Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/12/17
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]>Some questions for the group: > >Is the M5 now pretty much universally recognized as a good camera? B.D.: As a previous owner of a M4 and a current user of a M5 and M6, I think the underrated M5 was the finest rangefinder camera that has been produced by the wizards of Leitz Wetzlar. The advantages of the M5 compared to the M6 are (1) more sensitive analog spot meter with a spotsize of about 8mm vs 12mm in a M4;(2) shutter speed readout in the finder;(3) brighter and better defined viewfinder framelines for 35-50-90-135mm lenses;(4) no blackout of rangefinder spot in bright lights or when the eye is not centered;(5) oversized shutterspeed dial with overhang for easy operation. The disadvantages have been emphasized by the photographic press and many "disgruntled" users. These are (1) more complex loading of film; (2) inability to see film advance on top of the camera body; (3) larger size to accommodate meter circuit; (4) about 100gram heavier body which actually provides more stability at lower shutter speeds; (5) operates on mercury oxide batteries banned in th US(though not abroad). I think the size and weight issue should not be relevant to R8 users who accepted its novel shape and heft compared to the R4 to R7. Summing up the M5 is my favorite Leica rangefinder body which with use one learns to love! Regards and Happy Holidays, Andrew Jordan