Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2012/08/07
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I have three batteries, and recently upgraded my M9 to Firmware 1.196 #1 came with my M8 camera, part 14464, marked with the Leica Camera name moulded into case. Looks like a real McCoy: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/461931-REG/Leica_14464_Rechargeable_Lithium_Ion_Battery_f.html http://en.leica-camera.com/photography/m_system/accessories/power_supply/2216.html #2 came with the M9, but is identical with the M8 battery. #3 I bought after getting the M8. It is marked a little different from the other two. Can't recall what I paid or whether it was represented as a genuine Leica. It has a decal marking, not case moulded, somewhat like (but not identical to): http://www.ebay.com/itm/LEICA-M8-M8-2-M9-M9-P-ORIGINAL-RECHARGEABLE-BATTERY-NEW-/190699351621?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2c66912e45#ht_500wt_1128 So, I would say these are two genuine M8 batteries, and one might be a genuine battery, or a good counterfeit. Anyway, all three fit the M charger, work fine in the M9, and report a full charge. FWIW, I have had extensive experience with replacement batteries for Apple notebooks. Like Leica, the Apple batteries seem over-priced, and the Chinese replacement batteries are way cheaper. When you first get one they seem to work okay, and once in a while you get a good one that holds its charge and you feel smart because you just saved over $100. However, some Chinese batteries have small tolerance problems, and don't fit precisely (it might fall off). Some don't fully charge, or recharge. In that case you just lost your $25 bargain. From this I would say that the suspect battery has to be tested in an M9 to be sure. Anyone want to send me a battery, I would be happy to test it in an M9 with 1.196 firmware for you, no charge, but you have to pay shipping both ways. I am in California. Just contact me off-list. Bob Rose