Customer Reviews

Leica M6 TTL 35mm RangeFinder Camera Body (Black)

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The Leica M6 TTL 35mm rangefinder camera was Leica's transitional step between the so-called "classic" original Leica M6 and the Leica M7 and MP cameras which replaced it (The Leica M6 TTL was in production from mid 1998 to 2002, when it was replaced by the Leica MP.). It is a transitional camera simply because it was the only mechanical Leica rangefinder camera ever made to include through-the-lens (TTL) flash synchronization at a slow flash synchronization speed of 1/50 second. It also was the first Leica M camera to have its shutter speed dial turn in the "wrong" direction (A status shared too by both the Leica M7 and M8 cameras), which was done because Leica designers thought that this new direction was ergonomically better (It became a major point of criticism by traditional Leica M users, and Leica listened to them when it reverted the shutter speed dial direction in the "correct" direction for the Leica MP.). Cosmetically, the Leica M6 TTL is slightly taller than the original M6 to provide more space for TTL flash synchronization. It also differs from the original M6 in offering in addition to standard (0.72) and high magnification (0.85) rangefinder configurations, a wider (0.58) rangefinder designed for eyeglass users and those working primarily with wide angle lenses up to 28mm in focal length.

If you can find a used or new Leica M6 TTL, then I'd still recommend it as a cheaper alternative to either a used or brand new Leica M7 or MP. It's definitely a less expensive alternative for anyone who wants a relatively new Leica M rangefinder camera to use with Leica M-mount lenses (I do own a limited edition Titanium M6 TTL body which I find handles as well as my original Leica M6 bodies, even with its "awkward" shutter speed dial arrangement.). The only caveat I have is that the M6 TTL is rumored to use more batteries than either the original M6 or MP, presumably because of the added feature of TTL flash synchronization. Otherwise, a M6 TTL remains a viable alternative to anyone interested in acquiring a relatively new Leica M-mount rangefinder camera body.

It's an incredibly elegant mechanical camera, sure to be one of the last great mechanicals of its kind. While it has an electronic light meter, the shutter speed and aperture must be set manually. The focusing is manual as well. I like its small size, compared to the bulky industry-standard SLR's. When you hold it in your hands, you immediately notice its substantial heft. It feels like a brass chassis; very solid. Shake it, and there are no rattling noises. The camera feels like one solid object, rather than a box with things thrown inside it. The shutter trip is like the trigger on a finely-tuned benchrest rifle. Crisp is an inadequate word for it. You must experience a Leica shutter to know. I've worked with earlier M bodies, and I have to admit, I prefer the earlier ones. One, because the earlier M's have the Leitz engraving on the top plate. The M6 does not. You will also hear about cutting manufacturing costs by using different materials and fabricating techniques, which have made some declare that the M6 isn't as well made as the earlier M's. That is true. By I don't think it's produced a camera that's lacking in any way. In my opinion, even with the less costly materials and fabricating techniques, the M6 still outclasses its major competitors. Does it have competitors, by the way? The M6 has never yet malfunctioned on me in any way or form. The viewfinder has yet to see any dust or fogging inside of it. None of the control surfaces have fallen out or broken off. The light meter is dependable and true. If you want the very best rangefinder ever made, this is the camera.