The M262 is weather sealed like the M240

[jim0266]

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Good to know this was not a cost-cutting measure. Leica's reply to my query:

 

"The camera construction on the M (Typ 262) is the same as the M (Typ 240) with the same main weather seals in place. However, as it has no LVF port on the back of the camera, it is more weatherproof (the Typ 240 is fully weather-sealed if the original hotshoe cover is in place, but not if being used with an external accessory on the hotshoe)."

 

My full review of the M262 for those who may have missed it.

[Steve Ricoh]

Not seen this in writing before, but it's reassuring that Leica state the M240 is fully weather sealed, with the proviso that the original hotshot cover is in place. (God knows how they seal the microphone input, looks like a colander!)

 

But what about the M lenses? I've asked this previously but have not yet received a definitive answer. Obviously weather sealing of one without the other, ie camera and lens, is useless.

 

Anyone know for sure?

[jmahto]

Not seen this in writing before, but it's reassuring that Leica state the M240 is fully weather sealed, with the proviso that the original hotshot cover is in place. (God knows how they seal the microphone input, looks like a colander!)

 

But what about the M lenses? I've asked this previously but have not yet received a definitive answer. Obviously weather sealing of one without the other, ie camera and lens, is useless.

 

Anyone know for sure?

It has come up many times before. Since there is no electronics, they don't need to be that well sealed. Water is simply kept out by usual lubrication. However I am not sure about the leakage through the mount. It simply means (to me) that use your camera in rain with caution (and never dunk in water).

 

I have used my M240 in rain with 28 cron 40 summicron-c with enough water droplets on the lens and was not an issue. My main concern was to keep water drops off the lens surface.

[Steve Ricoh]

I find it somewhat strange for a manufacturer to make claims about the camera but to remain silent about the lens, and even if the lubrication keeps the water out, the lens to camera interface could be the Achilles Heel.

[Jeff S]

I find it somewhat strange for a manufacturer to make claims about the camera but to remain silent about the lens, and even if the lubrication keeps the water out, the lens to camera interface could be the Achilles Heel.

 

Stefan Daniel did say (can't recall where) that M lenses were built to close enough tolerances when mated to the M240 that further seals were not required.  I don't baby mine in wet weather and have never had a problem, using common sense, which includes avoiding downpours and maintaining insurance for all my gear that covers all situations the warranty doesn't, including my own negligence.

 

Jeff

[Steve Ricoh]

In the 'old' days it was part of the maintenance procedure to inject fresh grease into the ball joints of a cars, especially after rain the maintenance manual said.

Rain and lens grease, I don't know...

[tobey bilek]

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some greases are waterproof, some not

[ThePioneer]

When it rains I grab my Pentax. I already know that one holds up to pretty heavy rain, sleet or snow. As much as I want to be out in anyway.

[jaapv]

In all the years I have shot Leica M, I have had some very drenched cameras, but I never saw water ingress in the lens or along the mount. The worst was always a completely fogged up viewfinder.