One body, one lens...which ones?

So, what are your recommendations for a Leica for long-term, with one lens to use everyday?
Started with M4 and 'cron 35 v4 for a year. In a solo body/lens config, I now prefer M4 and Summaron 35/2.8: beautiful results, classic handling, low tech, chrome galore. :)
 
Similar to Rico, I started with Leica with an M6TTL and a 50mm summicron. That went after I discovered the 50mm elmar-M. Sold the summicron without much thought and haven't looked back. I do have 35mm and 21mm available, but could happily leave them at home most days.

Ian
 
Coming from a Leica background and having gotten a new Nikon RF for basically the same reason you are looking at a Leica I think. I can say the New S3 is a great camera. Leicas are still easier for me to use (part being just more familiar) and will be the film camera I'll always have, but if I was going to recommend a RF the new Nikon with the new lenses are hard to beat.

Depending on the money you have to play with, either...

1) expand your Nikon RF system with a 28 or 35, another camera, maybe an S2 and make it simple - one classic style RF system.

2) Get the Leica you can afford, any will do. I'd look for a good working condition M2 (CLA will set you back $200-300 if needed) and 35mm lens (too many aging M3s have finder problems). The M2 .72 finder is just great with a 35. Get yourself Leica lens too - the whole experience - an older Summicron 3rd version. If you want to spend more find a good user M6 for its meter, same basic finder. Don't worry too much about the purchase, you're just trying and if you like it will do a lot more thinking later, and if you decide to sell you'll probably get most of your investment back.

Have fun!
 
The body doesn't matter, all M bodies are GREAT. All Leitz/Leica 35mm are great too.

"Pour faire simple" : Leica M6 + 2/35 is the ****.

forget about "when was that lens produced???" it doesn't matter its the highest quality you'll have. the more recent, the cleaner, thats all.
 
Nikon F3hp and the 28mm f/2.8 with CRC (my favorite combo, murders my other gear in terms of sharpness and color...) :)
 
I've been going around with this one for a while. I'm going to Europe in September. Which body/lens combo? I think I agree with Raid. I'll probably go with the M3 and the 'cron DR.l
Vic
 
If I could only have one lens it would be a fast 35mm. My 35 Lux is the lens which I most consistently make decent shots with. It is also the only lens that I take when I travel. I grew up shooting a 50mm but I really believe that the 35mm lens is a more versatile focal length. Match it with whatever m-mount body that you like and I believe that you will be pleased. If you are not then it is a lens that you'll have no trouble selling.
 
Get Brian Sweeney to shim a nice Zeiss Opton Sonnar 50/1.5 for the Nikon & never look back...

;)

William
 
What a great forum...there have been so many good suggestions, I don't know where to start...maybe a second job? I can see this is gonna take some time!
 
Just about any Leica lens/body combo is great but my all time, incredible favorite is my old M3 with my new 50 1.4 asph. Add some film, a handheld meter and you can do some wonderful stuff.
Joe
 
Back
Top Bottom