Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2007/08/30
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Friends in the LUG Part of the Leica rangefinder appeal was it's collectible status. A fine mechanical Leica M3 for example passed from hand to hand, over its lifespan. Saved for the need to have the occasional CLA, the camera was virtually indestructible in good hands. An average digital camera is like an extension of the computer. It is a use and discard item. The cost of repairing older digital cameras is often not considered worthwhile. The M8 is somewhat different, it has the advantage of coupling with a vast variety of lenses originally designed for the earlier M cameras. Owning and using the M8 has additional meaning in its own right. Its price is too high for it to be treated as another use and throw away camera. On the other hand, it is a matter of time when the M8 will go the way that digital cameras do. Electronics and electricals as I understand deteriorate with time. Only time can tell whether it is worthwhile doing an digital "CLA" on the M8. In the same line of thought, one must also decide whether it is worthwhile to buy a used M8 that has done some mileage. If there is disquiet about the wisdom of buying a pre-owned M8, then this will have a bearing on its collectible status. Happy snaps, Dan K.