My 60 year old M3 is still going strong. To me, it’s all about the lenses, and my 60 year old M3 accepts all the old and new M mounts. Properly maintained, it should last another 60 years or more.
Also own the M3 (and the M6) - the M3 has the best rangefinder of all regarding brightness, avoidance of patch flare, and magnification best suited for 50 mm and longer M lenses.
Odd that my Leica M6 was made in 1984 and there is no bubbling of the finish. It has giving me years of service and I finally had a CLA done on it last year and it is now as good as new. I applaud Leica for bringing back the M6, one of the most iconic cameras they have ever made. I have no intention of buying a new one but am glad to see it is available again for those that want one.
I like the new M6, however, out of all Leica 35mm cameras I would actually go with an MA. This is my dream camera that I would never need or want to replace. I hope I will be able to get one one day ;)
I've had my MP for about 5 years now. It was and is my dream camera. Love that Leica still comes out with new film cameras. And the M6 looks great. I'd still keep the MP though. I love the black paint and the natural brassing that comes with time and use. I use and SL2 for work and the Q2 for travel but I always reach for the MP for some of my more personal work.
Fun video! Always enjoy! I have the old M6. Stt try I’ll love it 30 years later. But for 20 years now I’ve wanted the MP. I’ll get one, before they are gone.
Both excellent choices!! I think the new M6 isn't going to draw a lot of folks who already have Leica film cameras. But I'd look closely if I was in the market again! :)
I'm glad that Leica's done this and I'm happy about the resurgence of film photography in general. That said, I usually shoot 50 mm and at my age, I prefer the larger viewfinder of the M3. (I have a couple of those.)
@@karledwards Yes, it is. I find that I'm more comfortable with and find it easier to achieve reliable focus with the greater magnification of the M3 viewfinder than on later Leica rangefinders. I've experimented with using an external magnifier when shooting my 90 mm Summicron (as well as with an adapted 135 mm Hektor from my 1938 Leica iii) but I prefer the M3 viewfinder just the way it is. Interestingly, though I also have a goggles equipped 35 mm Summaron, I find that the full viewfinder window (outside of any frame lines) on the M3 is a good enough guide to shooting my 35 mm Summicron-M and that I can forgo the viewfinder completely when zone focusing my 21 mm Super-Angulon.
I may get one eventually. But who knows if film will still be available some 50 years from now. Kinda wanna grow old with it, I’m young so buying it new would be special since it would be with me for life.
I fondled the 2022 M6 this past weekend at the Leica SOHO store in NYC. (It's a store model and not for sale) And while I've shot with M6s since 2006 and will always have a love for the M6, the MP in black paint can be found for around $4,500-4,800 very lightly used. Silver MPs are around 4k or even a little under if you hunt. A new M6 will be close to 6k after taxes. I think about how a body is one thing, but Leica glass is the goal. For me, the average joe, it makes more sense to get a MP and put the difference towards some nice glass.
Sounds reasonable. As I said in the video, I think this is aimed at someone who likes the idea of an M6 but wants a brand new camera with warranty. I'm an MP guy too and have no plans to switch. :) p.s. Where are you seeing "lightly used" black paint MPs for $4500? They're next to impossible to find anywhere!
I would appreciated more if Leica was coming up with film point and shoot camera(something like revision of CM or something...) instead of figuring out clever way of utilize their M6 parts on their warehouse. But oh well.....
I'm not sure that's what they're doing with the new M6. As I said in the video... This is pretty much an MP with M6 decorations. The rewind crank maybe? But it's likely that would have had to be reinvented to fit the MP too... :)
I don’t think point and shoots would work. Leica have made cheaper cameras before like the CL, even the Leica instax. Problem is, a lot of people aren’t interested. Especially with a name associated with the legacy and rich history. Even if someone bought one, they will eventually buy an M one day. For now the cheapest Leica would be buying one off of eBay.
@@TheWutangclan1995 yah I think you are right. But what I hoped Leica to do was come up with something that can replace needs for such camera like Contax T2. Which is very niche market for sure. But it still exists. And who knows? Maybe Leica can come up with something remarkable as Q series equivalent for film that can actually bring more people into film photography.
I agree on the "glossy" black paint of the MP. It's frikkin' beautiful! :) I actually find the film advance lever on the MP more effecient if that makes any sense. Like I spend less energy fiddly with the articulated bits and just advance the frame... Probably all in my head though!
@@karledwards Yea I’m lucky to own the M10R Black Paint. Wish the paint wasn’t so durable so I could see it brass faster! The feel of the brass in your hands is great. I had the M10P black chrome for a bit and it just wasn’t the same.
@@carlosmcse Nice... Black paint is definitely the way to go! So far my MP doesn't have any brassing (unless you count the tip of the advance lever where it hits the hotshoe when closed). Only put 20 rolls through the camera so far but I'm shooting as fast as I can!!
Excellent coverage of the issues. I agree on the aesthetics of the black paint MP, which I hope to get new some time. I think the new M6 is a brilliant move of Leica for their business but it's too gaudy for me. FWIW I have an M3. Cheers.
@@Gravitys-NOT-a-force I replied to your other comment about the M-A not having a self-timer. Not sure where you go the idea that the M-A is a brand new M3 but the self timer hasn't been part of the M system for decades. I'm not sure its even on most Leica M shooters' radar TBH.
Since there is also the MP around, I rather would have liked to see a re-introduction of the M2 or M3. But I don't shoot 35mm anymore besides testing repaired cameras (I rather do medium or large format), so I don't really care.
With the now brass top plate and supposedly renewed internals I think the new M6 is like a mix of MP's and M-A's quality of life stuff (like the rewind lever, light meter and flare-resistant finder) and M3's all-metal construction at a price point just below those other 2 cameras which I think is great.
@@smith507 Nothing supposedly about it Ricardo. This is very much an MP wearing M6 clothing. But the MP was just an updated version of the M6 so it all comes around in the end. :)
Nope. What he said was that the new M6 is a replica of the original M6 and that they got 95% of the details correct. He spoke about the machinery used but gave no indication that they revived the M6 machinery. The truth is they probably use the same manufacturing process/machines for the MP but that doesn't mean they're using the same parts... The bigger issue with the vintage M6 cameras is the meter and that's just not being made anymore.
@@karledwards oh ok I kinda got it wrong but at 21'30: - so are you using the same, literally the same machines for this camera (new one) that you used for this camera back in the days (showing the old M6)? - big part of the machines that were used in 1984 are still used to make this camera (showing the new one) because you need to do parts and there are no new machines created to do things that were in the past like the cloth shutter... So my take is that it could be the contrary, the Leica MP is in part, insisting on "in part" manufactured with M6 plans and machinery. But then who am I, we need DNA samples and carbon analysis:-D
My film M is a 1978 M4-2 that I bought 11 years ago for $800 (including a viewfinder clean and service). Still working great. I had M6 and M6TTL in the past, both great cameras. But I prefer the meterless body. So ... I'm very happy to see Leica producing an M6 again, but I think if I were to buy a new film M, I'd order the M-A. I just might want to do that before they stop making it... :)
It's interesting... The M-A is also built on the same MP body. But they took out the meter and put a cover on the battery compartment before adding the leatherette. They're actually a super nice choice if you're comfortable shooting without a meter.
@@ramarren As I said in the video - I kind of see the new M6 and the M-A as being the film cameras moving forward with the MP eventually disappearing. Will be interesting to see what happens but if you're interested in an M-A and you can find one in stock then I say grab it! :)
So far I have an M3 that is overdue for a CLA, however, having the option of a brand-new film body with all the updates made throughout decades of polishing the same design, I would probably give into an M6, mainly because I'm a bit lazy to use an external meter and the quickload system is quicker than the take-up spool. Can't comment on the lever though because I've never used a Leica with one of those.
The quick load is definitely a game changer (for me anyway!). As for the lever? I've used both and they both work fine. I think the MP lever feels a bit quicker somehow. Like the force I apply is directly moving the film instead of fighting against the articulation. :)
Finally someone who doesn't cry about the price. You are right it is an MP disguised as an M6, it looks great. I am not a fan of the rapid rewind lever, I am not a war correspondent - I much prefer the rewind lever on the MP. That rewind lever was the M4 and M6 achilles heel, bang it and you needed to send your camera for service to get that film out of the camera. Anyhoo loved your take on the new M6, instant subscribed and liked!
Having owned a M4p… 2 m6’s .. I have to say the rewind on my Mp is simply the best … not gonna trade it for anything….there’s a reason Leica went back to the old school.. and it isn’t about nostalgia… it’s simply stronger and have you ever let go of an angle crank half way through a film 😂😂
I really never had a problem with the angle crank. I think a lot of people use them wrong and try to rewind with their left hand while holding the camera horizontally with their right. If you hold the camera vertical with your left hand and brace it on your leg you can rewind with your right hand and it's all super stable :)
Ya, I hate that adapter. I don't love that it just attaches with a screw that digs into the brass on the rewind knob. Plus it's pretty hideous! :) Truth be told I don't exactly have a problem with the knurled knob. But it's noticably slower than the rapid crank on the M6.
The future price and availability of film is of greater concern than bespoke cameras to accept it. The new M6 feels like marketing a V8 before a ban on the internal combustion engine.
Not sure I agree with your analogy... The film market isn't what it was even 20 years ago but it's definitely seeing an upswing with new people entering the market every day. This is definitely a high end product but I'd argue the market is there.
Weird… must have been a one off or somethibg. Even the original M6 Leica is using for all their promos ahas the plastic bumpers. Sounds like a keeper!!
Not sure what you're suggesting exactly... Are you saying this was an ill advised camera to develop because the cost of film means that people will stop shooting film? Film prices have been going up steadily for the past 20 years. But the demand for film cameras remains strong especially in the used / enthusiast market. I think this camera was made for customers that are already in the Leica camp. Less than a week after becoming available there's already a 2 year waiting list to get one. So Leica must be doing something right!
I think it is neat that Leitz has gone back and redone the M6. New electronics is great since that is usually what cannot be fixed in an old one. Besides, electronics are much better today than in 1984. The calibration of a light meter is important. The mechanics are the same, the lenses are the same. What is not to like? Now if Nikon could redo the F meter head.
I've heard quite a few people saying it's a breaking point but to be honest? I never had an issue with it when I had an M6 in the past. Still... The knurled knob is going to be a lot more sturdy so there's no looking back for me!
I bought a new M-A on the thought that it would be a brand new M3 - with warranty. What I did not consider was that the M-A doesn't have a self-timer. No one - that I've seen - that has reviewed the M-A or the MP or the new M6 mentions the missing self-timer.
Not sure where you go the idea that the M-A would be like an M3... It's actually a heck of a lot more of a camera - starting at the quick load mechanism! Self timers haven't been part of the Leica M system since what? The M4-2? So I'm not sure a lot of folks that are even thinking about the self timer when they look at these modern cameras. Are people taking selfies with anything other than their phones these days? :)
@@karledwards , my new M-A is the first Leica M camera that I've owned that hasn't had a built-in self-timer. Even my Leica lllf had a self-timer. Your comment about people taking selfies with their iPhones is weak.
@@Gravitys-NOT-a-force Not sure how that classifies as weak? My point was simple… sounds like you were being critical of the M-A because it didn’t have a self timer but Leica hasn’t had a self timer on an M body since the M4-2. No M-A bait and switch going on there. They simply don’t have self timers on any of their cams anymore :)
@@karledwards, if you look in the menu of whatever digital Leica M you have - I have the M10-R - there is a 'Drive Mode' setting or directory. Within that directory there is a self-timer setting: 2 seconds or 12 seconds. I can't imagine that all digital Leica M models don't have that self-timer feature.
@@Gravitys-NOT-a-force That's correct. But we're not talking about digital Leicas. Your original comment was specifically about the M-A and somehow by extension the MP. What's your concern exactly? Are you suggesting that Leica should bring back the self timer on the film cameras? Or are you (as stated) upset that no reviewer of the M-A has mentioned the lack of a feature that hasn't been in any Leica M film camera since 1986?
I traded my M6 3 month's ago on as new MP - last one in the store and I felt great. The M6 was having issues - coincidentally with the rewind knob which developed a crack (there is a lot more pressure on in compared with the MP). Would I rather have the M6? Hell no! The MP is perfect and here in NZ it is advertised as $NZ500 dearer than the MP so why bother? However another new film camera in 2022 with a warranty is a wonderful thing and it probably means the old M6's will always be able to be serviced.
Not sure this will affect old M6s. Like I said in the video the new M6 is just an MP so the old M6 parts aren't necessarily going to keep being made. The biggest worry with any M6 is the meter. If that goes there's no way to repair them now.
I have a silver MP and a black M6TTL so I'm covered as far as film goes. I'm not sure which one I would go for if I was going to get one again, but the MP rewind crank is a lot tougher than the M6 one (I've bent it a few times over the years!)
Ya, definitely more durable... One of the many reasons I was drawn to the MP to be honest. But now that I'm shooting regularly I kind of long for the quicker crank. LOL! Never satisfied!!
Karl Edwards you’ll get used to it; I definitely find it took my thumbs a lot of getting used to with the MP compared to my FM3a. I don’t like how long it takes to rewind, for sure, but it’s seriously durable. You can also get a SOOM Rewind crank for your MP, and it’s made in Canada!
@@StuartWeir Ya, for sure! TBH I'm already getting used to it and it's not quite as bad as it used to be. Still slower than the speed crank but not "exactly" the end of the world. :) Not a fan of the after market wind cranks. Would rather just tough it out!
No mention of the new M6 scratching film? A bunch of them do, including mine. Leica admitted there is a bad batch of pressure plates, but is not reaching out to any owners. Mine took three months to fix - on a brand new camera. I love it now that it is fixed, but this would be inexcusable on a $20 camera let alone a $5500 camera.
Thanks for your comment. This video was posted several weeks before any cameras shipped so there's no possible way I could address any issues that came up. Glad you were able to get your camera fixed though!
M7 and M-A for me, although I was eying and MP when I got the M-A. Also, when I got the M7, Tibor (RIP) at Leica Boutique Samy's LA told me what I paid for my M7 I could have gotten and MP. However, he also said the M7 was HIS favorite M. The reading of DX coding and the advantage of Aperture Priority was killer. However, recently - like yesterday - the bottom plate was ajar on my M& and the camera completely shut-down. Not even able to shoot at 1/125 and 1/60... made me rethink avoiding the M6 and MP. Now, maybe I can justify getting an M6 and releasing the M7 to the wild. Maybe. I have never used the MP or M6 meter. Not sure if I would really like it... the M7 (when it works) is just perfect. Otherwise, I can just use my M-A!
It’s a dilemma for sure. People are hard on the M7 but I always liked the way they felt while shooting… this being said I’m super happy with the MP. No aperture priority but you get used to that pretty quick I find…
Nothing comes close to my Linhof Master Technica that I have shot fashion and portraiture for over 25 years! Clients are astounded by the quality and the dimension that is obtained over 35 mm & 120 films.
Not sure what issues you’re referring to? These are no the same camera as an m6 with different internals - it’s the same camera as the MP with different style and rewind knob. The MP is a proven workhorse of a camera so…
One big advantage of my MP is that it does not have the red dot. Leica stopped being an innovative company decades ago, when electronics were incorporated. This was really beyond them. I know from experience and got rid of my Leicas with electronics. My MP has a very good, but very outdated shutter. A mere 1/1000. When measured, this is probably about 1/750 for most Leicas. A flash sync of 1/50 was standard for the 1960s. Perhaps the absurd price is also caused by quality checks. But they check quality of yesteryear's technology. So I am sure to get what I could expect a long time ago. The coated viewfinder is great. But the choice of lenses is very limited. The frame lines for 135 mm are so compressed that any picture is guess work. Any fast and or longer lens with a hood will block part of the view, thereby impeding the advantage that you can see beyond the frame lines . My MP is a wonderful camera, but if I had to limit myself to only 1 camera, it would go. With regret.
I actually mention the lack of forward facing branding in the video. Definitely a plus for the MP in my books. If you suspect your shutter speed is off then you should just send it in for a CLA! It's an all mechanical system that can be tuned and retuned. You'll get it back good as new. For lens choices? Not sure what else you'd need for rangefinder primes. You're not going to get zooms on a camera like this but the focal lengths that are available are pretty much perfectly suited to this style of camera and the way people use them. Sure the viewfinder isn't optimized for 135mm but that's not really what a rangefinder camera is all about. And most fast Leica lenses have vented hoods now that allow you see through the hood so that's really not an issue. The cloth shutter may be limited to 1/1000s but it's dead quiet and reliable. I personally never have the need to shoot above that but I'm a street guy. 1/1000 is more than enough to freeze the action. The flash sync speed is tied to the horizontal shutter mechanism so the a reason it's still 1/50 is because they're still using that shutter. TBH, the things you list as a negatives are part of the reason a lot people shoot with these cameras to start with. You stated that the price was absurd but I'd disagree. It's definitely expensive but not out of line with the build qaulity and specific performance of each camera. It's not clear to me why you'd choose something like and MP if your needs are outside the scope of what this camera was intended to provide...
Aesthetically I prefer the knurled crank over the angled one so my vote would go to a new MP or MA if I had money. I’m not a pro shooter so longer rewind doesn’t bother me. Keeping my M2 for film and maybe upgrade later to a MA. The new M6 is a non starter for me for aesthetic reasons like the angled rewind knob and obnoxious branding.
There are a few options for sure… the quick rewind mechanism isn’t just for pros though. For me as a street photographer any time the camera is without film is a potential missed shot so it makes a bit of a difference. Won’t be trading in my MP though!!
It’s interesting but it seems the reissue came to be because of the popularity of the vintage M6 bodies. They’ll probably retain their value for sure. But like I said I. The video this is a good choice for someone who likes the M6 but prefers to get a new camera…
Not crazy about it. I like MP’s design more. But nothing beats M10-R when it comes to best Leica digital RF with preservation of the classic Leica design language.
Not at all tempted. Have the M6 TTL black version. Has been a book end for years . . . albeit a really sexy one. The Nikon D3 changed everything for me when it came out. It's been solely digital for me ever since - with pro Nikons. Though I have been considering getting an M10 24mp variant (M10, M10-P, M10-D, etc.) recently. Too bad they aren't available new anymore. Hmmm, perhaps I should start thinking about selling the M6 (in excellent condition, only used very lightly for the one year I had it before the D3 came out). But I do wish M6 shooters (and other M film cameras) the very best. I only have the greatest respect for them - certainly the ones that have been shooting with them for many years.
It’s cool Leica is making a new M6, but I don’t think it’s got to be $5,300. You could get an original camera CLA’d with a lens and save $1,000. I just don’t see the value proposition here
It's new and comes with a full warranty. That's the only advantage really. That and the fact that they no longer make parts for the meter in the vintage M6 cameras so if the meter goes they can no longer be fixed...
The video is beautiful, but it is unreasonable for a camera whose price is between 3 and 6 thousand dollars, and it is a film camera. At this time, films are almost missing from the market, and it has become rare to find a studio for printing and developing films. The price is very high.
Thanks for the comment.... Don't agree with your assessment of film though. There's plenty of interest in the medium and entire enthusiast market supporting it... It's not as popular as digital for sure but there's no shortage of interest there. Yup, they're expensive cameras. No doubt about it.
Well, I like the m6, but I’m very disappointed from the new version. It’s just a MP in a new dress. There were a lot of rumors about a cheaper film M. Ok, not a cheap M, but why not a M6.2 with a 1/2000 shutter speed, 1/125 sync speed, illuminated frame lines for bad light situations, …. There are tons of upgrades, what we get, nothing. Leica is just looking for easy money. That’s not my way. I own a MP and a M2, there’s no need to change anything.
Yup. This is the argument that I make in the video. But this actually doesn’t bother me at all. I kind of see the M6 replacing the MP in the lineup as the film camera with a meter. The M-A will remain as the “heritage” model with a nod to the past. If you think of it in those terms, it actually makes sense to use the MP framework rather than retooling everything. I’m curious though… if you already own an MP how is another camera based in the MP an issue. Leica never claimed they were reinventing the wheel on this one. This is a camera for fans of the M6 that want a new camera with a full warranty. Makes sense from my POV!
THANK YOU. FINALLY(!!!) someone with sense sees through this ruse. It IS a Leica MP "M6". I'm good with my 2020 silver Leica MP. If I EVER had additional dough to waste on another film body, I'd grab a black MA. I don't like the red dot.
The way you talk about it, yes it is hot and I want one, but ... I am living in Canada and I can afford nothing! Wages don't go up as the rest of the prices, I'll be happy if I still have my house when all these nonsense settles down!
@@streets28mm Sure... But there's no duty on cameras so you'll only need to pay tax coming in. The M6 is selling for 7285 CAD + tax and canadian retailers so you're saving almost 800 CAD. :)
A sad new camera! I know prices for used, oops! sorry, 'pre-owned 'are crazy. I own a M6TTL. The frame lines suck! I have had flare but blocking the other window gets rid of it. Nostalgia is wonderful. Some mentioned a M3. Leica could never build a new M3. They lack the skilled workers, the parts, the machines to build. My M3 55 years in my service! It started badly QC! M3 arrived without a working RF! Parts not there! 3 signatures of final QC. 1967. I hope the new M6, sells well. Me, after many years is slowly stopping to use film.
Yeah, I don't get it Karl. Neither the MP or M-A is in stock at B&H. So, Wetzlar introduces another analog camera? Pure aesthetics and an attempt to cash in on young film shooters pining for an M6. No one seems to mention Leica's fixation on the diminutive shutter speed dial, which is a legacy to the clip-on meter. Stupid IMO. Also, why not reintroduce this model with the current design vernacular and feature a big M6 on the front? Like the M7. They did it for a time before the M6TTL.
Leicas are rarely in stock at B&H... Always best to go directly to the Leica Store for any chance of finding a camera in stock. That's how I got my MP a couple months back. I actually don't have a problem with the smaller shutter dial. Seems to me to be something designed to be adjusted before you bring the camera to your eye so I've never had a problem with it. As for the design choices... Well, they introduced a replica of the original M6 from 1984 and got the look pretty close. :)
@@karledwards thanks, other than the rewind crank, one might as well invest in an MP (as you've noted). They're just re-introducing a discontinued product with a couple of minor internal upgrades. Something, anything, to make it stand out from the original would have been welcome, like the "Big M6", M7, M8, M9, and M (240) all which sported the model number sans Leica.
@@jklphoto I think that's just the point to be honest. They saw a huge demand in the used market for the M6. And it was easy enough to take the MP body and create a replica of the M6. It's modern and usable but still tickles that retro M6 itch.
Yup and Leica fixed them under warranty. There will be manufacturing issues with any new camera release... It's how the company handles the repairs that matters!
There was no improvement, they just sold their past reputation. Dont have development costs There is only the cost of assembly and materials. But look at the selling price. lol
Not sure what you're saying exactly... This is a hand made instrument so the cost is going to reflect that fact. Also the new M6 is actually less than the original sold for in 1992 when adjusted for inflation. I think it's a fair price for what it is. These cameras are definitely expensive. But they're not overpriced.
The fact that you'd have to spend another $60 to bolt something as ugly as an after market rapid rewind knob to the MP never sat well with me. But then I guess if I really cared about speed I wouldn't buy a leica.
Not a fan of the extra rewind crank for the MP. But I'm not sure I agree with you about speed on the Leicas. I'm a street photographer and speed is critical for my workflow. I can zone focus and get the shot quicker with the MP than any modern digicam I've used. :P
@@karledwards Right! But then if speed were truly a concern, choosing a camera that you don't have to disassemble to change film would be a paramount concern. That said, all the other Leica positives far outweigh the rewind and film changing bugaboos.
I bought 2 x M-A’s brand new and they both arrived with crazy dust on the viewfinders sent them back for a swap, 2 months later I get a replacement that was just as bad. Refunded €16k worth of an order and the ignorant arrogant bastards didn’t even respond to my 4-5 email complaints. Leica easily has the worst service and qc on the whole spectrum of camera manufacturers . The Japanese wouldn’t have let that happen. I will never buy or even recommend Leica to no one. I heard the horror stories of the service times and the shot customer service and still after 15yrs of waiting finally was going to buy 2 analogue bodies to keep and service over time and they couldn’t even get them into my hands new without flaws from the get go. Absolutely ridiculous with their prices and their double sign offs in the box.. blind German chimpanzees on the technician line it seems. And people spending 8.5k on digital M’s and having issues and having to wait for months. Completely unacceptable. I commented on another post on Discuss. A guy sent his 11k noctilux that was 3 months old due to sticking aperture blades… it came back with oil all over the blades and ruined.. they are f@&kin retards working there.
Not sure how you see this as a scam. It's just another camera being sold by a company that makes cameras. Leica isn't making any false claims about the new M6 and for anyone interested in a film Leica it's a solid choice. Might not be the camera for everyone. But that doesn't mean it's NOT the camera for ANYONE. :)
I would instead buy Nikon F6 than this overpriced, Leica M6 with a huge marketing budget. I do not even wanna know how much they spent on marketing, probably more than on developing the camera.
But the F6 is an SLR so it really doesn't compare the rangefinder shooting experience of a Leica M. I'd also argue that while Leica cameras are definitely expensive they're not "overpriced." Might not be the right camera for you but that doesn't mean the company was somehow misguided when it came time to determine the price of their product ;)
@@Grumpygrumpo I just don't agree with you. Leica is simply bringing its latest product to market. Not sure how that is leaning on branding or history. Sounds more like a judgment individuals are making rather than a company perspective. :)
Not sure I agree Rikard... Leica saw growing demand in the market for the M6 and created a product to meet that demand. It's just capitalism at play :)
they must have spent a shit ton on marketing because actual photographers i talked to do not give a shit about this besides thinking maybe film will be cheaper again.
@@Grumpygrumpo I honestly don't know what Leica's marketing budget is for the new camera but it's clear that the photographers you "talked to" aren't part of their target market. :)
@@karledwards Haha yes, and capitalism is stupid;). I’m not against Leica. Been shooting Leica since before it was cool. When film was dirt cheap. I bought my M6 for $600 in near mint condition like 13 years ago. I just don’t know how I feel about Leica pushing the prices even more.. Young people think they need a Leica and take large loans to buy a camera. The hype isn’t healthy. Photography is no longer about pictures, it’s all about gear..
@@rikardlandberg The new M6 is actually selling for less than an M6 classic in 1992 (once prices are adjusted for inflation). So Leica isn't actually pushing prices at all - they're just keeping up with the costs involved in producing these cameras. Not sure how many young people are taking out large loans to buy Leica though... My sense is younger shooters are buying used legacy models (m4, m4-2, m4-p) when they can then upgrading at some point if the desire is still there. It's unclear where the idea of hype is coming from... People are talking about the new M6 because it's an interesting release. Nobody has sent out the carnival barkers on this one! :)
My 60 year old M3 is still going strong. To me, it’s all about the lenses, and my 60 year old M3 accepts all the old and new M mounts. Properly maintained, it should last another 60 years or more.
Definitely! These cameras take a licking and keep on ticking!
I love my M3 and would kill for an M3 reboot 😂😂😂
@@Stop4MotionMakr They did make an MP-3 a while back and dressed up the MP to look like an M3 so I wouldn't rule it out!
My M3 is 68 and still going strong. Love the .9 VF too. Only prob is the take up spool.
Also own the M3 (and the M6) - the M3 has the best rangefinder of all regarding brightness, avoidance of patch flare, and magnification best suited for 50 mm and longer M lenses.
Odd that my Leica M6 was made in 1984 and there is no bubbling of the finish. It has giving me years of service and I finally had a CLA done on it last year and it is now as good as new. I applaud Leica for bringing back the M6, one of the most iconic cameras they have ever made. I have no intention of buying a new one but am glad to see it is available again for those that want one.
Agreed! The finish seems to be affected by a very specific set of atmospheric conditions. Glad to hear yours is problem free!
I like the new M6, however, out of all Leica 35mm cameras I would actually go with an MA. This is my dream camera that I would never need or want to replace. I hope I will be able to get one one day ;)
I've had my MP for about 5 years now. It was and is my dream camera. Love that Leica still comes out with new film cameras. And the M6 looks great. I'd still keep the MP though. I love the black paint and the natural brassing that comes with time and use. I use and SL2 for work and the Q2 for travel but I always reach for the MP for some of my more personal work.
I hope they bring back the 0.58x VF option for those of us who wear spectacles. :-)
Fun video! Always enjoy! I have the old M6. Stt try I’ll love it 30 years later. But for 20 years now I’ve wanted the MP. I’ll get one, before they are gone.
Fantastic overview! I love how they added the arrows! I wonder if a special edition down the road will be silver?
I'd put money on that happening! :D
The rewind got my attention right away. I own an MP and a classic M6 and I find myself grabbing the M6 mainly because of the rewind lever!
It's definitely handy!
I’ll stick with my 26 year old M6 (silver finish) with a matching Summicron 50mm lens. It’s the photographer that takes the photo ! Thanks, Rick….. 📷
I have an M7 and M 10P. I’m sorted.
Both excellent choices!!
I think the new M6 isn't going to draw a lot of folks who already have Leica film cameras. But I'd look closely if I was in the market again! :)
Same I have an MP and M10 Monochrom. I’m good to go. Now my real lust has turned to lenses.
I'm glad that Leica's done this and I'm happy about the resurgence of film photography in general. That said, I usually shoot 50 mm and at my age, I prefer the larger viewfinder of the M3. (I have a couple of those.)
Not sure the viewfinder is larger but it definitely has a different magnification... Is that what you're referring to?
@@karledwards Yes, it is. I find that I'm more comfortable with and find it easier to achieve reliable focus with the greater magnification of the M3 viewfinder than on later Leica rangefinders. I've experimented with using an external magnifier when shooting my 90 mm Summicron (as well as with an adapted 135 mm Hektor from my 1938 Leica iii) but I prefer the M3 viewfinder just the way it is.
Interestingly, though I also have a goggles equipped 35 mm Summaron, I find that the full viewfinder window (outside of any frame lines) on the M3 is a good enough guide to shooting my 35 mm Summicron-M and that I can forgo the viewfinder completely when zone focusing my 21 mm Super-Angulon.
I may get one eventually. But who knows if film will still be available some 50 years from now. Kinda wanna grow old with it, I’m young so buying it new would be special since it would be with me for life.
That's a tough one... For me, I'm enjoying shooting film while I can!
I love my MP. I even have the calluses on my finger tips from rewinding the film over all these years.
Hehehe. “Things only a Leica owner would understand.” :D
I fondled the 2022 M6 this past weekend at the Leica SOHO store in NYC. (It's a store model and not for sale) And while I've shot with M6s since 2006 and will always have a love for the M6, the MP in black paint can be found for around $4,500-4,800 very lightly used. Silver MPs are around 4k or even a little under if you hunt. A new M6 will be close to 6k after taxes. I think about how a body is one thing, but Leica glass is the goal. For me, the average joe, it makes more sense to get a MP and put the difference towards some nice glass.
Sounds reasonable. As I said in the video, I think this is aimed at someone who likes the idea of an M6 but wants a brand new camera with warranty. I'm an MP guy too and have no plans to switch. :)
p.s. Where are you seeing "lightly used" black paint MPs for $4500? They're next to impossible to find anywhere!
zinc bubbling was only an issue with the early models. Brass bottom also for later models.
I have an M6 TTL. For me, the shutter dial direction makes sense. That said, I’d trade it in for an MP, but not a new M6.
I would appreciated more if Leica was coming up with film point and shoot camera(something like revision of CM or something...) instead of figuring out clever way of utilize their M6 parts on their warehouse. But oh well.....
I'm not sure that's what they're doing with the new M6. As I said in the video... This is pretty much an MP with M6 decorations. The rewind crank maybe? But it's likely that would have had to be reinvented to fit the MP too... :)
I don’t think point and shoots would work. Leica have made cheaper cameras before like the CL, even the Leica instax. Problem is, a lot of people aren’t interested. Especially with a name associated with the legacy and rich history. Even if someone bought one, they will eventually buy an M one day. For now the cheapest Leica would be buying one off of eBay.
@@TheWutangclan1995 yah I think you are right. But what I hoped Leica to do was come up with something that can replace needs for such camera like Contax T2. Which is very niche market for sure. But it still exists. And who knows? Maybe Leica can come up with something remarkable as Q series equivalent for film that can actually bring more people into film photography.
Our m4 will be tomorrow in my home :3 I hope finally I will own good working camera. Wish me luck and i wish Luck to You Sir!
Black Paint FTW. I also like the film advance lever better on the MP.
I agree on the "glossy" black paint of the MP. It's frikkin' beautiful! :)
I actually find the film advance lever on the MP more effecient if that makes any sense. Like I spend less energy fiddly with the articulated bits and just advance the frame... Probably all in my head though!
@@karledwards Yea I’m lucky to own the M10R Black Paint. Wish the paint wasn’t so durable so I could see it brass faster! The feel of the brass in your hands is great. I had the M10P black chrome for a bit and it just wasn’t the same.
@@carlosmcse Nice... Black paint is definitely the way to go! So far my MP doesn't have any brassing (unless you count the tip of the advance lever where it hits the hotshoe when closed). Only put 20 rolls through the camera so far but I'm shooting as fast as I can!!
@@karledwards sandpaper might help ;)
@@wylie_photo NEVAHHH!!!! LOLOL!
Excellent coverage of the issues. I agree on the aesthetics of the black paint MP, which I hope to get new some time. I think the new M6 is a brilliant move of Leica for their business but it's too gaudy for me. FWIW I have an M3. Cheers.
The M3 is a popular choice for sure!
I bought a new M-A thinking that I was buying a brand new M3. But the M3 has a self-timer. The M-A doesn't. That's a big deal!
@@Gravitys-NOT-a-force I replied to your other comment about the M-A not having a self-timer. Not sure where you go the idea that the M-A is a brand new M3 but the self timer hasn't been part of the M system for decades. I'm not sure its even on most Leica M shooters' radar TBH.
Since there is also the MP around, I rather would have liked to see a re-introduction of the M2 or M3. But I don't shoot 35mm anymore besides testing repaired cameras (I rather do medium or large format), so I don't really care.
I'm pretty sure the M-A is at least referencing the M2... Not officially of course but definitely in the same vein!
With the now brass top plate and supposedly renewed internals I think the new M6 is like a mix of MP's and M-A's quality of life stuff (like the rewind lever, light meter and flare-resistant finder) and M3's all-metal construction at a price point just below those other 2 cameras which I think is great.
@@smith507 Nothing supposedly about it Ricardo. This is very much an MP wearing M6 clothing. But the MP was just an updated version of the M6 so it all comes around in the end. :)
In the interview you showed the marketing director said they brought back the M6 machinery to live if I'm not mistaken.
Nope. What he said was that the new M6 is a replica of the original M6 and that they got 95% of the details correct. He spoke about the machinery used but gave no indication that they revived the M6 machinery. The truth is they probably use the same manufacturing process/machines for the MP but that doesn't mean they're using the same parts... The bigger issue with the vintage M6 cameras is the meter and that's just not being made anymore.
@@karledwards oh ok I kinda got it wrong but at 21'30:
- so are you using the same, literally the same machines for this camera (new one) that you used for this camera back in the days (showing the old M6)?
- big part of the machines that were used in 1984 are still used to make this camera (showing the new one) because you need to do parts and there are no new machines created to do things that were in the past like the cloth shutter...
So my take is that it could be the contrary, the Leica MP is in part, insisting on "in part" manufactured with M6 plans and machinery. But then who am I, we need DNA samples and carbon analysis:-D
Just for that reason alone that Karl did not mention price I liked this video :))
Thanks Arturas! To be honest, it didn't even occur to me to mention the price... So many other things to talk about! :)
My film M is a 1978 M4-2 that I bought 11 years ago for $800 (including a viewfinder clean and service). Still working great. I had M6 and M6TTL in the past, both great cameras. But I prefer the meterless body. So ... I'm very happy to see Leica producing an M6 again, but I think if I were to buy a new film M, I'd order the M-A. I just might want to do that before they stop making it... :)
It's interesting... The M-A is also built on the same MP body. But they took out the meter and put a cover on the battery compartment before adding the leatherette. They're actually a super nice choice if you're comfortable shooting without a meter.
@@karledwards That's what I figured, thanks for confirming. 🙂 Yeah, I should probably get one before they get discontinued...
@@ramarren As I said in the video - I kind of see the new M6 and the M-A as being the film cameras moving forward with the MP eventually disappearing. Will be interesting to see what happens but if you're interested in an M-A and you can find one in stock then I say grab it! :)
So far I have an M3 that is overdue for a CLA, however, having the option of a brand-new film body with all the updates made throughout decades of polishing the same design, I would probably give into an M6, mainly because I'm a bit lazy to use an external meter and the quickload system is quicker than the take-up spool. Can't comment on the lever though because I've never used a Leica with one of those.
The quick load is definitely a game changer (for me anyway!). As for the lever? I've used both and they both work fine. I think the MP lever feels a bit quicker somehow. Like the force I apply is directly moving the film instead of fighting against the articulation. :)
Finally someone who doesn't cry about the price. You are right it is an MP disguised as an M6, it looks great. I am not a fan of the rapid rewind lever, I am not a war correspondent - I much prefer the rewind lever on the MP. That rewind lever was the M4 and M6 achilles heel, bang it and you needed to send your camera for service to get that film out of the camera. Anyhoo loved your take on the new M6, instant subscribed and liked!
Thansk Patrick! Welcome aboard!!
Bring back Black M2’s 👍 Nice Video, keep well & stay safe 👍🇬🇧
I have two "old" M6S; nothing will ever substitute them.
Having owned a M4p… 2 m6’s .. I have to say the rewind on my Mp is simply the best … not gonna trade it for anything….there’s a reason Leica went back to the old school.. and it isn’t about nostalgia… it’s simply stronger and have you ever let go of an angle crank half way through a film 😂😂
I really never had a problem with the angle crank. I think a lot of people use them wrong and try to rewind with their left hand while holding the camera horizontally with their right. If you hold the camera vertical with your left hand and brace it on your leg you can rewind with your right hand and it's all super stable :)
@@karledwards so basically a yoga move …. 😂
have you thought about getting the rewind adapter to make rewinding faster on the mp?
Ya, I hate that adapter. I don't love that it just attaches with a screw that digs into the brass on the rewind knob. Plus it's pretty hideous! :)
Truth be told I don't exactly have a problem with the knurled knob. But it's noticably slower than the rapid crank on the M6.
The future price and availability of film is of greater concern than bespoke cameras to accept it. The new M6 feels like marketing a V8 before a ban on the internal combustion engine.
Not sure I agree with your analogy... The film market isn't what it was even 20 years ago but it's definitely seeing an upswing with new people entering the market every day. This is definitely a high end product but I'd argue the market is there.
Actually my Wetlzar M6 doesn’t have the plastic ear lugs too. That’s kinda the reason I bought it too.
Weird… must have been a one off or somethibg. Even the original M6 Leica is using for all their promos ahas the plastic bumpers. Sounds like a keeper!!
Given the spiralling price of film it makes sense that a film camera costing around FIVE THOUSAND pounds is released.
Not sure what you're suggesting exactly...
Are you saying this was an ill advised camera to develop because the cost of film means that people will stop shooting film? Film prices have been going up steadily for the past 20 years. But the demand for film cameras remains strong especially in the used / enthusiast market.
I think this camera was made for customers that are already in the Leica camp. Less than a week after becoming available there's already a 2 year waiting list to get one. So Leica must be doing something right!
It's a good camera. If I was to get another film camera I'd probably go for the MA.
Also a good choice! Both built on the same mp framework so u can’t go wrong!!
I think it is neat that Leitz has gone back and redone the M6. New electronics is great since that is usually what cannot be fixed in an old one. Besides, electronics are much better today than in 1984. The calibration of a light meter is important. The mechanics are the same, the lenses are the same. What is not to like? Now if Nikon could redo the F meter head.
Agreed on all points!
New M6 is beautiful but I'm terrified of that rewind knob.. My MP and my old M3 are sublime.
I've heard quite a few people saying it's a breaking point but to be honest? I never had an issue with it when I had an M6 in the past. Still... The knurled knob is going to be a lot more sturdy so there's no looking back for me!
I have a silver MP and have been thinking about getting black one, so now I'm thinking new M6 instead.
Do it!!
I bought a new M-A on the thought that it would be a brand new M3 - with warranty. What I did not consider was that the M-A doesn't have a self-timer. No one - that I've seen - that has reviewed the M-A or the MP or the new M6 mentions the missing self-timer.
Not sure where you go the idea that the M-A would be like an M3... It's actually a heck of a lot more of a camera - starting at the quick load mechanism!
Self timers haven't been part of the Leica M system since what? The M4-2? So I'm not sure a lot of folks that are even thinking about the self timer when they look at these modern cameras. Are people taking selfies with anything other than their phones these days? :)
@@karledwards , my new M-A is the first Leica M camera that I've owned that hasn't had a built-in self-timer. Even my Leica lllf had a self-timer. Your comment about people taking selfies with their iPhones is weak.
@@Gravitys-NOT-a-force Not sure how that classifies as weak? My point was simple… sounds like you were being critical of the M-A because it didn’t have a self timer but Leica hasn’t had a self timer on an M body since the M4-2. No M-A bait and switch going on there. They simply don’t have self timers on any of their cams anymore :)
@@karledwards, if you look in the menu of whatever digital Leica M you have - I have the M10-R - there is a 'Drive Mode' setting or directory. Within that directory there is a self-timer setting: 2 seconds or 12 seconds. I can't imagine that all digital Leica M models don't have that self-timer feature.
@@Gravitys-NOT-a-force That's correct. But we're not talking about digital Leicas. Your original comment was specifically about the M-A and somehow by extension the MP.
What's your concern exactly? Are you suggesting that Leica should bring back the self timer on the film cameras? Or are you (as stated) upset that no reviewer of the M-A has mentioned the lack of a feature that hasn't been in any Leica M film camera since 1986?
I love my M4-P 👏📷🍀
I traded my M6 3 month's ago on as new MP - last one in the store and I felt great. The M6 was having issues - coincidentally with the rewind knob which developed a crack (there is a lot more pressure on in compared with the MP). Would I rather have the M6? Hell no! The MP is perfect and here in NZ it is advertised as $NZ500 dearer than the MP so why bother? However another new film camera in 2022 with a warranty is a wonderful thing and it probably means the old M6's will always be able to be serviced.
Not sure this will affect old M6s. Like I said in the video the new M6 is just an MP so the old M6 parts aren't necessarily going to keep being made. The biggest worry with any M6 is the meter. If that goes there's no way to repair them now.
@@arkphotog My video actually claims the opposite. This is clearly an MP that’s styled to look like an M6. And I still like it! :)
I have a silver MP and a black M6TTL so I'm covered as far as film goes. I'm not sure which one I would go for if I was going to get one again, but the MP rewind crank is a lot tougher than the M6 one (I've bent it a few times over the years!)
Ya, definitely more durable... One of the many reasons I was drawn to the MP to be honest. But now that I'm shooting regularly I kind of long for the quicker crank. LOL! Never satisfied!!
Karl Edwards you’ll get used to it; I definitely find it took my thumbs a lot of getting used to with the MP compared to my FM3a. I don’t like how long it takes to rewind, for sure, but it’s seriously durable. You can also get a SOOM Rewind crank for your MP, and it’s made in Canada!
@@StuartWeir Ya, for sure! TBH I'm already getting used to it and it's not quite as bad as it used to be. Still slower than the speed crank but not "exactly" the end of the world. :)
Not a fan of the after market wind cranks. Would rather just tough it out!
No mention of the new M6 scratching film? A bunch of them do, including mine. Leica admitted there is a bad batch of pressure plates, but is not reaching out to any owners. Mine took three months to fix - on a brand new camera. I love it now that it is fixed, but this would be inexcusable on a $20 camera let alone a $5500 camera.
Thanks for your comment. This video was posted several weeks before any cameras shipped so there's no possible way I could address any issues that came up. Glad you were able to get your camera fixed though!
M7 and M-A for me, although I was eying and MP when I got the M-A. Also, when I got the M7, Tibor (RIP) at Leica Boutique Samy's LA told me what I paid for my M7 I could have gotten and MP. However, he also said the M7 was HIS favorite M. The reading of DX coding and the advantage of Aperture Priority was killer. However, recently - like yesterday - the bottom plate was ajar on my M& and the camera completely shut-down. Not even able to shoot at 1/125 and 1/60... made me rethink avoiding the M6 and MP. Now, maybe I can justify getting an M6 and releasing the M7 to the wild. Maybe. I have never used the MP or M6 meter. Not sure if I would really like it... the M7 (when it works) is just perfect. Otherwise, I can just use my M-A!
It’s a dilemma for sure. People are hard on the M7 but I always liked the way they felt while shooting… this being said I’m super happy with the MP. No aperture priority but you get used to that pretty quick I find…
I would looove one of these new M6s... if they omitted the forward facing LEICA M6 engraving :-/
Nothing comes close to my Linhof Master Technica that I have shot fashion and portraiture for over 25 years! Clients are astounded by the quality and the dimension that is obtained over 35 mm & 120 films.
That's a 4x5 camera! Small format cameras have still their place - just ask Bresson. Or Winnogrand. Or Rober Frank. Or... Well, you get the idea.
@@karledwards Obviously!
Panda M6 For me.. Glad the new one is only black so it keeps mine more unique and... a higher price on it haha
YASS! Panda FTW!!
I hear they have issues... same camera but different internals. ..will get one when move to Portugal wait till they sort out the issues/
Not sure what issues you’re referring to? These are no the same camera as an m6 with different internals - it’s the same camera as the MP with different style and rewind knob. The MP is a proven workhorse of a camera so…
01:03 That makes two of us... that makes... painfully two of us. :D
LOL!
One big advantage of my MP is that it does not have the red dot. Leica stopped being an innovative company decades ago, when electronics were incorporated. This was really beyond them. I know from experience and got rid of my Leicas with electronics. My MP has a very good, but very outdated shutter. A mere 1/1000. When measured, this is probably about 1/750 for most Leicas. A flash sync of 1/50 was standard for the 1960s. Perhaps the absurd price is also caused by quality checks. But they check quality of yesteryear's technology. So I am sure to get what I could expect a long time ago.
The coated viewfinder is great. But the choice of lenses is very limited. The frame lines for 135 mm are so compressed that any picture is guess work. Any fast and or longer lens with a hood will block part of the view, thereby impeding the advantage that you can see beyond the frame lines . My MP is a wonderful camera, but if I had to limit myself to only 1 camera, it would go. With regret.
I actually mention the lack of forward facing branding in the video. Definitely a plus for the MP in my books.
If you suspect your shutter speed is off then you should just send it in for a CLA! It's an all mechanical system that can be tuned and retuned. You'll get it back good as new.
For lens choices? Not sure what else you'd need for rangefinder primes. You're not going to get zooms on a camera like this but the focal lengths that are available are pretty much perfectly suited to this style of camera and the way people use them. Sure the viewfinder isn't optimized for 135mm but that's not really what a rangefinder camera is all about.
And most fast Leica lenses have vented hoods now that allow you see through the hood so that's really not an issue.
The cloth shutter may be limited to 1/1000s but it's dead quiet and reliable. I personally never have the need to shoot above that but I'm a street guy. 1/1000 is more than enough to freeze the action.
The flash sync speed is tied to the horizontal shutter mechanism so the a reason it's still 1/50 is because they're still using that shutter.
TBH, the things you list as a negatives are part of the reason a lot people shoot with these cameras to start with. You stated that the price was absurd but I'd disagree. It's definitely expensive but not out of line with the build qaulity and specific performance of each camera.
It's not clear to me why you'd choose something like and MP if your needs are outside the scope of what this camera was intended to provide...
Aesthetically I prefer the knurled crank over the angled one so my vote would go to a new MP or MA if I had money. I’m not a pro shooter so longer rewind doesn’t bother me. Keeping my M2 for film and maybe upgrade later to a MA. The new M6 is a non starter for me for aesthetic reasons like the angled rewind knob and obnoxious branding.
There are a few options for sure… the quick rewind mechanism isn’t just for pros though. For me as a street photographer any time the camera is without film is a potential missed shot so it makes a bit of a difference. Won’t be trading in my MP though!!
Seiko GMT spotted at 2:07...
The original Leica M6 will probably go up in price due to popularity and association with this new reissue.
It’s interesting but it seems the reissue came to be because of the popularity of the vintage M6 bodies. They’ll probably retain their value for sure. But like I said I. The video this is a good choice for someone who likes the M6 but prefers to get a new camera…
Imagine if ALL film manufacturers stopped making film. 😮
M6 liiivesss....A-G-A-I-N...!
Even if it's an M6 in name alone. Pretty sweet looking camera!!
It’s the MP for me.
Me too! Love my MP!!
Not crazy about it. I like MP’s design more. But nothing beats M10-R when it comes to best Leica digital RF with preservation of the classic Leica design language.
Apples and oranges though... :)
If I did not already own a classic titanium M6 with 35mm f/1.4, 21mm f/1.4, and 90mm f/2 lenses, I would buy a new M6 or a new MP.
The titanium M6 is gorgeous! Nice find!
Just an MP dressed in an M6 appearance or clothing in my opinion. 😊
Not at all tempted. Have the M6 TTL black version. Has been a book end for years . . . albeit a really sexy one. The Nikon D3 changed everything for me when it came out. It's been solely digital for me ever since - with pro Nikons. Though I have been considering getting an M10 24mp variant (M10, M10-P, M10-D, etc.) recently. Too bad they aren't available new anymore. Hmmm, perhaps I should start thinking about selling the M6 (in excellent condition, only used very lightly for the one year I had it before the D3 came out). But I do wish M6 shooters (and other M film cameras) the very best. I only have the greatest respect for them - certainly the ones that have been shooting with them for many years.
It’s cool Leica is making a new M6, but I don’t think it’s got to be $5,300. You could get an original camera CLA’d with a lens and save $1,000. I just don’t see the value proposition here
It's new and comes with a full warranty. That's the only advantage really. That and the fact that they no longer make parts for the meter in the vintage M6 cameras so if the meter goes they can no longer be fixed...
No doubt the M3 is and was the best Leica ever made. I have the M6, M10, M11 the M3 was the king.
Was definitely a good camera. But there's something to be said for the modern loading and better viewfinders of the m6, m7, mp, m-a, m6 etc... :)
The video is beautiful, but it is unreasonable for a camera whose price is between 3 and 6 thousand dollars, and it is a film camera. At this time, films are almost missing from the market, and it has become rare to find a studio for printing and developing films. The price is very high.
Thanks for the comment.... Don't agree with your assessment of film though. There's plenty of interest in the medium and entire enthusiast market supporting it... It's not as popular as digital for sure but there's no shortage of interest there.
Yup, they're expensive cameras. No doubt about it.
So HOT no AI!
Well, I like the m6, but I’m very disappointed from the new version. It’s just a MP in a new dress. There were a lot of rumors about a cheaper film M. Ok, not a cheap M, but why not a M6.2 with a 1/2000 shutter speed, 1/125 sync speed, illuminated frame lines for bad light situations, ….
There are tons of upgrades, what we get, nothing.
Leica is just looking for easy money. That’s not my way. I own a MP and a M2, there’s no need to change anything.
Yup. This is the argument that I make in the video. But this actually doesn’t bother me at all. I kind of see the M6 replacing the MP in the lineup as the film camera with a meter. The M-A will remain as the “heritage” model with a nod to the past.
If you think of it in those terms, it actually makes sense to use the MP framework rather than retooling everything.
I’m curious though… if you already own an MP how is another camera based in the MP an issue. Leica never claimed they were reinventing the wheel on this one. This is a camera for fans of the M6 that want a new camera with a full warranty. Makes sense from my POV!
Well…The M6 is essentially an MP in the style of an M6 and the MP is essentially an upgraded M6 in the style of an M3, so….
Hehehe. Not sure I agree the M6 being in the style of the M3. But it definitely inherited its heritage!
The M6 is so HOT I can’t afford $5k plus.
Ya, they're not cheap... I'm super happy with my MP but to be honest... It took me until I was 57 before I could actually afford it! :)
I had two M4-2’s as a working photojournalist and each body cost me about $600 a piece. I wish I never sold them .
THANK YOU. FINALLY(!!!) someone with sense sees through this ruse. It IS a Leica MP "M6".
I'm good with my 2020 silver Leica MP. If I EVER had additional dough to waste on another film body, I'd grab a black MA. I don't like the red dot.
The black chrome M-A is lovely too. And that viewfinder without any meter LEDS is kind of special too.
“ *The new Leica m6 in 2023?* *Is it still good?* “
-TH-camrs
Thanks for the comment. The answer to your question is contained in this video... Give it a watch! :)
The way you talk about it, yes it is hot and I want one, but ... I am living in Canada and I can afford nothing! Wages don't go up as the rest of the prices, I'll be happy if I still have my house when all these nonsense settles down!
I hear that! Little tip... I got my Leica gear from Europe. The Euro exchange is smiling on us lately!
@@karledwards Karl, I was told I can find it for as low as €4800, that is almost $4800 US and $6500 CAD+ duty and tax!😮💨😭
@@streets28mm Sure... But there's no duty on cameras so you'll only need to pay tax coming in. The M6 is selling for 7285 CAD + tax and canadian retailers so you're saving almost 800 CAD. :)
A sad new camera! I know prices for used, oops! sorry, 'pre-owned 'are crazy. I own a M6TTL. The frame lines suck! I have had flare but blocking the other window gets rid of it. Nostalgia is wonderful. Some mentioned a M3. Leica could never build a new M3. They lack the skilled workers, the parts, the machines to build. My M3 55 years in my service! It started badly QC! M3 arrived without a working RF! Parts not there! 3 signatures of final QC. 1967. I hope the new M6, sells well. Me, after many years is slowly stopping to use film.
Yeah, I don't get it Karl. Neither the MP or M-A is in stock at B&H. So, Wetzlar introduces another analog camera? Pure aesthetics and an attempt to cash in on young film shooters pining for an M6. No one seems to mention Leica's fixation on the diminutive shutter speed dial, which is a legacy to the clip-on meter. Stupid IMO. Also, why not reintroduce this model with the current design vernacular and feature a big M6 on the front? Like the M7. They did it for a time before the M6TTL.
Leicas are rarely in stock at B&H... Always best to go directly to the Leica Store for any chance of finding a camera in stock. That's how I got my MP a couple months back.
I actually don't have a problem with the smaller shutter dial. Seems to me to be something designed to be adjusted before you bring the camera to your eye so I've never had a problem with it. As for the design choices... Well, they introduced a replica of the original M6 from 1984 and got the look pretty close. :)
@@karledwards thanks, other than the rewind crank, one might as well invest in an MP (as you've noted). They're just re-introducing a discontinued product with a couple of minor internal upgrades. Something, anything, to make it stand out from the original would have been welcome, like the "Big M6", M7, M8, M9, and M (240) all which sported the model number sans Leica.
@@jklphoto I think that's just the point to be honest. They saw a huge demand in the used market for the M6. And it was easy enough to take the MP body and create a replica of the M6. It's modern and usable but still tickles that retro M6 itch.
Hard pass from me. My old timer M6 is going just fine.
Totally! These cameras take a licking and keep on ticking!
I have visited the M6 assembly line in Germany and what you say is not true. The new M6 is the identical remake from the original. Why do you lie ?
Hot? Definitely But for $4,999 it’s NOT for my pocket
Not the cheapest. But to be fair... It's $5,295 :D
Leica is a rich man’s gear.
Please see my video called, "Leica haters are weird." ;)
New M6 2022 with faulty pressure plates , scratching film badly on multiple copies.
Yup and Leica fixed them under warranty. There will be manufacturing issues with any new camera release... It's how the company handles the repairs that matters!
There was no improvement, they just sold their past reputation.
Dont have development costs There is only the cost of assembly and materials.
But look at the selling price. lol
Not sure what you're saying exactly... This is a hand made instrument so the cost is going to reflect that fact. Also the new M6 is actually less than the original sold for in 1992 when adjusted for inflation. I think it's a fair price for what it is. These cameras are definitely expensive. But they're not overpriced.
The fact that you'd have to spend another $60 to bolt something as ugly as an after market rapid rewind knob to the MP never sat well with me. But then I guess if I really cared about speed I wouldn't buy a leica.
Not a fan of the extra rewind crank for the MP. But I'm not sure I agree with you about speed on the Leicas. I'm a street photographer and speed is critical for my workflow. I can zone focus and get the shot quicker with the MP than any modern digicam I've used. :P
@@karledwards Right! But then if speed were truly a concern, choosing a camera that you don't have to disassemble to change film would be a paramount concern. That said, all the other Leica positives far outweigh the rewind and film changing bugaboos.
@@camerakungfu it’s like Winnogrand said… “There are no photographs while I’m reloading.” ;)
I bought 2 x M-A’s brand new and they both arrived with crazy dust on the viewfinders sent them back for a swap, 2 months later I get a replacement that was just as bad.
Refunded €16k worth of an order and the ignorant arrogant bastards didn’t even respond to my 4-5 email complaints. Leica easily has the worst service and qc on the whole spectrum of camera manufacturers .
The Japanese wouldn’t have let that happen. I will never buy or even recommend Leica to no one.
I heard the horror stories of the service times and the shot customer service and still after 15yrs of waiting finally was going to buy 2 analogue bodies to keep and service over time and they couldn’t even get them into my hands new without flaws from the get go. Absolutely ridiculous with their prices and their double sign offs in the box.. blind German chimpanzees on the technician line it seems. And people spending 8.5k on digital M’s and having issues and having to wait for months. Completely unacceptable.
I commented on another post on Discuss. A guy sent his 11k noctilux that was 3 months old due to sticking aperture blades… it came back with oil all over the blades and ruined.. they are f@&kin retards working there.
Sounds like you had a bad run with the M-As but this isn't typical to my experience with the company.
Such a scam. NOT!
Not sure how you see this as a scam. It's just another camera being sold by a company that makes cameras. Leica isn't making any false claims about the new M6 and for anyone interested in a film Leica it's a solid choice. Might not be the camera for everyone. But that doesn't mean it's NOT the camera for ANYONE. :)
Bla bla bla.😂
I would instead buy Nikon F6 than this overpriced, Leica M6 with a huge marketing budget. I do not even wanna know how much they spent on marketing, probably more than on developing the camera.
But the F6 is an SLR so it really doesn't compare the rangefinder shooting experience of a Leica M. I'd also argue that while Leica cameras are definitely expensive they're not "overpriced." Might not be the right camera for you but that doesn't mean the company was somehow misguided when it came time to determine the price of their product ;)
@@karledwards when it leans on branding and history and uses "handmade" as an excuse, its overpriced.
@@Grumpygrumpo I just don't agree with you. Leica is simply bringing its latest product to market. Not sure how that is leaning on branding or history. Sounds more like a judgment individuals are making rather than a company perspective. :)
Not
Umm. Okayyyy.. ;)
It’s the most stupid camera release ever.
Not sure I agree Rikard... Leica saw growing demand in the market for the M6 and created a product to meet that demand. It's just capitalism at play :)
they must have spent a shit ton on marketing because actual photographers i talked to do not give a shit about this besides thinking maybe film will be cheaper again.
@@Grumpygrumpo I honestly don't know what Leica's marketing budget is for the new camera but it's clear that the photographers you "talked to" aren't part of their target market. :)
@@karledwards Haha yes, and capitalism is stupid;). I’m not against Leica. Been shooting Leica since before it was cool. When film was dirt cheap. I bought my M6 for $600 in near mint condition like 13 years ago. I just don’t know how I feel about Leica pushing the prices even more.. Young people think they need a Leica and take large loans to buy a camera. The hype isn’t healthy. Photography is no longer about pictures, it’s all about gear..
@@rikardlandberg The new M6 is actually selling for less than an M6 classic in 1992 (once prices are adjusted for inflation). So Leica isn't actually pushing prices at all - they're just keeping up with the costs involved in producing these cameras.
Not sure how many young people are taking out large loans to buy Leica though... My sense is younger shooters are buying used legacy models (m4, m4-2, m4-p) when they can then upgrading at some point if the desire is still there.
It's unclear where the idea of hype is coming from... People are talking about the new M6 because it's an interesting release. Nobody has sent out the carnival barkers on this one! :)
Waste of time. Sorry.
??
a waste of their production capacity
Not sure I agree with this. Leica is essntially using the MP production line for this camera so it's not a stretch to "repackage" it as an M6 at all.