Which Classic M for the Leica feel?

johnastovall

johnastovall

Light Hunter - RIP 2010
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I'm wanting to start back shooting film (process and scan my own) and have been thinking about getting an M3 but a friend who shot Leica for many years professionally suggested the M4. I want a completely mechanical camera. I've got Canon 5D's and an Epson R-D1 for digital. I've looked at the M8 and found it lacking. But I want to get back to shooting a Leica body, Lenses and Tri-X.

The M3 or the M4?
 
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Yes, or the M2...

The M4 might be the quintessential mix. Covers all 4 classic focal lengths. Last of the classic-sized M bodies made on the old model and from old materials in Wetzlar. Has "modern" film-handling features (quick load, rewind crank rather than knob) and traditional features that disappeared in later classic bodies (self-timer). Almost the last classic M to have the lower-flare RF optics (some early M4-2s did, also). I could probably go on...you will pay at least a small premium for the M4, though - although it is probably worth it? Only you can decide in the end. These threads go on and on - they're all great. Buy one and enjoy taking pictures!

PS - remember that even the youngest of the M3/M2/M4 set are now 30 years old; some are 50 years old. Budget a CLA unless you're shown a receipt for a recent CLA.
 
i recommend the m2 or m3 over the m4. but which body you obtain depends on what focal lengths you prefer....if the 5cm FL and >, then go for a M3. if you shoot the 35mm FL quite frequently, then the M2. if you can't afford both the m2 and m3, but can budget for one of them, then i'd suggest get the M3 for its VF@.91 :D
 
I like the M3 for 40mm or greater, and the M6 for 40mm or less. The M3 has a more solid feel(to me) than the M6, although equally for shooting. I find that an internal meter actually slows down my shooting because I have to fiddle with the meter, but using the M3 with a handheld is really quicker in real time for me.
 
I continue to think that the M6 classic is hands down the best M user around and I've got 35 years of using M Leicas to base that opinion on, but the OP seems to want to use vintage bodies (which I understand, having my '55 M3 within arms reach here at work).
 
Kyle has a fairly priced M4 right now - see classifieds. Many say that the M4 is the epitimie. I don't know since I'm partial to my BP MP.
 
I love my M4 ( you've probably worked that out by now!).

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He's back!

John,

Welcome back to the fold. I'm glad you have "seen the light" once more.

Did you ever get the IIIg back in working order? Are you using it?

When the M4 was new I drooled all over them. Next to my Canon IV-S2, the M4 seemed fantastic. There are times when I still covet one. 35-50-90 framelines.

If I remember correctly, you have a Canon 85mm and a collapseable 50mm Summicron in LTM. Nod to the M3 for the longer RF base.

You have a 35mm/1.2 Nokton. Nod to the M2 or M4.

No bad choices in that group. Whatever you do, never never ever ever pick up an M5 and use it. You've been warned. Don't do it! :D :cool: ;) :)

Good luck!
 
No bad choices in that group. Whatever you do, never never ever ever pick up an M5 and use it. You've been warned. Don't do it!

Spoken like a true M5 zealot ... but I can't dissagree! :)
 
John, since you said you'd be using a 35 most of the time... M4 or M2. An M2 would generally be cheaper, and would probably be my choice if I were in your position.
 
I've got an opportunity to pick up a black M6 at a reasonable price from a friend. It has obviously some signs of use, but the cladding is perfect and there are no dents and it works perfectly. Someone said it was a better choice for wide angle lenses. I have 35mm and 50mm lenses at present, but would like to acquire a 28 down the road. I'm not sure what the framelines are.

Is there any reason an M6 is a bad choice?
 
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