[Leica] An R series question R8 - pretty ?

[frank.dernie at btinternet.com (FRANK DERNIE)]

Hi Douglas,
as an engineer I make a clear distinction between
design - which I see as fitness for purpose and
functionality, that normally done by the engineers.
And styling - the aesthetics, sometimes by engineers,
sometimes by "designers" and sometimes the management.
In a camera the functionality is far more important
IMO than the looks. Having the controls fall under my
fingers and that viewfinder make up for the hideous
(IMO) styling for me. I find the M5 ugly but it is IME
the best M camera.
I feel the same about most things. A beautifully
styled car which is overweight and/or handles badly is
of absolutely no interest to me, though I would prefer
it to look nice, mind you there are almost no cars on
the market today which appeal to me.
cheers
Frank