What is a good alternative to the M10?

[TG14]

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I want to get the M10, although I am new to rangefinders. I've tried the M10 in the shop on several occasions for about 20 mins.

 

However, I'm a bit wary of production and quality control issues after reading various posts in this forum.

 

Hence, I'm thinking of spending less and getting an older M camera. I could get a new lens if the new ones are so much better.

 

(Originally, I was thinking of getting the M10 + either a 50 or a 35 f2.)

 

Which older M camera and/or lens should I get?

 

 

Thanks

 

[a.noctilux]

M(typ 262) or better yet M-D (typ 262).

If LV is not important of course for you.

 

The M(262) was the one I bought before the M10 came out (about one year later).

The M-D was the one I bought after the M10, and for me has nothing less (in use even better handling and files from it are as nice as from M10).

 

As side note, for me M10 IS the best replacement for M10 .

Edited January 29, 2018 by a.noctilux

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[jdlaing]

M-240

[pgk]

However, I'm a bit wary of production and quality control issues after reading various posts in this forum.

Every camera which is launched seems to gather a number of complaints which are aired to death on the forum. I'd really not overworry about them. All the digital Leica M cameras I've owned have been fine other than one finally needing a sensor remap (free) and the M9s having been fitted with new sensors (well out of warranty and at no cost). If you want to save money there are many options, none of them bad. The M8 is now quite old for a digital camera I suppose, and is the quirkiest of the digital rangefinders - it still has its adherents though.

[FlashGordonPhotography]

All M cameras have a mechanical focus system. As a result they will all be capable of drifting from specification and they'll all need occasional servicing to perform at their best. Just like a mechanical watch needs servicing and a digital one doesn't. You could get a Fuji XPro2 but you won't be getting the precision instrument that only a mechanical rangefinder can give you.

 

Accepting that an M might need servicing more than something all electronic is something you should be aware of going in. With each new M things get a bit better and the M10 is the best yet. 

 

Gordon

[jaapv]

Actually, I get the impression that the M10 is quite unproblematic, especially compared to earlier digital M cameras.

[fotomas]

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I'm happy with the M 240. Would prefer it against the M 10.

[Jeff S]

M240 and M10 are relatively stable platforms compared to prior iterations. Buy from a reputable dealer with warranty and carry insurance for the rest.

 

Jeff

[JDFlood]

Most new camera releases have an occasional issue, they are worked out quickly. They usually only apply to a few cameras. Also, I am sure comments on them get posted when 99 % of “I got mine and it works” do not. Get an M10. I got mine 5 months ago and it is perfect. I have pre-ordered many cameras, that then had “many problems”, not once effected the copy I got. Go for the M10... you will be compromising and spending more in the long run otherwise.

Edited January 29, 2018 by JDFlood

[Tailwagger]

The M10, in my view, is your best option, unless you're interested in video.  My first M was a 240 I purchased used from B&H and the most its required is having the RF adjusted after I knocked the camera in a spill, obviously my fault. Can't say its ever froze on me or failed in operation. With the exception of a spurious over-heating message, which seems to be associated with new batteries, my half year old M10 has operated flawlessly.  Either is worthy of consideration, but the speed, size and subtle sensor improvements sway me to recommend you reconsider the M10.

[pico]

Which older M camera and/or lens should I get?

 

LEICA 0 Series  replica , then enjoy the journey working up.

I am serious. It will be an unforgettable journey. You will likely

make some remarkable images.

Edited January 30, 2018 by pico

[a.noctilux]

LEICA 0 Series  replica , then enjoy the journey working up.

I am serious. It will be an unforgettable journey. You will likely

make some remarkable images.

 

Pico you are the best ...

 

Or Minilux and 0 Replica , as I wrote, here:

https://www.l-camera-forum.com/topic/275288-m10-and-what-other-body-do-you-own/?do=findComment&comment=3328292

[pgk]

LEICA 0 Series  replica , then enjoy the journey working up.

I am serious. It will be an unforgettable journey. You will likely

make some remarkable images.

 

Come off it pico. Noisy sensor, hit and miss focus, limited shutter speeds. Who in their right mind would ever have bought such a thing? OK I'll concede that such a camera might be a little more reliable than a modern electronic one in the long run ...... .

[keithlaban.co.uk]

Leica M240 used bodies are just so reasonably priced and there's plenty out there.

[duoenboge]

The best M for your money you can get is the M (Type240).

[strohscw]

"However, I'm a bit wary of production and quality control issues after reading various posts in this forum."

 

The best replacement for an M10 is an M10. Don´t be worried, it was and will be allways the same: A new product has always some problems at the very beginning and in the forum You will always read from them but don´t forget there are thousends of happy users, like me, that don´t post.

For me the M10 is the best digital M I´ve ever owned!

br

Wolfram

[hollisd]

You could buy a Bessa R2 or R4 to test the rangefinder waters with film. Many say the VF is superior to older Leicas. If you were to purchase new bodies you could recoup most of what you paid after an experiment or purchase used either way you'd be in the game with little investment should you decide to go with an M10. Voigtländer lenses are nice. My recommendation for someone new to rangefinders. 

[lucerne]

The best M for your money you can get is the M (Type240).

But.... you must handle both the M240 and the M10 before you decide. Value for money may be a factor, but if you don’t examine and understand appreciate the physical differences between the two, then you may be disappointed and have to sell the M240 and buy an M10 . They feel different in your hand. Its a very personal decision, amd definitely not a joint decision between you and a forum. I had the same decision without handling either body. I went for the cheaper option and very quickly realised my mistake.

[chris_tribble]

Trouble free with 2 M10s - the second pair in the UK at launch.  I'd not think twice - unless you need video the M10 is the best digital RF I've ever used (and I started out with the M10).  Perfect?  Who knows?  Reliable - in my experience, YES.

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Hallo,

Look here: Leica M

[pedaes]

Chris - started with which M?