R8 and R9 dead after long period being ide

[masjah]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

On 9/24/2025 at 1:35 AM, erl said:

My R8 of approx 25yrs has just spat the dummy on the spot meter function. Actually, it still works but suddenly gives a significantly low reading. Clearly the specific diode is 'dying'.

I have calculated a work around by dialing in a 200% ISO higher value. That, from a test roll, gives me workable exposures. My local techy says 'no joy' for a repair. I can persist with it 'as is' but nervously. I considered a second hand R9, but really don't want to drop that sort of money on a gamble, at least I don't think so.

I will persist with my current R8, but really am not comfortable with unreliability. I do have some great R lenses and would like to keep them in service. The R8/9 functionality is so good, I don't want to trade for something lesser.

Opinions/sympathies welcome.

Erl, there are a lot of reports of R8 meter cells dying of old age (so to speak). My understanding is that the cell unit is a compound affair, and the central spot meter cell is often the first to go: the others may well follow! Apparently the cells are integrated into the body itself, and cannot be swapped out, so I can only offer tea and sympathy at a distance. I would be tempted to buy an R9. I've not heard reports of cell failure on these (but this of course may be purely down to their being younger).  

[Advertisement]

The Leica Q3 is available for pre-order at B&H Photo Video and Adorama

[gbealnz]

Sympathies for sure Erl. I'm tickled with my R8 and the few R lenses I have. 

In as much as opinions, I reckon just acquire another, before the current R8 fails completely. There are a couple of R9's for sale locally, not cheap though.