Leica M6 Rangefinder Camera

The Leica M6, a camera that requires no introduction, was first introduced in 1984 and has since established itself as a landmark in the annals of photography. Produced until 2002, it was later succeeded by the M7 and MP models. The M6 is celebrated for its straightforward design, durability, exceptional craftsmanship, and user-friendly operation, which have allowed it to surpass its successors and remain a cherished symbol of the film photography era. As a new wave of photographers seeks to experience this unparalleled journey, the M6 is set to return to full production, poised to take the lead once again. Drawing inspiration from the M6 Classic rather than the subsequent TTL version, this modern iteration faithfully adheres to the original design, featuring the same slanted rewind crank, angled film advance lever, vintage black vulcanite, and the iconic Leica M6 branding on the front, complete with the distinguished red dot logo.

Film Is Not Dead

The act of deliberately loading a roll of film into your camera serves as a catalyst for decision-making and commitment. In a manual camera devoid of automatic exposure features, our understanding of fundamental photographic principles becomes paramount. The film development process introduces a gap between the photographer and the final image, compelling us to rely on our skills and, over time, enhancing our ability to visualize the impacts of aperture and exposure in our creations. The inherent, organic beauty of images produced through this medium has established film as the most fulfilling form of photography in the era following digital advancements.

The Leica Way

Trends may fluctuate, yet genuine quality and a passion for craftsmanship endure through the ages. From their very beginning, the Leica M cameras have adhered to a singular vision, capturing iconic images for many years. Their rangefinder design not only ensures a compact and lightweight form but also facilitates the creation of specialized lenses that deliver exceptional optical performance without compromise. Coupled with their understated elegance, unwavering reliability, and premium materials, it is understandable why the M system has achieved iconic status in its own right.

Rangefinder and Light Meter

Incorporating innovations introduced by contemporary M-bodies, the rangefinder undergoes a comprehensive redesign, enhancing its construction and applying optical coatings to all glass surfaces to effectively minimize ghosting and flare. Now consisting of more than 100 distinct components, this model represents a significant advancement over the limitations of its predecessor. It maintains the same 0.72x magnification as the M6 Classic, offering a balanced option between the 0.58x and 0.85x magnification choices.

The light meter has undergone a comprehensive redesign, incorporating advanced and more dependable electronics, and now features an updated display that includes a central dot alongside the traditional arrows on either side. Similar to its predecessor, it offers frame lines for lenses of 28, 35, 50, 75, 90, and 135 millimeters. Upon attaching a lens, the corresponding focal length is automatically displayed in the viewfinder as frame lines. Furthermore, all other frame lines can be accessed in the rangefinder through the field selector, enabling the user to choose the appropriate focal length for the subject prior to shutter release, thus facilitating the capture of images at the critical moment. Additionally, it includes a battery warning indicator, and unlike the original model, it allows for complete shutdown by rotating the shutter dial to the Bulb mode position.

Craftsmanship

The newly designed top cover accommodates the updated light meter. Unlike the original, which was constructed from diecast zinc, the latest version is crafted from solid brass and coated with a durable black lacquer that resists abrasion. The shutter speed dial on the top maintains the same size and orientation as that of the original M6 Classic, in contrast to the larger TTL dial. Additionally, a PC socket is positioned beneath the flash shoe, enabling the connection of off-camera flashes. The rear ISO dial has been upgraded with more dependable electronics.

Extras and Accessories

Leica has meticulously considered every aspect to authentically recreate the experience that customers enjoyed during the 1980s at the inception of the M6, while also enhancing it wherever feasible. This edition preserves the elegant original M6 box, now crafted from sustainable eco-friendly plastic, and is lined with red velvet, showcasing the Leitz logo on the interior of the cover. The manual has also been designed to resemble the original version. Furthermore, a black leather strap is provided, featuring embossed Leica lettering as a nod to the 1984 model.