Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/01/05
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]To the Lug group here is a memo from Leica to Leica USA dealers. Hope this help to disspell the rumors. Here is how it reads: Photographers who work with longer focal length lenses or with wide-open apertures have been asking for a model with higher magnification - similar to the M3- for some time. For these consumers - who can do without the 28mm frame line - the optics of the viewfinder were completely redesigned and the M6 was fitted with a viewfinder of .85xx magnification. This new viewfinder shows the image in a 0.85:1 scale (almost natural size) and has 5 bright line frames for all LEica M lenses from 35mm to 135mm. OF course, all wide angle lenses from the LEICA M program can be used on this model as well when coupled with the additional viewfinder attachment. Its general imaging characteristics and the display of the bright-line frames were optimized compared to the M6J. By enlarging the efffective metering basis of the rangefinder from 49.9mm to 59.1mm, the focusing accuracy was increased even more as well. An unobtrusive distinguishing mark "0.85" is engraved in the mirrored area of the LEICA M6 viewfinder window. Regardless of the identical viewfinder magnification, this is NOT the same viewfinder which was designed for the special M6J model. This new model will only be offered in the black chrome finish. 0.85x - The Advantages * The image display in the viewfinder is nearly 20% larger than that of the LEica M6 making it almost equivalent to regular eyesight. * Especially when using the longer focal length lenses (75, 90, 135mm) the image frame can be determined even more easily and accurately. * The respectively larger range metering field enables faster and more precise focusing especially in bad light conditions or when there is little contrast. * The setting accuracy is increased as well due to the enlarged effective metering base. this is especially important when using lenses that are widely opened or that have longer focal lengths. Catalog # 010-413. The minimum advertised price is $2595. Delivery is expected in early February. Hope this information helps. Sam Shoshan The Classic Connection Authorized Leica Dealer