[Printmaker]

I still have and use my original M4. It just turned 40 years old. I also have a Linhof Technica that is pushing 50 years old and it still functions as my location 4x5. Chances are both of these cameras will outlive me. No doubt they will find themselves sit on a grandchild's shelf as 20th century curiosities.
But my M8 is an everyday tool. At this point, my per exposure cost is far less than film. Is it a "forever camera"? Well because of its ability to shoot great IR, I'll use it till I can't get batteries or parts. I figure that will be some 10 years or so from now. By then, my cost per exposure will be a penny or two on the M8 and my M9 or M10 will be my primary camera... and if I can still find film, I'll put a roll or two through my M4 for old time sakes.
My 2 cents, buy a used M8 and then trade it in on a M9 when it comes out. If you do any serious amount of shooting, it will be a good investment.

Tom

Kauaisprintmaker.com