[Leica] 15mm Heliar

["Clompus, Dr. Richard [INN]" <RCLOMPUS@INNUS.JNJ.com>]

Fellow LUGnuts,

I just ordered the 15mm Heliar lens, external viewfinder and screw to
bayonet adapter from Fieldgrass & Gale in London.  The cost was very
reasonable (less than $500 USD for everything including shipping).  I had
considered the Hologon lens modified for the M Leica but the $2995 was too
steep for a lens that wouldn't be used that often.  Interestingly, although
I will be in London on business next week, it was cheaper just to have it
UPS shipped by air before I leave for London.  Fancy that.  It would make
sense for a US Leica dealer to import this lens for sale here in the states.
I will admit that it has become very easy to order items from the UK by
phone and two day air shipping makes it even more acceptable.  The world is
truly becoming smaller.  

I'll have to let everyone know how it works out.  The era of private label
specialty lenses for the M Leica is slowly growing.  This will be the first
non-Leica lens I own.  It seems like a good value for the money - I hope.
We'll see by next week.

Happy shooting,

Richard Clompus, OD