John Thawley Posted October 22, 2008 Share #1 Posted October 22, 2008 Advertisement (gone after registration) I've been banging my head against the wall trying to find "the right" camera for my "personal" time. To be honest... I've learned a lot about what I really want. Oddly enough, I had owned the Panasonic LC1 several years ago. Since, I've owned the C-Lux 1 and currently own a C-Lux 2, D-Lux 3 and more recently a Digilux 3. This week, I picked up a Digilux 2. In the process I tried an Epson R-D1 and played just a little with the M8. I shoot professionally (motorsports) with Canon gear. My frustration has been that I wanted the simple walk-around feel of a Leica Rangefinder / Film camera. However, I'm so comfortable in the "digital darkroom," it seemed adding a film workflow into the equation wasn't going to bring any relaxation into my personal shooting. Remember, I want this camera strictly for personal/creative use. When I tried the Epson and M8, manual focusing was awkward. I wear glasses and it was just not happening. I'm not embarrassed to admit that again, the focusing (glasses aside) detracted from the smooth easy shooting flow I'm looking for. The D-Lux 3 has been a sweetheart of a camera... but at the end of the day, it's more point n' shoot than I'm looking for. I love it and will keep it. But the I wanted something more substantial in my hands. So, I purchased a Digilux 3 a few months back and honestly thought I was in love with it. But... it is a bit clumsy... and I struggled with the argument, "isn't this just like my Canons but with less lenses?" So, after reading the experiences of Digilux 2 members on this forum (especially Thorsten Overgaard) I decided it was time to revisit the Digilux 2. I will tell you straight up that I still do not like the EVF system... but.. I LOVE THIS CAMERA. This is it. I love the feel, I love the size, I love the lens, I love how quiet it is and I love the look of the files. Does it have shortcomings? Sure. But this is the best package that I've found. It feels ready... and it usually is. It's reasonably consistent. And, if you are realistic and work around some of the challenges, it's the real deal. WHY Leica did not pursue the mindset of this camera in subsequent models is beyond me. I now FULLY understand why the Digilux 3 is NOT related to the Digilux 2. This is the closest thing to an autofocus, digital rangefinder that I've come across. And, it does with style. It just feels good. So.. after that ramble, can anyone help me with adding to this love affair? The camera has wear marks by the neck strap lugs. The lettering is wearing off above the screen. The grip covering is separating from the body a bit.... (though I've inquired about leather). Is there anyone who will restore the camera to new? I've inquired with Leica's service... they really didn't answer other than to send me shipping and packing instructions and wait for a quote. I want to resurrect this beauty (it has a new sensor) and own if forever. I'll probably buy another, though as of last week when there were nine on the market, today there are none. Perhaps a resurgence in interest? Anyway... step one... lots of TLC for this one. Any upgrade ideas would be welcome too. JT Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Advertisement Posted October 22, 2008 Posted October 22, 2008 Hi John Thawley, Take a look here Hooked on Digilux 2. I'm sure you'll find what you were looking for!
MPerson Posted October 22, 2008 Share #2 Posted October 22, 2008 Welcome to the D2 club John. I can't help with restoration as I am not sure what's available outside of Leica service on your side of the pond but others more knowledgeable on the forum will let you know. One of mine is looking the worse for wear but I quite like it. Some will tell you don't use it above 100 iso but I love the look of the 400 iso RAW files I get and rarely shoot at less. RAW write times are frustrating for some but I am never in a rush and the files are really useable in Lightroom. Mine fits neatly in a small bag with my MP or CL and for me that covers all I need. As Pete Taylor said, "Digilux 2, a camera which has earned its stripes." Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
dugby Posted October 22, 2008 Share #3 Posted October 22, 2008 John, after reading your post, i know how you feel. Having used Olympus, Nikon and Minolta film cameras for 30+ years. I currently have a D1, D2, L1 (D3), and Dlux2. But I really only use my D2 and L1 (my family have the other cameras now). I enjoy and use both for different reasons. I just cannot bear to give up the D2, even though the L1 images are better. I happily accept the inferior IQ shots from my D2 as a compromise for it's lighter, and more portable package. As for refurb ideas for the D2, I am thinking blasphemously and buying the hand-grip off the Panasonic LC1 and attaching it to my D2, for better hand-holding. I have noticed a couple times having held the L1 for periods and then I pick up my D2, it's almost slipped from my hands a couple times....... I do have one of those rare Lumix LC1 leather Ever-ready camera cases for my D2, they're great and useful for quick camera access. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
elgenper Posted October 22, 2008 Share #4 Posted October 22, 2008 If the "chrome" wear bothers you, you can get self-adhesive aluminum foil from a model shop and cut and apply it to the areas around the lugs (and cover the name and red dot if you´re a stealth type...). The loosening "leather" around the grip area is a common fault; personally, I just ignore it. I bought "the Sling" from Lutz Konermann some years ago, and it works wonders on this camera (you can see it on my avatar image to the left). It´s just a piece of web that forms two loops where you put your right index and long fingers. Then, you can just let the camera dangle by your side; it´s secure yet easy to get out of. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ajthornbury Posted October 22, 2008 Share #5 Posted October 22, 2008 Hi John, welcome to D2 ownership, mine had similar wear marks but refurbished f.o.c.by Solms during sensor change. Previously condition didn't worry me too much. I initially didn't like the EVF, but have now got quite used to it. Alan J. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
stuny Posted October 22, 2008 Share #6 Posted October 22, 2008 John - The first time I sent my D2 to Leica (It's not a long drive for me to drop it in NJ) it was for the lifting covering. They ordered new covering and installed it along with updated firmware (my D2 is from March '84) and some service to the lens which felt a bit gritty as I focussed or zoomed -- all under warrantee. The next visit was for sensor replacement, and when it came back it had a new spare battery packed with it, and little leather thingies to go by the strap lugs to protect the finish. However, there was nothing done to renew the finish. BTW: Below the finish it looks like plastic, but is actually magnesium. I'm in complete agreement with Alan J. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Riley Posted October 22, 2008 Share #7 Posted October 22, 2008 Advertisement (gone after registration) you could refurbish for yourself use a syringe with adhesive inside and squeeze it between the grip and the body to re-adhere it. And its pretty easy to remove the top cover and repaint it, LC1 sensor replacement - a set on Flickr maybe black this time Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bluewinston Posted October 22, 2008 Share #8 Posted October 22, 2008 Yes, D2 is fine. Main drawback is shooting fast action scenes. For those, and when travelling light, I use the small Panasonic DMC-TZ3. Images are good but not at D2's quality level. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
John Thawley Posted October 22, 2008 Author Share #9 Posted October 22, 2008 And its pretty easy to remove the top cover and repaint it, LC1 sensor replacement - a set on Flickr maybe black this time Not gonna go there. LOL - I'd turn it into a paper weight in a heartbeat. - The other problem I see with repainting (even silver) is how would you replace all the graphics/lettering? Thanks, JT Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
John Thawley Posted October 22, 2008 Author Share #10 Posted October 22, 2008 Yes, D2 is fine. Main drawback is shooting fast action scenes. For those, and when travelling light, I use the small Panasonic DMC-TZ3. Images are good but not at D2's quality level. I have the D-Lux 3 for pocket-ware. For action... I have about $30K in Canon gear. The Digilux 2 and Digilux 3 are for my head. Now, especially the Digilux 2. I'm hoping Leica will bring it back to "new" condition and that the folks at CameraLeather.com Custom camera leather and leatherette can do something trick in the way of a nice genuine leather finish and maybe in different color than black. JT Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
james_h Posted October 22, 2008 Share #11 Posted October 22, 2008 .. (my D2 is from March '84) ... Are you sure about that Stuart ..? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
stuny Posted October 22, 2008 Share #12 Posted October 22, 2008 James - Very sharp of you to pick up on a mere 20 year error :-). You're right: March '04. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
elansprint72 Posted October 22, 2008 Share #13 Posted October 22, 2008 Yes, D2 is fine. Main drawback is shooting fast action scenes. Hmmmm....... feeds my kids. Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here… Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! Link to post Share on other sites Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! ' data-webShareUrl='https://www.l-camera-forum.com/topic/66179-hooked-on-digilux-2/?do=findComment&comment=692897'>More sharing options...
John Thawley Posted October 22, 2008 Author Share #14 Posted October 22, 2008 Hmmmm....... feeds my kids. My friend... with all due respect, if I panned a 85 mph car at 1/500 sec. I'd be thrown out of the paddock. Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here… Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! Link to post Share on other sites Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! ' data-webShareUrl='https://www.l-camera-forum.com/topic/66179-hooked-on-digilux-2/?do=findComment&comment=692905'>More sharing options...
daveleo Posted October 22, 2008 Share #15 Posted October 22, 2008 hello John my ravings about the D2 go on and on, and i will spare you long version. why o why did Leica walk away from this concept? mine was in the shop for a new sensor and in the meantime (with photokina happening) my wallet was wide open and i was shopping for a camera that better suited my (non-pro) needs, and such a camera simply does not exist (for me). used D2's with new sensors are going for $700US .... why would anyone spend $700 on anything else beats the h$#% out of me. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
krabat Posted October 22, 2008 Share #16 Posted October 22, 2008 ...why o why did Leica walk away from this concept?.... This is indeed the 1-million-dollar question... ... in the meantime (with photokina happening) my wallet was wide open and i was shopping for a camera that better suited my (non-pro) needs, and such a camera simply does not exist (for me).used D2's with new sensors are going for $700US .... why would anyone spend $700 on anything else beats the h$#% out of me. Again completely agree. Even with the willingness to spend the money, there is NO adequate camera available... Thank God my Digilux 2 is still working (after three repairs due to a downfall, the sensor failure, and finally a damage by floodwaters). I am not sure if many Digiluxes went so many things through as my did... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
stuny Posted October 23, 2008 Share #17 Posted October 23, 2008 I suspect that Leica had little choice in the matter since whatever they proposed would have to be agreeable to their partner, Panasonic. If Panasonic didn't see a business case in which they felt they could profit by the combined manufacture of Leica's and their version of the camera they probably would not make it. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
John Thawley Posted October 23, 2008 Author Share #18 Posted October 23, 2008 I suspect that Leica had little choice in the matter since whatever they proposed would have to be agreeable to their partner, Panasonic. If Panasonic didn't see a business case in which they felt they could profit by the combined manufacture of Leica's and their version of the camera they probably would not make it. You bring up a very good point. Disappointing to be sure... but a reasonable argument. What occurred to me though, is after nearly 10 years of buying the latest upgrade in cameras (probably annually) in a similar fashion to the way I upgrade my computers, the Digilux 2 might represent the only time I've ever gone "backwards" in the technology upgrade chain. That's a stunning observation and probably one hell of a compliment to the camera. And... probably lends to the camera's right to be recognized as a "real" Leica. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
daveleo Posted October 23, 2008 Share #19 Posted October 23, 2008 stuny, that is most logical .... i hadn't thought it that way.... panasonic IS a big factor. and when panasonic created the new G1 with M4/3 format they deliberately kept the camera body similar to all other SLR's because that's what would sell (not to me!). also this ties into John's observation about "going backwards" in design ... when the "digital revolution" started, camera designers threw away 70 years of camera body & lens handling evolution .... at the moment Leica M8, D2 and D3 bodies have not scrapped those decades of evolution .... they handle like highly evolved cameras ..... if Leica doesn't stay with this natural evolution in non-pro bodies (D2 shape factor and < $2000) ... it will be a sad for sure. sorry for the lecture ... i'm with John, and others, on loving the D2 form and handling. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
davephoto Posted October 23, 2008 Share #20 Posted October 23, 2008 I decided it was time to revisit the Digilux 2. I will tell you straight up that I still do not like the EVF system... but.. I LOVE THIS CAMERA. ... JT You've got some great photos, John. Look forward to seeing some of your work with the D2. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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