I got my second M8

[BillBrittain]

A couple of months ago, I got a new M8 (black). It was love at first sight, and I found myself using the camera to the exclusion of my Nikons. After about 2500 shutter actuations, I have had no problems with it. Zero.

I upgraded to 1.092 with no difficulties.

The images from the M8 are beautiful, and working with a rangefinder suits me just fine. The M8 is a beautiful tool for certain jobs.

As a wedding shooter, I really require a backup body. I had been using my Epson R-D1 which was a good camera to me, but now she has been replaced.

I went on over to Ace Photo in Ashburn, VA today, and they sold me a new M8 (chrome). In trade, they took my R-D1 and a D2x. Now I've got a single system with which to shoot weddings, and I'm looking forward to the next one.

If you're searching for a new M8, Ace has a black one in stock and they are expecting a chrome one and more black ones in a few days. I've dealt with them for about 5 years and they have always treated me squarely. (703) 430-3333.

[johnbuckley]

Bill - congratulations. I bought Ace's first M8 in November. They are very decent to deal with. I was told by them last week that they'd sold over 14 since November. Now, this is a small, serious camera store in exurban Virginia. Think about what that says about overall M8 sales... Great news. Good for you.

[BillBrittain]

I think M8 sales are going well. Ace get's 'em in and they're sold right away.

Well John, if they've sold 15 then you and I have 1/5 of the M8s in DC? LOL

[ddp]

M8 sales and M lenses are selling VERY well. Some pessimists have said the M8 is the camera that will destroy Leica. Lol....they have no clue.

It's bringing people into the fold that have never used an M before...and that is just what Leica needs.

Very cool to see you add a second body and dumping the D2X!

[BillBrittain]

Originally Posted by ddp

M8 sales and M lenses are selling VERY well. Some pessimists have said the M8 is the camera that will destroy Leica. Lol....they have no clue.

It's bringing people into the fold that have never used an M before...and that is just what Leica needs.

Very cool to see you add a second body and dumping the D2X!

Yeah, I didn't mention that I kept my D200, though, did I?

Interestingly, I'm seriously considering adding a Leica film body to my stable. It seems folly to go back to film after about 4 years of digital shooting, but I have a visceral attraction to the idea. A lot of it has to do with the nose of the M8 though, I'm very int discretion at the moment.

Incidentally, I will pile on to the firmware discussion about the difference in the shutter sound between 1.09 and 1.092. The new camera has 1.09 on it whist my old body was updated, and there is a distinct difference between the sounds. There's a distinct "click" before the "original" shutter sound of 1.09.

[flavio]

Destroy Leica? I am sure M8 will add a lot of life to Leica future. A lot!
And I'm glad about it.

Just looking forward my wallet will accept to buy one :-)

[guy_mancuso]

Bill congrats, it is comforting of having 2 in the stable. Both of mine get a lot of play time.

[rsh]

Having just received the M8 about 10 days ago, I am impressed. I've not had the time to put it thru its paces, but that wil come when the family goes to Paris at Month's end.

At one time, before marriage, chidren and running my own business, I had time for photography. Not so much any longer. I have more stuff than I can possibly use now.

A second M8 would be nice, but my only other Leica purchase this year will be the 16, 18, 21 Tri Elmar. I could add the second M8 if I sold an M5, the MP or an SL2, but I cannot bring myself to part with anything.

By the way, I love this forum.

[Quorrell]

Good to hear some one can get hold of M8's. It would be nice to get one, let alone two. Here in the UK they are as rare as a Higgs Boson. I've had mine on order for two months in fact I've paid in full for it. Should get my money back and come to the States probably save a fair bit too, with the exchange rate being what it is at the moment.

Happy shooting and enjoy


Phill

[andit]

Hi all,

I can sympathise with Phill, here in SA they are also unavailable. I think at this stage there are only 3 in the whole country. Well, I've just had great news from Leica SA, my M8 was in Customs yesterday and should be with me either Friday or Monday :-)

So in general, I think that Leica has hit on a success with the M8, albeit with teething problems, and I believe that the future of the company looks real good. Just like the little store in Virginia, mentioned at the beginning of this thread, Leica have certainly reminded me of "The Little Engine That Could".

That is brilliant, personally I also like dealing with the smaller guys, where you get that personal attention. Here I must add that Leica SA has been fantastic, every step of the way they let me know how things are standing (there are only 3 M8's coming into the country). The main market in SA for Leica/Leitz (in terms of photography) is binoculars. There main lines of business down here are surveying equipment and medical equipment.

Andreas

[Quorrell]

Cheers Andreas your sympathy is welcome.

Glad you are getting your M8 soon. The delivery dates in the UK just keep getting extended. Unlike Leica SA, Leica UK make no apologies for the delay and don't reply to emails either. There are a couple of shops that have M8's as demos and I believe one or two people that placed orders before Christmas are getting theirs. But supplies are far and few, I was in Paris last week and they had them for sale over the counter. As I'd already paid for mine I didn't think they would take kindly to me canceling and asking for my money back. Because like a lot of small dealers they have been excellent. Approx delivery for mine is now mid April. It was mid March but changed on Monday of this week...drat!

I use a couple of M7's and assorted lenses for travelling. For heavy duty digital work a Canon EOS D1s system which a truly fantastic camera but it's flog to take about unless on location. Still at least I have my M7's so it's no great hardship. Here's to Mid April may it come around soon.

Phill

[BillBrittain]

Well, Phil and Andreas, the little store in Virginia is right on the approach to Washington Dulles airport. You could easily get from the airport to the store, pick up the Leica, and return in one hour.

Let me know if you're coming through town, I'll stop by to greet you and admire your new M8!

[Quorrell]

Thanks Bill, I might just do that. Could do with a trip to the States.

Cheers

Phill