[Leica] Re: The S2 is not a LEICA

[lrzeitlin at optonline.net (Lawrence Zeitlin)]

On Dec 20, 2008, at 11:00 PM, Hoppy wrote:

> Steve , in my opinion, the purpose of the S2 is to offer a superb  
> medium
> format LEICA system at the top of the quality tree for pros. The lens
> specifications are simply stunning. I very much look forward to  
> seeing the
> first results as they come into service.


For true believers, the S2 is not a Leica. It shares none of the  
heritage of Oskar Barnack's inspiration. With few exceptions, Leicas  
were designed to be portable, indeed pocketable. The camera was  
intended to be a photographic companion on hikes and trips. An S2 and  
lens kit will require a pack mule. There has always been a continuity  
between camera generations. One of the features of the 35 mm Leica RF  
design is that all LTM and M mount lenses made for the last 70 years  
can be mounted on the modern film and digital RF Leica cameras.  
Almost every bloated Leica failed in the marketplace. Leica makes (or  
made) first class optical equipment, binoculars, surveying gear,  
etc.) and the S2 specs are ambitious indeed. It may be a great  
professional and studio camera, and possibly a Hassleblad killer -  
BUT IT IS NOT A LEICA.

Oskar must be spinning in his grave.

Larry Z