The Future M Line- - -speculations

[FrozenInTime]

I envision a bunch of overpriced special editions in 2013 ; with the 100th anniversary of the Barnack camera (ref. M4-P 1913 - 1983 70th anniversary )

 

[daniel_aj7]

I think they should keep the 2 lines seperate. Think of this as a market segmentation strategy. I hope this release of the M and ME is representative of their future company direction.
In 1 segment they have the crowd who wants the newest and the best who thinks Leica have to keep up to date with the technology: The new M.
In another we have the purists who thinks Leica should stay having a rangefinder and simple picture taking capability: The ME. I think they should develop the ME towards the direction of making it smaller and closer to the film M bodies, with no frills like EVF or whatever. Put the latest technology in the M line.

 

[flip]

Don't give Leica any new special edition ideas.

 

[gdi]

Within 3 years:
The M-E will be Leica's "purist" camera. Priced under $5k US, it will appeal to those who are like the people who now carry the torch for film M's. There will be no loss of status associated with "entry level" products; instead, a certain panache that goes along with "I don't need all that other crap; just give me a great lens." The camera is likely to improve its specs as all things digital must. But I'll stick with the price point target.

The M9/M9P might disappear, or it will become like the "sports package upgrade" that BMW offers. More power, different suspension, and a little badge-ing that sets its owners apart from the pack.

The M-new will be, simply, the best Leica ever. Folks (like me) who "have no use for video" will get used to the idea of a premium ("the" premium) camera that has most of the features of a smart phone. 2016 will bring the "Auto-Rangefinder" in a body not much different from today's M's.

Your crystal ball has the optional rear view mirror, I see. But it is a little fogged up...

Your first paragraph is basically the Monday's Leica announcement + $500. Adjust the mirror with regards to the M9/P; they have been announced as end of life in the next few weeks, so no "sports" model in the future of "M".

We can't be sure what you mean by an "Auto-rangefinder", but if you mean à la the 1960's Ilford Auto RF, clean the mirror; if you mean AF, don't hold your breath till 2016 for an AF M.