Re: [Leica] Above AF

[Steve Hickel <smhickel@x2.alliance.net>]

Bob,

I believe that it was suggested that Leica might use the AF film plane
solution, not a lens based solution.

Steve

At 12:15 PM 2/2/98 -0500, you wrote:
>Maybe, but if Leica doesn't come up with AF in the near future it's days are
>counted. --Christian Becker
>-------------------------------------------------------
>Christian,
>
>Leica has an exclusive product in both the M and R lines. That is precision
>lenses. AF can't use precision lenses simply because that type of lens needs
>more play and lighter materials which can be driven by a miniature motor.
>
>Every manufacturer dreams of having a product the competition doesn't have.
>Why would Leica Solms want to jeopardize its market and position by becoming
>just another camera producer, competing in an already overcrowded market
>dominated by the likes of Nikon, Minolta and Canon?
>
>I would never buy a Leica AF because it would then not be a true Leica. In
>fact, I don't even like the P&S's carrying the Leica logo. They are not
>Leicas. 
>
>It is precisely because Leica Solms has kept to the Leica Leitz tradition of
>uncompromising quality that it is successful. That is what makes the M's so
>unique and powerful an instrument.
>It contains no will-o-the-wisp circuit boards that must be at the heart of an
>AF camera. 
>
>Tho I haven't used a Leica reflex, I assume it also embodies the Leitz
>tradition of absolute lens quality and mechanical dependability. 
>
>I use Nikon and other AF's. They handle differently. I must constantly check
>against their automatism and compensate for the marginal loss of quality.
>When I use an AF I'm sealed up in that technology. I don't experience such
>helplessness working with a Leica. 
>
>Bob 
>
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>
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