[Leica] My newest favorite Leica

[kip@mac.com]

All:

I've followed the recurring thread of "this Leica model vs. that Leica 
model" for over a year, and have chosen now to share my own opinion. (I 
also have some extra time on my hands since I've decided not to do a 
PAW for 2004!)

We must all admit that by being in this group, we're suckers for the 
mystique, industrial design, and quality of Leica cameras. Because 
Leica has tried so many ways through so many models to broadly appeal 
to this odd group, we must also admit there is no universally "perfect" 
iteration. That's what makes it so fun, really. In any event, I wanted 
to explain my choice... the M6 TTL, equipped with the MP finder upgrade 
(newly installed for me at Leica USA in New Jersey for $262.50). Why is 
this the perfect Leica for me?

1) It retains the simple beauty of a completely manual camera that can 
operate with no battery
2) When the battery works, the LED display of the meter logically 
reflects the direction one needs to turn the lens aperture ring or the 
(wonderfully large and comfortable!) shutter speed dial. Of course, one 
of the most overstated "mystiques" of the Leica M camera is that when 
moving the shutter speed dial in this logical direction, it is called 
"the wrong way." Hmmph!
3) With the new MP finder optical elements installed, the view is truly 
a joy, with absolutely no rangefinder patch flare. This upgrade removed 
any envy I held for the MP, with all its attendant design quirks that 
the M6 TTL had, in my opinion, successfully addressed.

I realize by sharing this opinion, reactions will vary from "here here" 
to "that's heretical!" Again, that's what makes this group so fun. For 
those who might agree with my opinion, know that the $262.50 I had to 
spend to upgrade the finder was the best Leica camera choice I've ever 
made.

Take care--

Kip Peterson
http://homepage.mac.com/kip/PAW_2003    (my "old" PAW page)

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