[Leica] Zeiss Ikon

[mark at rabinergroup.com (Mark Rabiner)]

On 10/2/04 4:33 PM, "B. D. Colen" <bdcolen@earthlink.net> typed:

> I think that's true Steve - because most people are point and shooters.
> But if you asked anyone serious enough about photography to consider
> buying a Zeiss M mount rangefinder, or a Leica M, they'd damn well know.
> 
> Of course I really don't know what started this exchange or what it's
> about - Damn drugs! - and I really don't give a rat's poopdeck who wins
> the finally shoot out along the Rein... My only point is that it's silly
> to think that some Leica magic is going to keep the brand alive with
> snakeskin body covers and puce top plates if Zeiss is offering good
> quality, more modern features, and a real price break. That's all.
> 

>snippet<

Its either a "shoot out along the Rein".....

Or a Japanese company who having bought one age old reputable but somewhat
dead German optical name has just bought another one to use on a new lens
line to fit on the same camera system. But this time has some real time
cooperation from the company which is still very much alive.
My German neighbors next door thought Leica went out of business over a
decade ago. I assured them they were still around.

And not to change the subject and dilute my finely honed point but how many
would believe you can still get a freshly made twin lens Rolleiflex?

Is Cosina making these lenses more closely on admitted Zeiss optical
formulas with a shiny nickel-like exterior candy shell or is this really a
solid Zeiss deal?
Is it just like Zeiss for Contax?
Which is Zeiss made in Japan with a few Zeiss made in Germany bones thrown
in?

All I know is the age old battle between the Zeiss and Leitz Gods has not
been rekindled.
Its just a new line of Japanese M mount lenses with a German name on it.
Not that they are not excellent lenses.
Give me some honest glass.
Glass with it's own proper name on it.


Maximilian Rabiner