[LRFlex] Re: FW: R4s

on 11/29/04 3:35 AM, Peter M.C. Werner at pwerner@xxxxxxxxxx wrote:

>> Is it altogether an issue of lenses?
> 
> In my opinion yes. The R camera bodies are just a support allowing you
> to mount the superb Leitz and Leica lenses. I would stay away from the
> R4 series (including R4s). These cameras are particularly prone to
> defects. They are basically Minoltas with a few modifications and a
> different lens mount.
> 
> See e.g. my own experience at
> 
> http://www.photo.net/bboard/q-and-a-fetch-msg?msg_id=008rK8
> 
> On that board you will find more discussions about the merits and
> demerits of the various Leica reflex bodies.
> 
> I now own a Leicaflex SL2 and a Leica R8. Both are excellent and very
> agreeable to work with. The big clear viewfinder is outstanding on both
> cameras, reminding me of the first Nikon F. You do not find such good
> viewfinders on other contemporary cameras.
> 
> I hope this helps.
> Peter Werner
> Bursins, Switzerland
> 

I agree with Peter's opinion of the SL2 and R8, and would add that the SL is
equally good.  I don't agree entirely with his opinion of the entire
R4-series of cameras.  I used three R4-series bodies for about ten years
(one R4s, 2 R4sP) and had very little trouble with them.  They seem to
require a CLA every ten to fifteen years, otherwise aperture actuating rings
and internal switches will act up, while with the SL and SL2 a camera due
for a CLA is more likely to be a bit off peak performance but still very
usable.

Many early R4 bodies were very unreliable but by the time the R4s was
produced the reliability problems had been sorted out.  The "s" BTW means
"simplified", meaning it has no shutter-priority mode and in manual mode the
shutter speed you've set isn't visible in the viewfinder.  The R4sP replaced
the R4s, adding dust- and idiot-resistant external switches, and including
the manual shutter speeds in the viewfinder.  It also has additional
internal simplification and serviceability vs. the R4s.  IMHO the R4sP is
the best of the R4 series.

Doug Herr
Birdman of Sacramento
http://www.wildlightphoto.com


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