Leica M8.2

[achrisproduction]

Is it worthy to switch from M8 to M8.2?  

[JohnBrew]

Is it worthy to switch from M8 to M8.2?  

IMO, no. If something happened to your M8, then sure, replace it with an M8.2. I'm quite happy with my "old" M8. Also, all the so-called improvements made by Leica are the result of certain persons raising a stink on the internet. I wasn't one of those. The camera produces what I want and that's all that counts.

[krystian maj]

if the shutter in M8 is too loud for you, than yes. M8.2 is much quiet. another important case, are the viewfinder frames. in M8.2 they're corrected, and more precise than in M8. crystal lcd screen also may be important, but not for everyone.

[dseelig]

As one of those persons who made a stink I am very glad i did. I got the m8 with upgraded shutter and framelines. It is much more usable a camera.
I would if money is and issue get a used m8 and upgrade the shutter and framelines. The new shutter is much better handholding at slow shutter speeds. It is still way too much money for the upgrades. David

[geesbert]

If you like your leica in black chrome, like I do, m8 is the choice. the m8.2 onlx comes in black paint.

the finder mask improvement is huge, the m8 frames are way too big.
I don't mind the noise, it is the photographer who is disturbing, not the camera, and i prefer having a 1/8000.
can't comment on the LCD screen.

[photoshutter]

No, M8 has 1/250 flash sync and 1/8000 shutter speed.

[wcl4]

Geesbert is saying that the M8.2 only shoots to 1/4000th of a sec because of the new shutter. For $5k, I got a refurbed M8 and a 28 Summicron both under warranty for a year. The body is what devalues the quickest in the digital camera era.

[daleeman]

Geesbert is saying that the M8.2 only shoots to 1/4000th of a sec because of the new shutter. For $5k, I got a refurbed M8 and a 28 Summicron both under warranty for a year. The body is what devalues the quickest in the digital camera era.

Where can I find a lens and body combo for that price?

Also can anyone explain the differnce between 8.2's black pain and M8 black chrome?

[250swb]

Where can I find a lens and body combo for that price?

Also can anyone explain the differnce between 8.2's black pain and M8 black chrome?

'Black Chrome' is an dull anodized finish on the brass top and bottom plates. It is generally hard wearing but can get ugly and scruffy looking when 'polished' by heavy use. The wear areas turn a gray colour.

Black paint is literally a black paint finish on the brass top and bottom plates and dials and levers. It wears quickly revealing the brass underneath, called 'brassing'. Black paint is the older traditional Leica finish, black chrome appearing in the 1970's. In Germany they sometimes call the paint 'lacquer' but this should not be confused with the use of the word lacquer in other parts of the world where it refers to varnish or clear coat etc.

If you are thinking about resale value the wear characteristics of both finishes have there downsides long term. In my opinion the patina of the paint finish is nicer than the patina of the chrome finish, although it will look like the paint version has been hammered more pro rata. But to buy and try for a year or two, definitely get the black chrome (or silver chrome) version for resale value.

Steve