Re: [Leica] First Leica Kit

["Dan Post" <dwpost@email.msn.com>]

Dan (4)
Welcome to the monkeyhouse!
My experience is with M2 and M3- if you favour the 35 and 50mm lenses, then
the M2 is your camera of cohoice as the 35 framelines are included in the
VF.
Optically, the black and chrome lenses are the same- it is just that the
black anodized finish works better over aluminum, and the chrome works
better over brass- I have a black Summicron 50 on my chrome M3, works fine,
lasts a long time, and looks pretty snazzy. Just hold out for good glass, a
little wear on the barrel is normal, and no problem- the lens will probably
be around when your grandchildren inherit the camera!
Significan differences? not really- if you were hammering in fence posts
with the lense barrel, the brass is heavier- maybe a bit harder, and I know
it is the traditional lens mounting metal of choice because it is easy to
machine, doesn't bind when properly lubricated, and is durable.... butthen
again. anodized aluminum does pretty much the same!
Good Luck on your quest, and check back in often! We're always roasting
someone, and 'fresh meat' is always welcome!!!   :o}~

Dan
- -----Original Message-----
From: Brown, Dan <DBrown@uniden.com>
To: 'LUG Post' <leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us>
Date: Tuesday, May 18, 1999 10:01 AM
Subject: [Leica] First Leica Kit


>Hello all:
>
>I am new to this digest.  I presently shoot with Nikon and Mamiya 7
>gear.  Recently, I have been thinking about adding a basic Leica M kit
>for times when the virtues of this system would be suitable.  Compact,
>quiet, unobtrusive, reliable, etc.  I am interested in "user" gear, not
>collectability.  I would probably get a 50mm or 35mm lens.
>
>Two questions (forgive me if they have been hashed and rehashed in the
>past).
>
>I noticed that the black finish lenses are lighter and cheaper than the
>chrome finish lenses (I guess the price difference disappears on the
>used market).  I understand that the black lenses are made from aluminum
>and the chrome from brass.  Is the difference significant?  Is one
>better than the other?
>
>Assuming I can live without an internal light meter, which Leica M body
>represents the best value for a "user" camera.  M3, M4, M6?  Any models
>to avoid?
>
>Thanks, in advance, for your help.
>
>Dan Brown
>Fort Worth, Texas