Which M for me?

[splitimageview]

Given budget constraints, I'd look at (a) preferred initial focal length first, then (b) lens rendering style, and from there choose a body based on (c) viewfinder differences and (b) shutter differences.

For example if 50mm is the preferred starting focal length, I'd pick from a zillion options of lenses based on the 'look' of the photos (and speed); then I'd go with an M3 because of its high mag finder and 50mm frame, and very quiet shutter. (Any M shutter is fine for me as 1/1000 top speed is ok, and I'd rather have silent than fast.)

If 28mm is the choice, the lens options are more expensive and fewer. Probably a Voigtlander 28 Ultron, and an M4-P (28mm framelines and quiet shutter.)

If 1/1000 isn't quick enough, one could go with a faster metal shutter at the expense of more noise. How does a Bessa shutter compare to an M shutter noise-wise?

PS>I've bought almost all of my lenses used over the years, Nikkors included, and never had a bad experience.)

 

[pvdhaar]

Although many here advocate matching up a 50mm with an M3, it's not a must do that's chiseled in stone.

YMMV, but I really do appreciate a 50mm on a 0.72x finder (in my case the M4) because of the generous amount of context that you see outside the 50mm franelines. It's such a perfect thing to be able to anticipate how events unfold into the frame..

As you've already found, there are ways to mix and match brands and get excellent value for money. A Bessa with a Leica lens is one way, but a (used) Leica body with a Voigtlander or Konica lens is another. The Leica bodies are virtually inaudible in case not drawing attention is the main point. The Bessa's have a very noticable shutter click.

 

[ferider]

How is KEH's grading for Leica bodies? Are the bargain grade cams useable, or do they need CLA attention? Are used lenses a crap shoot? I know they are with Nikon SLR lenses.

I think you can safely buy a BGN Leica if you are looking for a good user.
But you should budget a CLA in any case. The good news is for M2, M3, M4
you can get a great and fast CLA at Youxin's for less than US 100.

WRT lenses, there is always a reason KEH grades BGN. For old Leica
lenses (< 1970 or so) this is often cleaning marks or haze (soft
coatings and they do tend to fog). But a hazed Summicron might
give you even more of the Leica look 🙂

Best,

Roland.

 

[acrystalball]

Finally took the plunge!

Finally took the plunge!

After a lot of feverish reseach, I decided the M2 + 50mm/2 summicron lens would be the best starter Leica kit for me. pvdhaar's comments about the context outside of the framelines of the .72 rangefinder sealed the deal for me. I definitely wanted a camera with 35mm framelines, as the 35/2 is the lens I will add next.

I found this one on eBay today, and snagged it:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=170175447189&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=007

I'm sure it will need some TLC, but I think I got a great deal...good seller rating at the very least.

Thanks again for all the great discussion/advice. Hopefully I'll be posting my first pics from it very soon.

Kind regards,
Crystal

http://www.crystalkeesey.com

 

[maddoc]

Congrats Crystal ! I had a look at the camera (the link you provided) and it looks very nice from the photos. You should consider a CLA (e.g. with Youxin Ye) and then buy lots of film !

 

[ernstk]

Good choice. The M2 is probably the best all round M model, with better build quality than the later non brass M s.

Ernst