Re: [Leica] If Leica is too expensive what would be the best alternative?

[Dan Cardish <dcardish@microtec.net>]

If you are interested in new equipment, I think you would only be happy
with a camera like the Nikon FM2.  It is an all mechanical camera, with
batteries used only for the meter, similar to the M6.

On the used market, there are many old mechanical Minoltas out there with
excellent lenses at reasonable prices (my first camera was a Minolta
SRT-101, so I am a bit biased  ;-)).   My understanding is that Minolta
optics have similar 'bokeh' to Leica's.  I still have my Minolta 58/1.2
lens, which took beautiful photographs in it's day.  It still focuses very
smoothly, very similar in feel to leica lenses.

One thing to keep in mind, Nikon optics focus in the opposite direction to
that of Leica (or Minolta).

Dan C.

At 06:06 PM 18-07-98 +0200, you wrote:
>Dear Luggers,
>
>Since the majority of us probably didn't start with a Leica, I wonder if
>you can help me with the choice between the different brands like
>Minolta, Canon, Nikon or Pentax. I rather buy a non-AF camera, because I
>like to spend my money rather on a good lens than on electronical
>gadgets. Ideally I prefer a lens or a serie of lenses that resembles the
>leica the most. Thank you in advance.
>
>Yours sincerely,
>
>Alexander Koning
>
>