[Leica] BD's Retina IIIc

[pswango at att.net (pswango@att.net)]

B.D. Colen wrote:

"Keep in mind, however, before dissing the Retina, that while it
bears the Kodak name, it was manufactured in Germany, has a Schneider lens
and a Compur shutter...."

True.  Optically and mechanically it's an excellent camera.  The Xenon is 
superb, the Compur is quiet and accurate, and even the half-century-old 
meter is good down to about EV 6-7.  The biggest limitation, IMO, is the 
small, dim viewfinder.  It's not terrible but it slows you down.  For the 
dog picture I had to make a clicking noise with my tongue to get his 
attention, which lasted for about 3 seconds.  In that 3 seconds I had to 
refine focus, compose and shoot.  I took 3 shots and this one was the best. 
I was actually surprised that I got the eyes in focus, though I have to say 
the RF is darned accurate, if a bit squinty.  After using the Retina I 
pulled out my old M3, and feasted on that big bright finder!  I think the 
Retina would be an ideal hiker's camera, where you wouldn't be concerned 
with speed in low light situations.  But I'm definitely a fan of the Xenon.

Phil