RF purchasse guidance: please

[das Lichtquant]

All,
I’m newly registered with RFF; been a quiet viewer for about a year now. You’re a great group of folks.

This morning I read a posting by someone who was asking the group for some guidance on purchasing an M6. Everyone who responded had great suggestions and insights. Unfortunately I can’t find the thread to respond to or to reference (there was an entry by someone indicating that there is a M6 User’s manual on line)

I’m also in the same situation: looking to get my first RF and, although I enjoy researching these kind of things, it’s turned into a real science project ; Leicas. Bessas’ lenses, vendors….etc. oh my !

A few questions for the group. I'm looking for a camera to use, not to collect.

1). Is there any point in getting wrapped up evaluating serial numbers with the intent to pick up the latest model camera? My goal would be to pick up a used M6 in as good /excellent condition as possible. Assuming that a newer model might have all the latest improvements, might I want to find a recent serial number?

2). Through my research there are an infinite number of opinions about cameras & lenses; with passionate allegiances on all sides of the equations. I think (?) I understand the opinions as to why not to link Vioghtlander lenses with Leica bodies. How about the reverse: Would a R2A benefit from some Leica glass?


Thanks all.


Cheers. --jt

 

[das Lichtquant]

RF purchase guidance

RF purchase guidance

Thanks for your thoughts on this, especially the ttl insight. Never thought of it that way.
I wasn’t planning on using the m6 for flash, so maybe not having the ttl option will save me a few bucks; should I head in that direction.

The R2A option is consistently a strong option – the M6 pops up when I get the urge to be done with the research and just want to get down to taking pictures.

I like the thriftiness of the R2A kit; and paired with their 35/1.2 & a 75/2.5 Heliar, I should be good to go for a while.

 

[splitimageview]

The Bessa R2A rangefinder base length is very short, which makes super fast lenses that much more difficult to focus. In fact, it is about half as long as an M6 rangefinder base.

 

[Thardy]

if indeed you are looking at an m6 then really there's only 1 fundamental difference between early models (classic) and late models... that of course being the ttl

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Through-the-lens_metering

unless you plan on a lot of flash work then i wouldn't sweat the ttl... hell i have an m6ttl and have never had an occasion for it. the only value i suppose is that a later model (ttl) MIGHT have lower mileage.

you're going to get a million opinions on the voigtlander vs leica thing. i'll offer my rather boring opinion first... by the r2a and a couple of vs lenses for what you'll shill out for an m6 and lens. they are excellant camera's and lenses. sure there's a difference in build quality, fit, finish etc. but the vc gear will cost you a fraction of the dough. unless you're into nattering on and on about this lens vs that lens and taking pictures of your cat to compare them, you won't suffer catostrophic iq loss as a result of buying vc.
if rangefinders turn out to be your gig then by all means get yourself an m6 down the road (which you inevitably will) and you'll have a sack of lenses to muck about with!

Also if you don't like using RF cameras you have not spent so much money. On the other hand I have a couple of Bessas and still have the urge to buy a Leica.

 

[kshapero]

I would go for the Zeiss Ikon. Then you will get what you want right off. Best price vs quality in the RF world. IMHO.

 

[nicoy3k]

a perfect condition m6 will cost about the same as a new ikon

 

[Tuolumne]

You can think about it forever but you won't know until you try something out. People have very different reactions to the way a peice of gear actually handles. There is no theoretical best - only what works for you. Therefore, buy something and get going. You can work it out from there.

/T

 

[mfogiel]

das Lichtquant
If you haven't actually handled and looked through the Bessa Leica or ZI with a lens of choice, it is difficult to describe to you the differences, and for example it would be all even more complicated if you wear glasses. Lot's of people here will tell you to start with a cheap body and a good and inexpensive 35mm lens, and see how you like it. Probably the best combination to start with would be the R2A with the 35 Skopar or Ultron, then you can make up your mind how to proceed. For me, for example, 75mm fl is at the limit of what I'd like to use on a rf camera, and the ideal 35mm body is the ZI, but it may vary for you.

 

[pfoto]

You can mix and match CV/Zeiss/Leica equipment without too many problems. You can get a CV body but if you are thinking Leica you will always have an itch and if you have the money it may be best to just get an M6 and avoid the equipment churn. You are right, it can become a massive science project! I think it is worthwhile to follow the serial numbers, later is better and the last s/n of the last "classic" M6 batch built in 1998 is 2470300. One other thing, the M6 shutter speed dial turns in the opposite direction to the M6TTL. With the advent of the M6TTL Leica decided on a more ergonomic relationship between the dial and the exposure display in the VF. All shutter speed dials on cameras prior to the M6 turn in the same direction. All dials on bodies after the M6 turn in the same direction as the M6TTL (exception: Leica MP).

The 35mm and 75mm is a terrific two lens kit. The CV 75 Heliar is a bargain and there are a ton of excellent 35's to choose from. I am biased to Leica but the CV f1.2 is an outstanding lens. If you can deal with the size its an excellent choice. Good luck and let us know what you decide! 🙂

 

[das Lichtquant]

Not sure if this went through with the "quick reply" option, so here goes aain:

I knew there was a reason I spend so much time noodeling around on rff…………thanks to all for your time and insights; detailed esoteric stuff regarding the equipment, and the straight ahead common sense( get a camera and start taking pictures). Great !

Being new to this stuff, it’s a bit confusing when I read stuff about certain viewfinders being better for folks with glasses ( me) and .75 vs .85 -------- like George Harrison once said “ it’s all too much.” But it good fun being involved in the research process.

Thanks again all for your guidance; I’ll keep ya posted on what I end up with ---- for now, I’m wrapped up in a photography class ( Project Bas here in Philadelphia – great group of people)…working hard on getting the seeing muse and using my slr.

Life is good; >>>>Further>>>>