Re: [Leica] What the LUG really wants for x-mas

[Dante Stella <dante@umich.edu>]

Martin:

That's hilarious - echoes posts which pop up (a) here and (b) on the 
Greenspun group.  Maybe the LUG needs some Alzheimer's medication to 
remember that it asks for this camera with alarming frequency.

Dante
No Alzheimer's yet; just some-timers!

On Wednesday, January 8, 2003, at 03:09 PM, Martin Howard wrote:

>
> OK, I realize this is a little late, but after some careful 
> consideration, I've come to the conclusion that the perfect LUG camera 
> does not yet exist.  However, I think that if we apply a little gentle 
> pressure on Leica Camera AG, they'd be only too happy to produce it.  
> The following is a list of characteristics that I've been able to 
> determine as the optimum, to meet as many of the LUG wishes as 
> possible.
>
> The camera would be digital, utilizing a 24x36mm, full-frame, low 
> noise image sensor capable of producing 11MB output files.  While the 
> M body may seem like a good platform, a more (size) economical basis 
> would be the Null Series, but with the standardized casing of the late 
> IIIc cameras.  This to allow a modern replica of the MOOLY motor, 
> which will actually house an extended battery pack.  This should be 
> offered in two sizes: the original MOOLY size and the smaller, more 
> modern, RapidWinder size, for those that prefer more modern looks.
>
> The camera would be machined out of solid brass, with black paint and 
> nickel controls.  While unnecessary, the cloth curtains would be 
> retained for that "Leica feel" and the characteristic sound.  While 
> this also means that flash sync would remain at 1/50s, this is 
> perfectly in keeping with heritage of the camera.  Also, initial 
> offering would be in the form of a low-cost, entry-level camera with a 
> fixed, 50mm Tessar-type lens and external viewfinder, with later, 
> luxury models providing built-in rangefinder, and interchangable (LTM) 
> lens mount to follow.
>
> Automatic, aperure-priority exposure control and a choice of spot, 
> centre-weighted, or matrix TTL light metering would be standard, both 
> for available light and for flash.  In keeping with the Leica 
> tradition, but recognizing the advantages of modern technology, the 
> 512MB memory card would only store still images in uncompressed or RLL 
> TIFF format, but provide for a 320x240 pixel QuickTime movie mode.
>
> To cater to the modern user, both FireWire and USB connections would 
> be offered, with BlueTooth offered as an option via an adapter 
> conceiled in a replica external rangefinder.  In keeping with the 
> Leica tradition, highest image quality is imperative.  As such, the 
> sensor would operate at an effective film speed of roughly 6 ASA.  
> While this may seem conservative at first glance, do remember that 
> many fine photographers produced outstanding images using equipment 
> very similar to a Null Series loaded with 6 ASA film.
>
> From my careful analysis of the LUG forum, I've concluded that this is 
> the perfect balance between Leica's illustrious heritage and the 
> capabilities offered by modern technology.
>
> Perhaps we could get a special run made with "LUG" in script lettering 
> on the top plate?
>
> M.
>
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