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Leicaflex
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The Leicaflex series of high-end single-lens reflex 35 mm format film cameras were introduced by Leitz Camera in 1964. The first camera body was paired with the new R bayonet series of lenses. Three model of the cameras were sold by Leitz; the Leicaflex Standard, the Leicaflex SL and the Leicaflex SL2.
Late into the market with high prices and limited range of lenses and accessories, Leicaflex sales were below expectations and production ended in 1976. However, the production of the R mount lenses continued and were paired with the new Leica R3 that was developed in cooperation with Minolta, together with the Minolta XE bodies.[1]
Leicaflex
[edit].jpg) | |
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Maker | Leitz |
| Type | 35 mm SLR camera |
| Released | 1964 |
| Production | 1964-1968 |
| Lens | |
| Lens mount | R bayonet |
| Sensor/medium | |
| Film advance | Manual |
| Focusing | |
| Focus | Manual |
| General | |
| Dimensions | 148×97×50 mm (5.8×3.8×2.0 in) |
| Weight | 770 g (27 oz) |
| Made in | Germany |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Leicaflex SL |
In 1964 Leitz introduced its first single-lens reflex camera, the Leicaflex also known as the Leicaflex Standard. This was a response, albeit reluctantly, to the rising popularity of the SLR format. Ludwig Leitz, head of the company was urged to begin development by photographer Walther Benser back in 1955. This was due to Benser's opinion that the SLR camera system would soon rise in popularity.[2]
Beginning with the introduction of the Asahi Pentax in 1957, the Nikon F and the Canonflex in 1959, all from Japan. However, Leitz did not have the expertise the Japanese had in this format. To date its leading product; the Leica M mount series was a rangefinder camera, a format long abandoned by its competitors in the Far East. Finally, development of the Leicaflex began in 1958 and the first prototype was shown in 1963. A year later the camera was released.[3]
The Leicaflex featured a shutter speed range of 1 second to 1/2000 a second, a CdS exposure light meter (but not through-the-lens metering) and a new range of lenses with quick change bayonet (the R bayonet). The design was minimal, and the camera body was based on the Leica M. The viewfinder featured display indicators for the shutter speed setting and the light meter reading. Correct exposure is obtained by matching the needles displayed in the viewfinder. The shutter speed dial, film crank, film rewind and film count are all located on the top plate.
Due to its complicated mechanical construction the camera was extremely costly to manufacture. Its high price and lack of through-the-lens metering led to disappointing sales and only 37,500 units were made (mostly in silver chrome and about 1,000 units in black paint). Production of this camera ended in 1968.[4][3]
Leicaflex SL
[edit].jpg) | |
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Maker | Leitz |
| Type | 35 mm SLR camera |
| Released | 1968 |
| Production | 1968-1974 |
| Lens | |
| Lens mount | R bayonet |
| Sensor/medium | |
| Film advance | Manual |
| Focusing | |
| Focus | Manual |
| General | |
| Dimensions | 148×97×50 mm (5.8×3.8×2.0 in) |
| Weight | 770 g (27 oz) |
| Made in | Germany |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Leicaflex Standard |
| Successor | Leicaflex SL2 |
In 1968 the Leicaflex SL was introduced, with the SL standing for selective light. The Leicaflex SL featured TTL metering with a 5% selective measurement of the subject field, corresponding with the diameter of the circle of the micro prism. This meant that the Leicaflex SL was the first SLR camera with selective TTL metering.[5] This was considered theoretically superior to other systems that relied on the average reading of the whole prism.
This model also featured a depth-of-field preview button. There were a few cosmetic revisions including the change of the colour of the shutter dial from silver to black and the relocation of the batteries to the camera's base plate. Models were produced in silver chrome and black paint. In 1972 a special edition was produced to commemorate the 1972 Summer Olympics, held in Munich, West Germany. The Olympic rings and the number 72 were engraved on the top plate, only 1,200 of these were produced with special serial numbers.[6][7]
From 1972 to 1974 a small number of Leicaflex SL MOT were produced in black, and a few in silver chrome, with 'MOT' engraved on the top plate. These models have an internal drive shaft, which allowed an external motor to be attached for fast film winding. Furthermore, all contacts and controls were mounted externally on its base plate, thus allowing for quick mounting of the motor without the need to remove the base plate. The SL MOT, however lacked the self-timer and the meter switch in the advance lever of the ordinary models.[6]
The Leicaflex SL (including the SL MOT) sold over 70,000 units. Production of this camera ended in 1974.[6][7]
Leicaflex SL2
[edit]_Front_capped.jpg) | |
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Maker | Leitz |
| Type | 35 mm SLR camera |
| Released | 1974 |
| Production | 1974-1976 |
| Lens | |
| Lens mount | R bayonet |
| Sensor/medium | |
| Film advance | Manual |
| Focusing | |
| Focus | Manual |
| General | |
| Dimensions | 148×97×50 mm (5.8×3.8×2.0 in) |
| Weight | 770 g (27 oz) |
| Made in | Germany |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Leicaflex SL |
| Successor | Leica R3 |
The Leicaflex SL2 was introduced in 1974. The new model contained several new features, but also some cost-cutting measures. Improvements included an increase in meter sensitivity (3 stops more than the previous model). The aperture indicator was added to the viewfinder, which could be illuminated by pressing a separate button (with added extra battery compartment). A redesigned mirror in the body allowed the camera to accept new wide-angle lenses (such as the 16 mm and 19 mm focal length).
Cosmetically the camera shape was squarer and was less curved than its predecessor. Models were produced in silver chrome and in black chrome. A switch from black paint to black chrome plating was chosen as the former process was more expensive due to the fact that the layer of paint was thicker than the chrome plating as a result different dimensions had to be made for the different parts in order for the final result to be of the same size. More non-metal components were also added to reduce the cost of manufacturing.[8][7]
In 1975 a special edition model was produced for the 50th anniversary of the production of the first Leica. These models were engraved with '50 JAHRE' surrounded by oak leaves, only 1,750 were made.[8]
A Leicaflex SL2 MOT was also introduced, all in black paint. Two models of the motors were produced to go with the camera. The earlier motor was for a continuous run for film rewinding, while the later model had a control marked 'E' (Einzel or 'single') for using the motor as a power winder for single shots.[8]
Production of this camera ended in 1976, which meant that the camera was on the catalogue for only two years.[9] During this period over 26,000 units were sold (25,000 SL2 and 10,000 SL2 MOT).[7] By 1976 due to limited success, high cost of production and other financial constraints, Leitz discontinued the Leicaflex series. In fact, Leitz was losing money on each Leicaflex SL2 sold, due to the high-cost manufacture. The sales of the R bayonet lenses were not able to compensate for this loss and the entire product line became unsustainable for the company.[10]
Furthermore in 1973 the Leitz family transferred the ownership and management of the company over to Wild Heerbrugg, which had little interest in the photographic division of the company. However, a fortunate partnership back in 1971 with Minolta was able to save the R bayonet lens system. In 1976 the Leica R3 was introduced (designed and produced in conjunction with Minolta). The Leica R3 started a new series of camera, which on the whole were a lot cheaper and more electronically innovative than the Leicaflex series, whilst maintaining the R bayonet lenses. Leica did not return to the SLR market until 1997, with the introduction of the digital Leica S-System.[11]
References
[edit]- Citations
- ^ photoscala.de, July 2018, »R« – in the Shadow of the »M«, retrieved at 1 November 2020 (German).
- ^ Eastland 2006, p. 8
- ^ a b Puts 2014, p. 87
- ^ Laney 2004, p. 72
- ^ Eastland 2006, p. 21
- ^ a b c Laney 2004, p. 73
- ^ a b c d Puts 2014, p. 87
- ^ a b c Laney 2004, p. 74
- ^ "Leicaflex SL2 review". www.apotelyt.com. Retrieved 2021-04-20.
- ^ "The Leicaflex SL2 Could be the Best Leica SLR Ever Made". Casual Photophile. 2017-08-31. Retrieved 2021-04-20.
- ^ Puts 2014, p. 90
- Bibliography
- Eastland, Jonathan (2006-11-15). Leica R Compendium: Handbook of the Leica R System. Steyning Photo Books LLP. ISBN 978-1-897802-07-6.
- Laney, Dennis (2004-10-23). Leica Pocket Book. Steyning Photo Books. ISBN 978-1-874707-34-9.
- Puts, Erwin (2014). Leica Chronicle - Evolution of Leica cameras & lenses and the origin of the Leica legend. Netherlands: imX/Photosite. ISBN 978-94-91089-10-7.
External links
[edit]
Media related to Leicaflex at Wikimedia Commons- Media related to Leicaflex SL at Wikimedia Commons
- Media related to Leicaflex SL2 at Wikimedia Commons
Leicaflex
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History
Development and background
Leica had established itself as a leader in rangefinder camera design since the introduction of the Leica I in 1925, emphasizing the precision and clarity of the rangefinder viewfinder, which provided a brighter and more accurate framing experience than the dim, inverted waist-level finders of early single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras. The company, under Ernst Leitz Inc., long resisted entering the SLR market, viewing it as inferior due to issues like mirror blackout and bulkier construction that compromised the compact elegance of rangefinders like the M3. This reluctance stemmed from a belief that Leica's core strength lay in optical excellence and user-friendly viewing systems rather than mirroring the designs of competitors.[7] The landscape shifted dramatically with the launch of the Nikon F in 1959, which set a new professional standard for 35mm SLRs through its modular system, reliable mechanics, and extensive lens compatibility, rapidly eroding the market share of rangefinder cameras. Japanese manufacturers like Asahi Pentax followed with innovative models such as the Pentax Spotmatic in 1964, further accelerating SLR adoption among photographers who valued through-the-lens viewing for precise composition and focus. By the early 1960s, these developments compelled Ernst Leitz Wetzlar to initiate an SLR project to safeguard Leica's position in professional photography, marking a strategic pivot from its rangefinder heritage.[7] Development of the Leicaflex commenced around 1960-1961, with the engineering team constructing initial prototypes by 1963 that incorporated a novel bayonet lens mount to enable faster attachment and better integration with Leica's existing high-quality optics. These prototypes addressed core SLR requirements, including a focal-plane shutter and reflex mirror assembly, while overcoming challenges in adapting Leica's meticulous craftsmanship—known for minimal tolerances in rangefinder mechanisms—to the dynamic vibrations and light loss inherent in SLR mirror systems. Engineers focused on seamless compatibility with the screw-mount lens lineup, redesigning mounts to preserve the legendary Leica lens performance without compromising the camera's precision build. The internal project, aimed at creating a "Spiegelreflex-Leica" (reflex Leica), culminated in a finalized design by 1964, setting the stage for Leica's SLR era.[2][8]Launch and early reception
The Leicaflex series was first presented to the press at the Photokina trade show in Cologne, Germany, in 1963, and officially released in 1964 as Ernst Leitz Wetzlar's entry into the single-lens reflex camera market.[9] Priced at approximately $406 for the body alone, this positioned the Leicaflex as a premium alternative to contemporaries like the Nikon F, emphasizing uncompromising German engineering over mass-market affordability. Adjusted for inflation, that original price equates to about $4,000 in 2025 dollars, reflecting its status as a high-end tool for discerning photographers seeking Leica's renowned optical heritage in SLR form.[10][11] Initial production of the Leicaflex Standard model ran from 1964 to 1968, with a total of around 37,500 units manufactured, underscoring Leitz's cautious approach to scaling output amid uncertain demand. Marketing efforts highlighted the camera's exceptional build quality—featuring a robust all-metal chassis and precise mechanics—while promoting compatibility with existing Leica screw-mount (L39) lenses through dedicated adapters like the Visoflex system, allowing users to leverage their legacy glass without immediate reinvestment. This strategy aimed to bridge Leitz's rangefinder legacy with SLR innovation, targeting professionals loyal to the brand's precision rather than broad consumer appeal.[12][4][13] Contemporary reviews lauded the Leicaflex for its superior craftsmanship and tactile solidity, often describing it as feeling more substantial than rivals like the Nikon F, but drew sharp criticism for the absence of through-the-lens (TTL) metering, relying instead on external or basic prism-based systems that lagged behind Japanese innovations. The high cost further alienated potential buyers, as the Leicaflex commanded premiums over more feature-rich and affordable SLRs from Nikon and Pentax, limiting its appeal in a market increasingly dominated by value-driven options.[2][5] Sales faced significant hurdles in the mid-1960s, with slow adoption attributed to entrenched loyalty among Leica's rangefinder user base, who viewed the SLR shift as a departure from the brand's core identity, compounded by economic recovery constraints in post-war Europe that favored budget-conscious purchasing. Production figures remained modest compared to competitors, and Leitz reportedly lost money on each unit sold due to high manufacturing costs and underwhelming demand, prompting rapid iterations to the SL model by 1968. Despite these challenges, the launch established Leica's foothold in the SLR arena, albeit as a niche player.[5][14]Design and features
Body construction and ergonomics
The Leicaflex series features a robust metal body renowned for its durability and precision engineering, reflecting Leitz's high standards of craftsmanship typical of the era. Available in chrome or black enamel finishes, with later iterations adopting black chrome for added resistance to wear, the construction emphasizes longevity and a premium aesthetic.[15] Weighing approximately 770 grams for the body alone, the Leicaflex offers a substantial yet balanced handling experience that contributes to its professional-grade feel without excessive bulk. Its compact form factor, measuring roughly 148 × 97 × 57 mm in representative models like the SL2, facilitates portability while maintaining structural integrity.[16][17] Ergonomically, the cameras incorporate a right-handed rapid wind lever for efficient film advance, positioned intuitively for one-handed operation during shooting. A hinged rear back simplifies film loading, while the leatherette body covering enhances grip and comfort during extended use. The overall design prioritizes user-friendly mechanics in a modular framework that supports repairs and component upgrades through accessible screw assembly.[18] At the core of the system is a horizontal cloth focal-plane shutter, borrowed from the Leica M lineage for its smooth, low-vibration performance and reliability. Offering speeds from 1 second to 1/2000 second plus B across the series, the mechanism ensures precise exposure control with minimal operational noise, contributing to the camera's refined handling.[19][15]Viewfinder, metering, and controls
The Leicaflex series introduced the Leica R bayonet mount, featuring a flange focal distance of 47 mm that enabled backward compatibility with M39 screw-mount lenses through a dedicated adapter.[20] The viewfinders across the Leicaflex models employed an eye-level pentaprism design, delivering bright and immersive viewing with approximately 92% frame coverage and around 0.9x magnification.[21][12] In the Standard model, the focusing screen consisted of a fixed ground glass with a central microprism spot for precise alignment, while from the SL onward, interchangeable focusing screens became available, offering options such as split-image rangefinders, microprism collars, and plain matte fields to suit various lenses and shooting conditions.[22] Metering evolved significantly throughout the series to enhance exposure accuracy. The original Leicaflex Standard incorporated a built-in CdS cell for non-TTL spot metering via a front-mounted photocell on the pentaprism housing, providing center-weighted readings that adjusted based on the lens focal length—tight for 35 mm lenses and broader for longer focal lengths up to about 135 mm.[4][12] The SL model advanced this with the first selective TTL full-aperture metering in a Leica SLR, using a CdS sensor to measure approximately 5-7% of the central field (aligned with the microprism circle) at full aperture, with a sensitivity range of EV 1 to 17 at ISO 100.[23][24] The SL2 refined the system further with a cross-coupled match-needle indicator visible in the viewfinder, improving usability for quick exposure adjustments while maintaining the selective TTL approach.[22] Operational controls emphasized mechanical reliability and intuitive handling. A top-mounted shutter speed dial allowed settings from 1 second to 1/2000 second plus Bulb mode, with X-sync at 1/100 second for flash photography.[25] The film advance lever featured a 140° single-stroke throw to transport film, cock the shutter, and activate the meter in metered models.[26] Additional features included a 10-second self-timer lever, multiple exposure capability by disengaging the film advance safety, and a dedicated depth-of-field preview button for selective aperture stop-down.[22] Lens integration was seamless via the R mount's cam system, supporting automatic full-aperture indexing and stop-down preview, with the Summicron-R 50 mm f/2 commonly bundled as the kit lens for optimal performance.[27]Models
Leicaflex Standard
The Leicaflex Standard, introduced in October 1964, represented Ernst Leitz GmbH's inaugural foray into single-lens reflex cameras, bridging the company's rangefinder heritage with the growing SLR market. Production continued until 1968, yielding approximately 37,500 units with serial numbers ranging from 1,000,001 upward, primarily in chrome finish though a limited number featured black paint.[7][28] Designed as a professional tool, it emphasized precision engineering and compatibility with the new R-mount lens system, setting the foundation for subsequent Leicaflex models. Key specifications included a cloth focal-plane shutter offering speeds from 1 second to 1/2000 second plus Bulb mode, with flash synchronization at 1/100 second. It featured a built-in cadmium sulfide (CdS) exposure meter providing non-through-the-lens (non-TTL) reflected light metering via a cell on the front of the prism housing, coupled to the shutter speed and lens aperture for exposure guidance visible in the viewfinder.[26] Its fixed pentaprism viewfinder incorporated a Fresnel focusing screen with a central microprism collar, providing a bright 0.8x magnification view at eye level, though without interchangeable screens or diopter adjustments. The R-bayonet mount, with a 47.0 mm flange focal distance and 57.8 mm throat diameter, supported automatic aperture lenses and marked Leica's shift to a more versatile mounting system compared to the screw-mount rangefinders.[7][29][30] Among its innovations, the Leicaflex Standard introduced Leica's first instant-return mirror mechanism, which minimized viewfinder blackout during exposure and ensured the aperture remained fully open for composing and focusing until the shutter release. This, combined with the robust R-mount—larger than the Nikon F's 44 mm throat—allowed for enhanced optical performance and future lens expansions, positioning the camera for demanding professional workflows. Modular accessories underscored its versatility, including close-up attachments like the Elpro series for extension and the Bellows-R unit for macro photography, enabling precise near-focus work without additional housings.[7][29] Despite these advances, the model presented limitations for users transitioning from Leica's rangefinder lineup, as the eye-level focusing system demanded recalibration of depth perception and manual focus techniques unfamiliar to screw-mount enthusiasts. The reliance on an external, non-TTL meter further contributed to workflow inefficiencies, requiring separate exposure calculations that lagged behind integrated systems in competitors like the Nikon F, and its premium pricing—around $585 in 1964—reflected the handmade quality but constrained broader adoption.[7]Leicaflex SL
The Leicaflex SL, introduced in 1968, represented a major advancement in Leica's entry into the single-lens reflex market, building on the original Leicaflex by incorporating through-the-lens (TTL) metering for the first time in the series. Produced until 1974, approximately 70,995 units were manufactured, along with 827 motorized SL MOT variants, with serial numbers primarily in the blocks from 1,173,001 to 1,375,000. This model addressed key criticisms of its predecessor by integrating a built-in CdS metering cell that enabled selective TTL metering at full aperture, measuring a central 5% area of the frame (approximately 8° with a 50mm lens) for more precise exposure control. The system was powered by a PX625 mercury battery and offered sensitivity across a wide range, from EV 1 to EV 18 at ISO 100, allowing reliable operation in low-light conditions down to 1 second at f/2 or high speeds up to 1/2000 second at f/16.[31][32] Key upgrades included an improved viewfinder with a ground-glass screen that enhanced brightness and clarity, providing a life-size image with a 50mm lens and featuring a microprism focusing patch for sharp subject isolation. The viewfinder displayed the metering needle directly, with over- and underexposure indicators, and covered 95% of the frame area. Ergonomically, the SL featured a redesigned top plate that positioned the meter window more prominently for easier visibility during shooting, alongside a smooth 120° film advance lever stroke that activated the meter only when extended, conserving battery life. The camera's robust construction, weighing 1090 grams with a standard 50mm Summicron-R lens, emphasized durability with a two-year warranty and high-finish chrome or black variants, making it suitable for professional use.[32][2] The SL supported optional accessories like a motor drive compatible with the SL MOT variant, enabling continuous shooting at up to 3 frames per second for demanding applications such as sports or scientific documentation, though the standard model relied on manual winding. Available in chrome and black finishes, the SL MOT was rarer and often produced in black chrome or enamel, with internal modifications for seamless motor attachment via the base plate. Lens compatibility centered on the Leica R mount with mechanical cam systems for full-aperture metering, though later R-series lenses with ROM contacts required modification (such as cam retrofits) to avoid damage and ensure proper data transmission, as the SL lacked electronic ROM reading capabilities. Overall, these enhancements positioned the Leicaflex SL as a refined, user-focused SLR that prioritized optical precision and mechanical reliability.[32][31][33]Leicaflex SL2
The Leicaflex SL2, introduced in 1974 as the final evolution of the Leicaflex series, marked the culmination of Leitz's initial foray into 35mm SLR cameras with significant refinements to performance and usability. Produced until its discontinuation in 1976, approximately 20,000 units were manufactured, with serial numbers beginning at 1,369,801. This model built upon the TTL metering introduced in the preceding Leicaflex SL, enhancing overall metering sensitivity by a factor of four for greater accuracy across a broader range of lighting conditions.[34][35] Key enhancements included an expanded shutter speed range from 1 second to 1/2000 second plus B, facilitated by a mechanical focal-plane shutter with cloth curtains, enabling quieter and more precise operation compared to earlier models. The metering system, utilizing TTL open-aperture measurement, supported ASA film speeds from 8 to 6400, providing reliable exposure readings in diverse scenarios. Design tweaks featured an optional black chrome finish alongside the standard silver chrome, a brighter viewfinder with a split-image rangefinder surrounded by a microprism collar for improved focusing, and optimized mirror mechanics that accommodated a wider array of R-mount lenses, including telephoto options up to 800mm.[35][6] Variants included the 1975 SL2/M, which standardized a matte focusing screen for enhanced clarity in low-contrast situations, and the limited SL2 MOT, a black chrome motorized version with built-in power winder capable of 2 frames per second, of which about 1,020 units were produced. These end-of-line developments incorporated refined electronics integration, laying groundwork for the transition to the R series by improving compatibility and foreshadowing future automated exposure modes like aperture priority in successor models. The SL2's robust all-mechanical construction and precise controls positioned it as a capstone to the Leicaflex era, emphasizing durability and optical excellence.[35][16]Legacy
Transition to R series
The Leicaflex series, culminating in the SL2 model, transitioned into Leica's R series with the introduction of the Leica R3 in 1976, which represented a rebranding and evolution from the manual-only Leicaflex line. Developed in collaboration with Minolta starting in 1972, the R3 incorporated an electronically controlled metal-blade shutter (co-developed with Copal) offering speeds from 4 seconds to 1/1000 second, along with aperture-priority auto-exposure and a mechanical backup speed of 1/90 second, effectively ending the era of purely mechanical Leica SLRs. This shift addressed the growing market demand for electronic features while building on the SL2's enhanced through-the-lens metering and viewfinder brightness as a conceptual bridge to the new lineup.[36][37][38] Key carryover elements from the Leicaflex included the retention of the R-mount bayonet for full compatibility with existing lenses, ensuring continuity in the modular system philosophy that allowed interchangeable viewfinders, focusing screens, and other accessories. While the body chassis was updated through Minolta's manufacturing expertise—drawing from the Minolta XE design—production of the final Leicaflex units, primarily SL2 variants, overlapped with the R3 ramp-up in 1976, with shared accessories such as viewfinders maintaining usability across the transition period before Leicaflex production fully ceased.[39][38][37] This evolution marked Leica's strategic response to the industry's move toward electronic automation, balancing innovation with the brand's emphasis on mechanical reliability. The subsequent Leica R4, introduced in 1980 and also co-developed with Minolta, further expanded automation options like shutter-priority and program modes while preserving robust mechanical construction for durability. Paralleling these body advancements, the R-system lens lineup grew significantly, expanding from an initial set of 4 lenses at the Leicaflex launch in 1964 to over 30 by 1976, incorporating new wide-angle and zoom options to support the modernized cameras.[39][38]Collectibility and modern interest
The Leicaflex series remains undervalued in the collector's market relative to Leica's rangefinder M-series cameras, offering exceptional build quality at a fraction of the cost while providing a premium SLR experience. Standard models typically fetch $300–600 with original lenses in average to good condition, while excellent examples can reach $700–800, depending on the presence of rare black-paint variants produced in limited numbers during the mid-1960s. The Leicaflex SL commands $500–1,000 in similar states, with its motorized (MOT) edition—limited to around 980 units—adding a premium due to scarcity, often exceeding $1,200 even with non-functional motors. The SL2, the most refined model, ranges from $800–1,500, with mint bodies and lenses approaching $1,100–1,200, prized for their mechanical precision and historical significance as Leica's pinnacle of handcrafted SLRs.[40][41][23][5] Collectors value the Leicaflex for its robust construction, featuring hardened steel gears, dampened mirrors, and hand-soldered electronics that outlast many contemporaries, though common issues like film slippage from the take-up spindle, non-TTL metering inaccuracies with later lenses, and dependency on discontinued PX625 mercury batteries (now addressed via 1.4V zinc-air adapters) require vigilant maintenance. Sticky shutter curtains and persistent meter drain from always-on CdS cells can arise in unrestored units, but these are mitigated through clean, lubrication, and adjustment (CLA) services. Despite these quirks, the series appeals to enthusiasts seeking the "Leica feel" in an SLR format—silky operation and a bright, prism-rich viewfinder—without the M-series' premium pricing.[2][23][12][5] In modern contexts, Leicaflex cameras see renewed interest within film revival communities, where their R-mount lenses adapt seamlessly to mirrorless digital bodies via affordable bayonet converters, enabling hybrid analog-digital workflows while preserving the tactile joy of mechanical shooting. Preservation efforts benefit from Leica's global service network and specialized technicians, with parts availability superior to most 1960s SLRs due to ongoing support from factory-trained experts like those at independent ateliers servicing SL and SL2 models. Culturally, the Leicaflex holds milestone status as Leica's inaugural SLR line, documented in dedicated photo books such as The Leicaflex System of Photography (1972) and featured in exhibits tracing Leica's evolution, influencing premium mechanics in subsequent brands through its emphasis on durable, high-precision engineering.[42][12][23][43][5]References
- https://camera-wiki.org/wiki/Leicaflex