Leica CL

[NoTx]

I am considering picking up a Leica CL. I found one in stunning condition (Leitz-Minolta) with a Rokkor 40/2 for $600 (might be able to talk down a little).

Thoughts? I want a camera that can be compact and indepenent of batteries.

What are peoples opinions of this camera?

Thanks!

[Brian Sweeney]

The meter does require a Mercury Cell battery, but you keep everything else operating. In EX+ or better with the lens, sounds like a great price.

[Designer]

It seems a good deal if condition is O.K.

[Huck Finn]

One went recently on ebay for $495, so it's possible to do better than the price you've been quoted.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...e=STRK:MEWA:IT

[Huck Finn]

Originally posted by NoTx
Thoughts? I want a camera that can be compact and indepenent of batteries.

Just to add my thoughts. . . . This camera was designed precisely for the purpose you describe, so it sounds like an excellent choice. The lens is superb.

Just be aware of its limits. First, you cannot use collapsible lenses with this camera. Second, it has a short baseline, so it will not focus f/2 lenses longer than 50mm or any lenses faster than f/2. Leica felt that by the time it got to 90mm, f/4 was the fastest lens they could recommend for it. I imagine that the Voigtlander 90/3.5 would be OK as well. The Voigtlander 75/2.5 would also be a nice, relatively compact longer lens for it.

For its intended purpose, it is an excellent camera. Happy shopping!

[Huck Finn]

Oops, I forgot to mention that you can find a comprehensive discussion of the pros & cons of this camera at www.cameraquest.com

Look under Classic Camera Profiles for the Leica section. Also worth reading is the article on Rangefinder/Viewfinders, also under Classic Camera Profiles (first section, at the top of the page).

[Huck Finn]

Robert,

Further thought . . . The CL uses the now illegal mercury battery. Check to see if the one you're interested in has been retrofitted with an adaptor for an alternative. This can be easily done.