Leica Shootout. IIIc vs. M2 vs. M6

In this Video Alastair runs through the differences (and the noticeable lack of difference) between three Leica models - the IIIc, the M2 and the M6.

0:00 Intro
0:30 Discussion
8:06 Shooting in the neighbourhood
8:48 Conclusion

[northstar]

It should be remembered the M3 was introduced in 1954, the new 'M' range did not replace the screw thread leicas as the IIIf continued until 1956 and it's replacement the IIIg was introduced in 1957 and ceased production 1960. Loading a screw thread leica is easy once you have the knack and that comes with practice. Interesting upload featuring three nice cameras.

[LongTermHasselblad]

I shot weddings with an M3 and an MP until 2010. The M3 was the fastest loading by having two spare cassettes with the film inserted in my pocket. Just drop the cassette and film into the camera, make sure it's on the sprocket and close up. Also, 100% guaranteed for the film to be attached once in the camera. MP needs care and more time to ensure it's winding.
Cheers for the video.

[sbills]

I really enjoy your videos. I'm kind of in the market for a Leica so watching your video is educational for me. I've wanted an M6 for a long time but the used prices are outrageous. I might look into a M3 or M4 as alternative.

[andychandler]

This was a good video comparing the similarities more than the differences of the M's.

I shoot with an IIIa. The big thing for me is: since I shoot street. I see it more of a risk to shoot with a four digit valued camera than one that's only three digits in the bank account.

[ofeykalakar]

The Barnacks and the M2 are all brass and will brass beautifully. The classic M6’s have zinc top plates and will not brass but will blister horribly with pockmarks. Leica makes a point that the new issue M6 is all brass similar to their other current film cameras, the MP and beautiful like the M2, M-A.

[terryallen]

Well, at least your video sent me to Lime Two...which is sold out.
For some reason my grandpa's 3c came to me with a canon ltm 50mm 1.4. Yes it's nice, but I prefer the Fed 50, 3.5 ltm.

[ChrisVidouras]

A shutter sound comparison would be nice.

[MrRomDAW]

To me shooting the Leica III is *the* experience of shooting a Leica. Also quite a bit more compact than any of the Ms. Not that they are without their quirks, but the IIIf is easily my choice.

[iNerdier]

The M6 is the meme leica that the cool kids all want, that's why they 're-introduced' it. Apparently it's more of an MP with M6 name on from what I've read.

The film door is to make it easier (possible?) to get the film over the sprocket teeth to advance it.

[powbobs]

They brought back the M6 because it is insanely popular.

[codiecrieg]

You syould sey something about Nikon SII SP and SIII the biggest fear of Leica

[john_murch]

Love my minty M4. I paid about half of what the cool kids pay for their used M6's here in Japan. I don't require the hoaky 3 red LED lights (metering). The M2 is nice too though and I totally get why people love its simple design. Those Barnack Leicas are really classically beautiful as well. Will pick up a iic or iiif at some point.

[garysong]

I liked your video comparing the different types of Leica’s. Leica range finder cameras aren’t for everyone.
Only wished I got my M2’s and M3 in the 60’s when I got my Nikon F…..they were selling NEW at around $300-$350. Leica M3’s were about $25-$75 more than an M2.
Unlike one of the comments they do not cost much to maintain. Like all mechanical cameras they need an occasional CLA which is less than a SLR.
My 60+ year old M2’s and M3 are still working like new and only needed one or two CLA’s
Range finder photography is different than SLR photography. Ranger finder cameras are more suited to a narrower niche than SLR’s.
I prefer range finders for the type of photography I practice.
There are a lot of great used range finders from Nikon, Cannon, Bessa and some Russian brands….but do your research before buying.
Thanks for your informative video.

[Biosynchro]

Here's a tip to load a Barnack Leica without having to trim the film leader. First, you remove the lens. Then you set the shutter to T. Open the shutter, then load the film. If it gets jammed along the top of the film gate, you can use your finger to push it up. Then, close the shutter, wind on a frame or two, and you're good to go.

[tomislavmiletic_]

You are forgetting the Leica M5. That thing, all do also completley mechanical, had so radically different design Leica got a boat load of backlash and bad reviews what forced it to quickly launch M4.2 model (I think) and Leica M6 is a carbon copy of that model, with added light meter of course...

[SinaFarhat]

A friend of mine burned a smalll hole in his M6 ttl cloth shutter and after seeing light leaks realized that the camera was in need of service!

[protestagain]

Regret that I didn't buy a M6 when the prize was about today's US 600.

[clarhettcoalfield]

Sadly, I personally believe Leica as a brand, is so over-rated, even though I own a couple of their cameras myself. I find the futtzing to load film is tiring, the constant repairs and associated costs to fix them exceedingly high. Leica has managed to become nothing more than fashionable jewellery to be hung around ones neck. As far as reliability and accuracy the M3 is in my opinion the only one worth getting if you must get a vintage Leica, and the digital options are about as obscene as it gets when it comes to pricing.

[steveklopfer]

Your critical discussion is annoyimg. I thought you were going to drop Granps 3c.