Re: [Leica] Leica quality MF system ?

[D Khong <dkhong@pacific.net.sg>]

>This question was asked of me, at my last Leica Workshop. Perhaps I could
>get some feedback from the LUG.
>
>"As a Leica user and enthusiast, and in keeping with the optical quality
>I'm accustomed to, what medium format camera would you recommend should I
>wish to augment my 35mm Leica system with a roll film system?"

After much thought and pondering over this question, I think the best MF
camera would probably be a German Rollei TLR with 80/2.8 Planar lens which
has superb sharpness, nice contrast, and the focal length responsible for
80% of MF prize winning pictures.  Moreover, it is also light, rugged,
simple to use, easy to service, relatively cheaper to buy and if well taken
care of will last another lifetime.   The lack of interchangeable lens is
not really a great disadvantage when you consider that the "normal lens"
(just like the 50mm summicron on your leica) can be used to take a majority
of pics.

My friends who have used the Mamiya 6 or 7 were initially elated by the
optics, the MTF curves, the "normal camera type" feel and configuration.  A
good many were not so excited after using the camera for some time and I
started to get beedback like, "I think the camera is not as sharp as
before".  I suspect Mamiyas are great to begin with but the quality of the
workmanship does not meet the demands of years and years of use.  My
impression about Hasselblad and Rollei is that these two are built to last
and withstand rigorous use without faltering.  Hence this quality is
reflected in their prices in the used market.
I suspect the same is reflected in Leica prices to some extent.  In other
words, the used stuff is still quality stuff when you buy Hassies, Rollies
and Leicas as compared to Mamiyas, Bronicas, Pentaxes, Ns and Cs.

Dan K.