Comprehensive Leitz/Leica data

[Ronazle]

Advertisement (gone after registration)

This listing is pretty much intended for new Leica users and enthusiasts. Especially those of a rangefinder persuasion.

Older Leitz/Leica accessories take on a new life in the digital M models. While the Wiki data is useful it is often not detailed nor particulary useful in answering a number of "how do I ?".  When Leitz went to numbers rather than the old "nickname" ids, the situation got more complex for the inexperienced and the careless.  The number one cheap and amazingly accurate reference available, in my opinion,  is Andrew Matheson's (the) Leica and Leicaflex Way which is useful for all Leica camera owners in most editions. I have editions 7, 8, and 9 which contain almost all M mount and screw mount accessory data that anyone would ever want. I am ignoring Leicaflex data which I seldom use. Most of the illustrations are from Leica and duplicate data furnished by Leica.  Used, but good condition, copies of this almost 500 page masterwork run under $40 in the U.S., I just bought a good condition Ninth edition for less than $30. 

The  Leica Manual  is collectible, pricey and ,perhaps, a little less useful and far less comprehensive than Matheson's masterwork.  But grab it if the price is right.

Lastly, is the Leitz Wetzlar published General Catalogue of Photographic Equipment.,  my copy is the edition of 1 January 1973.  It is quite detailed on Leica Stuff that was still being sold at that time.  It is the only detailed listings of some Lenses that are a little unusual and small user replacable parts such as  flash socket covers for all M series Leicas (e.g., twin flash socket cover for the M5 or Leicaflex code number 14 183) on page 61.  This particular copy/edition lists short mount 90mm Summicrons and short mount 135mm F:2.8 Elmarits.  In any event these catalogs are valuable resources for all, especially new members with little past knowledge of Leica comprehensiveness. 

Regards, Ron

Edited 4 hours ago by Ronazle
correct writing errors

[Advertisement]

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