Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/02/25
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]<< Has anybody out there ever wondered if Leica would consider building some future rangefinder Leica on a totally different chassis? When you consider that the current M-6 is derived from the M-3 of 1954 (and designed years before that), you've got to wonder if some engineer at Solms has an idea for a TOTALLY NEW Leica, one that isn't based on the current M chassis (but keeping the M lens mount). Heresy?>> I assume that folks at Leitz and Solm gave this idea a lot of thought; and probably came up with prototypes that were tested in the field and found wanting. The M structure rests with its unitary design; it's seems machined out of one piece of metal. The best body design nearest to its stability is the Nikon F's and the CL's. None of the hinged bodies have the M integrity or compactness. Sometimes we can be unfortunate as to have our wish come true. Then we must buy back the genuine article used at twice the price we would have paid for it new. Had we bought more CL's, we'd be able to buy new ones now. Let's quit while we're ahead and buy a variety of new M's at reasonable prices. As for heresy, it never occurred to me. The facts about the M are its best defense. Bob