Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/11/14

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Subject: RE: [Leica] M5 or M6 ?
From: "Andrew S Jordan" <andrewsjordan@worldnet.att.net>
Date: Mon, 15 Nov 1999 00:58:41 -0500

Bruce B. and Ken W.:

1. Checking the M5 against the M6-Classic there is no difference in viewing
the 35mm frame if you wear eyeglasses. The problem with both is that you
have to move your eyes to see the sides of the frame. Of course, this rules
out the use of the M6-HM for eyeglass wearers in using 35mm lenses.
2. There are other subtle differences between the M5 and M6 framelines. We
all know that the M5 does not show the 28mm  frame. But I resort to this
only in a hurry when I am in a hurry or too lazy to install the 28mm finder
in the M6 hot shoe.
The 50mm lines in the M5 are not cluttered by the 75mm frame; however there
are four notches in the M5 within the 50mm frame outlining the coverage of
the semispot CdS meter. In my view the M6's 75mm frame lacking fuller
horizontal lines is  deficient for the 75mm f1.4 lens (which I have thought
of acquiring based on images displayed by LUG members). Here, the new Cosina
75mm finder will come in handy. In the M5, the vertical dashed lines for the
90mm frame are somewhat thicker and provide better confinement than the
shorter vertical lines in the M6. The thin notches of the 135mm frame are
about the same in both cameras and are frankly inadequate for lining up
buildings, etc. Here, I use a 135mm brightline finder. (Of course,  a better
solution is using an M3, M6-HM, or switching to a reflex body.)
3. The key problem of the M6 is the viewfinder flare reducing contrast.
Although Leica USA in Northvale alleviated this problem to some extent on my
M6, I feel that focusing the M5  in tricky lighting situations is more
secura than focusing the M6.
4. In spite of the added weight and larger size, I am very pleased with the
M5 because of the accuracy of the semispot meter, the shutter speed readout
in the finder, the high quality of construction,etc.
5. Would I want a second M5 body ? Not really. The camera is at least 20
years old and in mint- condition it is pretty expensive. Then, one doesn't
know how well it was maintained by its previous owner(s), necessitating an
overhaul by an expert repairperson like Sherry. This would bring the total
cost to about $2300. For that money one can get a brand new M6 in any
configuration with at least a 3 year guarranty.

with best regards, Andrew Jordan, Short Hills, NJ