Leica Camera TYPE numbers, what do they mean?

[roverover]

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Curious, the Leica T is labeled Type 701, the TL is Type 8854 and rumor has it the new camera ("maybe" a TL replacement) is Type 5370.

Is there any logic or specific meaning to the numerals chosen or numbering systems if anyone might know or have information?

 

[steveBK]

No logic.

They are literally making it up as they go along.

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[mjh]

These are just meaningless numbers.

[fotografr]

For that matter, what's the meaning of the letters, M,T,X,S,R, etc.? I think the answer is the same.

[JonPB]

For that matter, what's the meaning of the letters, M,T,X,S,R, etc.? I think the answer is the same.

 

 

"M"esssucher, I believe.

 

"R" would seem to be for "reflex," as in "single lens reflex," which also explains the earlier and current SL line.

 

The successor of the R line was the "S," as in one letter further along the alphabet (in both English and German). "T" follows S, so...might be some logic there.

 

"X" is common code among cameras for compact cameras with 16x24mm sensors.

 

And, if they achieve their goal of designing a high precision, manual focus mechanism for selfies, it will undoubtedly be the "U" line.

 

As far as typ designations, I suspect they mean something to the product managers, but indicate little to customers -- perhaps intentionally, so that they can register a camera with regulatory agencies without revealing that model to the public before they are ready to come to market with it.

 

Cheers,

Jon

[Belle123]

The S is medium format SLR, but the SL is mirrorless. A bit confusing. Seems like the SL should be named something else as has no relation really to the S? Of course my guess is Leica will come out with a mirrorless medium format eventually to compete with the new Hasselblad. Hopefully more reasonably priced if they hope to have any of that market.