Is the Leica R9 generally considered to be a reliable camera?

[Espinasse]

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Is the Leica R9 generally considered to be a reliable camera? I am considering acquiring one on account of its range of fast shutter speeds.

[TomB_tx]

While designed to be reliable, it is a very complex design so lots to go wrong, and they are all pretty old. My R8 is still fine, but I haven't used it much. (Prefer M)

[hepcat]

The oldest R9s are now twenty years old.  They're significantly complex cameras and Leica is no longer servicing them.  I don't believe any of the major repair folks are servicing R bodies any longer either, the R6 and R6.2 perhaps being exceptions.   All that said, I believe that the R9 is generally held to be more reliable than the R8.  I'm not sure they're any more or less reliable than any other R body in the grand scheme of things.   UN-like the fifty year old Leicaflex Standard/SL/SL2, When the R series are broken, they're broken.

[Espinasse]

Wise words. My SL and SL2 have trouble-free these last 40+ years; not so  my two Standards with both exhibiting random shutter problems that produce an overexposed strip at the edge of the frame.  Perhaps 20 years ago the depth of field preview on my R6 failed, but this was promptly repaired by Leica. I cease to consider the R9 and shall invest in neutral density filters whilst keeping a watch out for an R6.2 in top condition. Thank you both.

[hansvons]

The R6/R6.2 came in high demand recently, some copies are advertised way above 1k. It won’t ever come into M6 territory but it’s already clear that the two R6 versions will be the Leica SLR series most desired model. Especially the R6.2 will fetch top prices in SLR land. If you see a mildly used, good copy recently CLAed (light seals etc.) at 800 EUR I’d buy it. The 500 EUR times are long over. 

[hepcat]

3 hours ago, Espinasse said:

Wise words. My SL and SL2 have trouble-free these last 40+ years; not so  my two Standards with both exhibiting random shutter problems that produce an overexposed strip at the edge of the frame.  Perhaps 20 years ago the depth of field preview on my R6 failed, but this was promptly repaired by Leica. I cease to consider the R9 and shall invest in neutral density filters whilst keeping a watch out for an R6.2 in top condition. Thank you both.

With R6 and R6.2 bodies getting ridiculously priced, I recently picked up an R5 body in top condition for $200.  Quite honestly, I like it every bit as well as I do my R6.2 and perhaps even better.    And for $200, when it's done, it's done... but hopefully I'll get a LOT of service out of it before that. 

[Stuart Richardson]

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I seldom had any problems with the R9 when I owned one, though it was a long time ago. The biggest issues I faced were more around the synchronization of the motor drive and the camera winding, and to the same degree, with the DMR. When used with just the standard camera without the motor drive, I did not have any problems. I think if the camera is in good working order when you buy it, I would expect it would serve you for a while if you take care of it.

[spydrxx]

Although you said you were taking a pass, I'd suggest keeping an open eye for one in good working condition and at a good price. You may indeed score a terrific bargain.

[pridbor]

I have no regrets! The R9 is the best camera in my hands by far.

And I like the looks of the R8/9 too even though I know that there are many opinions on that topic.

I can't stand the ergonomics of my Sony A7RII with my R lens adapter but it's a great camera.

I would go for the R9 if you can find one at a decent price.  

(I have R3, R4, R5, and R9)

Preben

 

[hepcat]

15 hours ago, Espinasse said:

Wise words. My SL and SL2 have trouble-free these last 40+ years; not so  my two Standards with both exhibiting random shutter problems that produce an overexposed strip at the edge of the frame.  

It sounds like a CLA is in order for your Standards.  That ought to fix the shutter capping issue.

[AZN]

FWIW I have a R9 Anthracite which I use with a R winder (NOT the motordive!).

Rock solid.  Bought it (used "mint") in 2017 and it still looks and behaves like new.  Also appreciate how long-lasting the (motor winder) batteries are.

In the 1990s I had a R6.2 for a few years.  Loved that it could opperate fully manual if the battery died. But the R9 is nicer 😃 

Edited September 14, 2022 by AZN

[Huss]

I have a perfect condition R9 in anthracite w the motordrive (not motor winder!) that I’ll be selling if interested.  The 1/8000 shutter and multiple exposure modes is fantastic.  I just don’t use it as I prefer my much smaller Ms.