> I slowly convinced myself I needed to try a Leica (was hard actually). > I don't wanna try alternatives *before* the M, if the M is nice but > doesn't justify the cost, I'll look into Voigtlander and such. > > So, fot those who indeed shot with an M, what should I look for? > Buying new is out of the question, and, let's say a lens might get > useful as well ;) > An M4 seems affordable but no meter. M6 is pricey at about 1000 euros. > > Mmm are brick and mortar dealer a more serious source for that kind of > cameras or Ebay is as good (scared of scams). > > Thank you. > > PS: Film rulez :)
I have an M3 and had an M4-2 for several years as well. There isn't much to choose between them. In your position I think the best thing to do would be buy whatever is least expensive and in decent user condition. I would not buy one of eBay because there are chop & paste jobs out there and you have no comeback if you end up with a dog. I've bought all my Leica stuff from reputable dealers, and even so I once ended up with a real pig of a lens that I eventually threw in the bin. The principal differences between the different types of M are detailed in many places, but essentially come down to the number of framelines, viewfinder magnification, film loading system, ability to use a winder, and a couple of other things. M4-2s are less highly thought of than the German-made cameras, but frankly it doesn't really matter. With M3s there's a difference between 2-stroke and 1-stroke shutter levers (they're not petrol-driven, it's what you have to do to wind the film on). 1-stroke is easier to use. I agree with whoever suggested buying a meterless M. B -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
