Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2003/08/09
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]In a message dated 8/9/03 4:24:10 PM, jerryleh@pacbell.net writes: << I would hate to be constrained to the arbitrary limits of an essentially useless camera. >> Jerry, The point is that the CL isn't a useless camera. It is a very fine piece of equipment. But it requires that the photographer slightly change his or her way of working with it. For example, we can't use a lens that extends too far toward the meter element, so we can't use collapsable Leitz lenses. The CL viewfinder is confined to show 40, 50 and 90mm lenses only. I've never used a 50mm lens with it. The meter indicator needle sometimes only vaguely centers on the shutter speed. For most Ms you can buy an eyepiece diopter lens. Only used viewfinder diopters are available for the CL. The rubber lenshades for the 40 and 90 mm lenses deteriorate after about 20 years and there's no replacement available. The match needle TTL meter is delicate, so you must handle the camera with care. Loading film finds you balancing two objects tied together on a strap. But for that you have a brilliant viewfinder, a splendid focal plane shutter, a film plane mechanism that holds film absolutely flat. It isn't only the lenses that are so professional, it's the CL body that complements their precision. Ladies and gentlemen, the CL isn't for everyone. It requires deliberate effort to learn to use it smoothly. But the images are worth that extra patience and acquired skills. br - -- To unsubscribe, see http://mejac.palo-alto.ca.us/leica-users/unsub.html