Tough decision...give up my G2s?

[charlesfoto]

I've been a G2 user since their inception, currently use two G2s with the 28-45-90 lens combo. I have the opportunity to get a great deal on a mint Leica M7, along with a mint 50/2 Summicron and a mint 90/2.8 Elmarit(both newer versions). Problem is, I would have to sell my G2s to help finance this deal. Is my lusting for the M7 silly? I'm happy with the G2, of course, but that Leica mystique keeps creeping into my head. Anyone else ever have a similar predicament?

 

[Socke]

Everytime I think about selling one of my Gs to finance a Leica I remind myself about how I use the Gs and that this wouldn't be easy, if not impossible, without AF and AE and fast X-Sync. I've even used the 4 frames per second, mostly for bracketing.

I realy want something with a M-Mount so I can use the plentytude of LTM an M lenses but I wouldn't want to part with my Gs.

 

[KoNickon]

The 45 Planar is as good as if not better than any lens out there, and the 90 is of the same optical quality as the Elmarit. And you aren't getting a Leica 28 at all. I don't know -- it would have to be a tremendous deal on the M7 and lenses to make it worthwhile.

I can certainly understand your Leica lust -- but as a picture maker I don't think you will do better than the Contax. I'm kind of thinking that you should find a less expensive way to satisfy the lust -- like a nice M3 with an Elmar.

 

[jdos2]

I did. Unless you plan to run that M7 with lenses simply unavailable in Contax analogue, keep taking pictures with your G2's.

I got rid of my G2 for a Noctilux. I did well by that trade, but a year later, I want a G2 (this is seller's remorse for the third time) and the leica MP (with the Noctilux, 35 Summilux ASPH, modern 28mm Elmarit, 135mm Elmarit with square goggles) is gone.

The circle continues.

 

[charlesfoto]

Thanks for the quick...and rational responses. I guess I need to use the same arguments to myself that I use on the digital converts who insist that their digicams blow 35mm film out of the water. The best of my best photos are all from the G2, and I've used Nikon, Mamiya, and even currently use a D200 for some paid work, so I think I've answered my own questions. If I ever think I need that Leica "fix" again, I'll contact you guys. Thanks!

 

[RObert Budding]

Go for the Leica - and sell me a G2 at a good price!

Seriously, keep the G2 if you're happy with the photos.

 

[John]

Keep the G2 set. You could finance the M7 if it is such a great deal. If not you can get one later when you have saved up enough.

We might be just talking my skill level here but I find Leica photography to be slower than Contax G photography. Sometimes that is what I want, but sometimes it isn't. 🙂

 

[LazyHammock]

I sold my G1 kit and bought an M6. I love the Leica but I recently bought back into the Contax system with a G2 and lenses. The M6 and G2 both have a place in my bag and really compliment each other well. I wouldn't want to be without either. This doesn't help you I know, sorry!
Nick

 

[JohnL]

Never sell a camera or lens that gives you good results and you like using, except, possibly, to replace with an improvement that is functionally equivalent. That's in the bible somewhere, but can't find the reference.

 

[kbg32]

I have both systems. There is really nothing like the G2. Keep'em.

 

[RichardJ]

This is all very subjective to a degree. However, as already mentioned, that 45 planar is sublime. I (am fortunate enough to) own both the G2 and M7. Likewise, I have used a G2 for many years and I too have always lusted after a Leica. After much deliberation I raised finance to purchase it rather than having to sell other equipment. I would urge you to do likewise if at all possible. The G2 is my favourite camera and will always be my first choice when travelling (my gallery is over on contaxg.com; user R. Jenkinson). In truth we all love the awkward mf and the central VF and other odd ergonomics. I know it's heresy but it needs saying, The Leica is not a better camera. See, it's easy to say. I've just saved your sanity and bank balance.

Best regards from balmy eastern Spain

Richard

 

[GeneW]

It sounds as if you've decided to keep the G2s. They're lovely. What you could do next is hang around here and develop FSU lust. The reverse snobbery is good for the soul, and easy on the wallet 🙂

Gene

 

[mervynyan]

I bought 45/2 and 90/2.8 off ebay, The lenses are just too cheap to pass in comparison. I don't even have the camera body yet. How silly...

 

[Ash]

Only sell one. Cough up the cash another way.

I wouldn't sell something you'll miss.

 

[RdEoSg]

I'd keep the things! They are great cameras truely as you are aware. I have traded a few things over the years to buy something else. But they have always been things I don't use anymore etc. I wouldn't trade something I loved or was happy with etc. I'd just regret it later.

Of course others have already said this better than I, but there you go, put me down in the no catagory!

 

[jano]

Think about the benefits and drawbacks.

What you'll gain:
- better viewfinder (relativly speaking, I happen to like the G2's telescoping change with different lenses)
- larger selection of lenses
- leica mystique
- quietter shutter

What you'll loose:
- excellent lens system
- simplicity:
- autofocus
- autoexposure (the M7 has it, but I hear it's wonky and there are DX coding issues)
- film autoload
- speed (I tried CH mode the other day, hahahahahahah)

They are both good cameras, and both have a quality built suibtable as weapons in case of emergency 🙂

Jano

 

[charlesfoto]

Thanks, all ... after getting my blood pressure back to normal, I've decided to go the route that a few of you suggested. I'm keeping my G2s, and if I really "need" the M7 that badly, I'll save for it . Thanks again. 🙂

 

[nightfly]

It seems like since the Contax is farily automated, you might want a meterless Leica body and some older lenses which would offer something totally different both in operation and in look of the lenses. You could also probably get one without selling the Contax. Just something to think about.

 

[Fastfashn]

Thanks, all ... after getting my blood pressure back to normal, I've decided to go the route that a few of you suggested. I'm keeping my G2s, and if I really "need" the M7 that badly, I'll save for it . Thanks again. 🙂

Don't give it up. I sold all my film gear (2 Contax Gs and a 167MT) to go digital and I want to throw up every time I get a picture of a building back and there's visible distortion (lines aren't straight).

Keep your camera, buy a spare.

 

[Huck Finn]

I've been a G2 user since their inception, currently use two G2s with the 28-45-90 lens combo. I have the opportunity to get a great deal on a mint Leica M7, along with a mint 50/2 Summicron and a mint 90/2.8 Elmarit(both newer versions). Problem is, I would have to sell my G2s to help finance this deal. Is my lusting for the M7 silly? I'm happy with the G2, of course, but that Leica mystique keeps creeping into my head. Anyone else ever have a similar predicament?

Yes, it's silly. If you're happy with the G2, why change?