Explain lens compatibility Leica "R" SLR's.

I once had an original Leicaflex my father purchased for me new, when I was a lad, and I

eventually traded it, wish I had it back, and in thinking about this, I have a question.

 

As I remember, with each new "R" model there was some change in the lenses such that

older "R" lenses wouldn't meter couple to newer bodies.

 

what about the other way around? Would newer "R" lenses, including current ones couple

to the original or Leicaflex SL 2 cameras?

www.photoethnography.com has a great compatability chart

You would require the 3-cam version without the ROM contacts to use the newer Leica R lenses on the Leicaflex, SL or SL2.

Expanding on John's answer, the current lenses are all ROM so straight out of the box they will not work on the Leicaflexes. Many can be retrofitted with Leicaflex (including SL and SL2) metering cams for about US$200. This modification includes removing the ROM chip and contacts. ROM lenses will work perfectly on any R3 or newer body.