision and don't second guess yourself, just enjoy the Leica experience.

 

[Magus]

Post deleted by posters request

 

[n8b]

Wow thanks for the great input! I've pretty much decided to go with a used M6 and probably upgrade to the MP finder by DAG. With the extra change I could pick up an extra lens or a Bessa body. Even though it's WAY tempting to go for the glory and get a brand new MP or M7 with that nice warranty I just couldn't justify the cost at this time. Hopefully in the future...

Thanks again!

 

[amateriat]

Wow thanks for the great input! I've pretty much decided to go with a used M6 and probably upgrade to the MP finder by DAG. With the extra change I could pick up an extra lens or a Bessa body. Even though it's WAY tempting to go for the glory and get a brand new MP or M7 with that nice warranty I just couldn't justify the cost at this time. Hopefully in the future...

Thanks again!

I think this is the pragmatic way to go. You'll end up with a trustworthy camera that will see you through the years with ease. I presume Leica's student program covers the purchase of used Ms such as yours? (Oh, to be young again!) 🙂

- Barrett

 

[n8b]

I think this is the pragmatic way to go. You'll end up with a trustworthy camera that will see you through the years with ease. I presume Leica's student program covers the purchase of used Ms such as yours? (Oh, to be young again!) 🙂

- Barrett

Thanks. I'm sure it will work out great. Unfortunately that program is good for new equipment only. If you consider early mid 30's as young I'll take it! I need all the time I can get.

Thanks again everyone!