Leica LEICINA SPECIAL

[Aidan Maguire]

Hi,

 

I am looking at buying a Leica Leicina Special camera. Can anyone advise on the general pros and cons associated with this camera? Is this camera loud when it operates?

 

Thanks in advance,

 

Aidan

[Bernhard Zitz]

Is this camera loud when it operates?

 

My Leicina Special is pretty loud, at least 45-50dbA/1ft at 25fps with cartridge loaded. Mine isn't very sync, it's something around 24fps when set to 25fps...

 

a proper serviced and lubricated device might perform better...for sound you have to blimp it anyway...

 

Pros:

 

Good lenses, the zoom is amazing, the 10mm-prime performs pretty well also, with the 10mm the camera is very compact.

 

Asa-setting from 16 to 400

 

Different Speeds, time-exposure, lap-disolve

 

Different viewfinder options: arial image with hair cross, central split image, microsprism screen

 

Compatible with leica stillphoto-lenses

 

Special gate-construction, good steadiness (if in good shape or serviced)

 

http://super8wiki.com/index.php/Leicina_Special

 

 

cons:

 

price

 

hard to find service

[Bart Smith]

Some people may find the position of the viewfinder a bit tricky.

 

The handle can feel a bit flimsy, and is not very ergonomic.

 

The battery packs often seem to wear out and break.

 

But it is a lovely camera all in all

[Bernhard Zitz]

Some people may find the position of the viewfinder a bit tricky.

Once you're used to put the camera on your forehead, you'll find it a very natural way framing when shooting without trypod...

 

For me it's the most confortable camera to shoot freehand...

 

on a trypod it can be a little tricky

 

the trigger on the backside of the handle makes that the camera doesn't move when you pull the trigger...