[Leica] Fw: R8 Loaner promotion

["Greg Bicket" <GBicket@email.msn.com>]

- -----Original Message-----
From: Greg Bicket <GBicket@email.msn.com>
To: LUG <Leica-Users-Digest@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us>
Date: Tuesday, October 13, 1998 9:37 AM
Subject: R8 Loaner promotion

>Hi LUG,
>
>Following some of the thoughts regarding the R8 loaner promotion, it occurs
>to me that there have earlier been lots of comments that mirror my
>experience with this body.  The R8 is a big camera, and it seems a little
>intimidating in its bulk sitting on the shelf in the camera store.  Add a
>winder, and this aspect is even more apparent.
>
>The great experience I am having with my R8 is due in no small part to the
>camera's ergonomics once in hand.  It almost feels like the shape of the
>body is gripping back.  Its weight goes from initially surprising to "Wow,
>well balanced," once a lens is mounted.  But these are impressions that
only
>take place after a few minutes of holding the camera.  Satisfaction with
the
>camera's joint meter/shutter function, and impressions of the glass can
only
>come to those who USE this camera.  And its appearance in initial
>impressions is off putting to some.
>
>I think the R8 loaner program, with its incentive to use it, burn film with
>it, and scrutinize those results is one of the most on-target, clever,
>sell-camera promotions I've seen.  Couldn't be better tailored to fit the
R8
>reality.  It suggests that Leica is really in tune with its products,
>understands its marketplace, and is confident about what will happen when
>the R8 gets into peoples' hands.  The numbers will reveal whether it moves
>R8 bodies in volume, but I think the promotion signals a much more market
>focused marketing effort by Leica, and in my opinion, that is very good
>news.
>
>If you haven't, go try an R8!  There will never be a better time to get to
>know the camera, no strings attached, and if you like it, they've coupled
>all this with a U$400 rebate.  But be advised; while close familiarity with
>the R8 is not hazardous to your health, it may in many situations become
>habit forming!
>
>Enjoy the light.
>
>Greg Bicket
>
>