* only manual focus 35mm rangefinder on the market today (always comes in first place in a one man race)
* built solid, well machined and heavy metal
* primitive but simple metering system
* can operate without battery
* back to basics camera

* limited shutter speed range
* difficult to load film, because back has to be removed
* lens selection limited and repetitive and very expensive
* viewfinder focusing area increases with focal lenght due to the fact the viewfinder does not magnify, makes it difficult to perform selective focus
* lens blockage of viewfinder view, esp a problem with lens hood
* shutter not as quiet as Konica Hexar and some other point and shoot cameras
* does not have half stop shutter control
* motor winder is super expensive and slow
* mechanical shutter subject to drift over time and use and no use.

The M6 has followers like any almost other cult camera, who will swear by the camera. Often they turn a blind eye to the short comings of the camera system and place the camera on a level of sainthood. But the M6 is no saint. But it does have a place in the world of photography, yet I would guess that if tomorrow the M6 production line were to close down the effect would not be felt outside the circle of Leicafiles.

The M6 is well built, and is the last of a dying breed of manual focus rangefinder cameras. The focusing is accurate, and while it is not as fast as the new auto focus cameras it is sufficent for those who can still find a purpose for this camera.

At one time one could see clearly that Leica optics were the best. But now the difference is harder to detect, new computer designs have closed the gap to such a point that no one can detect which camera took the picture 100% of the time.

So if you cannot see the difference just what are you paying for? A quiet camera? Ask yourself when was the last time you were concerned about the noise your camera made as your took the photograph? Small size camera, unobtrusive? The M6 is not invisble and neighter are you to your subject, this is especailly true when you consider that the rangefinder is at it's best with wide angle lenses and you are close to your subject.

I cannot recommend the M6 to anyone after owning one. The only thing I can say is it does hold its resale value, which is important since most first time buyers will more than likey trade it in within a year or two.

You might be better off with an older M3 body. Same if not better quality, but far better value.

Customer Service

This camera does not require service outside of scheduled maintance checkups and shutter speed adjustments. Most pro repair shop happy to see an M6 come in and treat customers well.

Similar Products Used:

M7
Fujica GSW 690 & GW690 &GW670
older minotla rangefinder cameras
various point and shoots

In a class by itself. Rock solid, time tested,evolutionary work horse

No separate meter on/off switch. Better with Abrhamson soft touch release.

Quiet shutter and perhaps the best camera for unobtrustive, candid photography. Optics are world class. Puts you in control and makes you think. Rewards success and penalizes mistakes. Serious equipment. Holds value relative to most competition.

Customer Service

Passport protection is the best in the industry

Similar Products Used:

Minolta Maxxum 9, Contax TVS II, Nikon Ti35, Nikon N90

Construction, Feel, Size, Lenses

Film Loading not the easiest

This is one solid camera. Built to take years of use and abuse. The lenses are amazing. I love being able to travel soo lightly with 3 lenses. It takes some getting use to shooting rangefinder but once you get the hang of it, you'll enjoy it. Tried both the Contax(can't focus) and the Mamiya (overpriced Plastic), I came back to Leica. I have shot it all. Leica lenses are without rival.

Customer Service

Exceptional

Similar Products Used:

Contax G2, Mamiya M7

Its the only serious manual rangefinder on the market today. No competition at all. Very reliable, a real workhorse. And simple, no manuals to study.

Yes, it got stolen twice!

What I dislike is the lightmeter. You are always distracted by those little red flashing lights!And they tell you almost nothing. Much better the old Leicameter, you can estimate the average light and then concentrate only on your subject. It is to expensive compared to a good used M3 or M4.2/P .

Customer Service

Only for communicating numbers of stolen cameras. But no reply, no comments, no help at all. German Customer Service

Similar Products Used:

Nothing comparable, new Contaxes, russian copies (forget), a good Leica IIIa (wonderful pictures)