Leica M5: Merits and Demerits

my M5 is the best available-light camera for me. SL metering with 50mm summiluxm, allows A.L sensitive portraits, with emotional impact.

great design. pluses for me, include:

larger shutter dial, rotates proud of camera body, operates with side of forefinger, while camera is at eye-level. - no distraction from framing subject.

compares to M2,M-4.2,M6 I've owned has quietest shutter, least flare-prone viewfinder (clear rangefinder spot).

fastest film loading. fast film rewinding.

great shape for holding steady.

best metering system on a Leica M ever. (SL concept similar to that on Leica SL fit SLR camera)

MINE IS 2-LUG. OWNED SINCE LATE 70'S. TOTALLY RELIABLE.

saw old newsreel, Vatican photographer used one to photograph Pope, in a.light. - its quiet!

read it was last camera to be constructed using fit and adjust assembly technique at Wetlar. fit and detail finish superb on mine.

I cannot fault it. takes my later1979 purchased 21mm f3.4 super angulon ok - see above for serial no. advice or better contact Leica A G.

tip, use silver-oxide cell, adjust ASA/DIN to calibrate in standard exposure conditions for film being used.