Leica M4-2
The Leica M4-2 is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced by Leitz Canada. In total, around 15,000 cameras were produced between 1978 and 1980 in Midland, Ontario. Almost all M4-2 cameras are black chrome; silver examples are exceedingly rare. A small run of gold-plated cameras was produced in 1980.
The M4-2 is one of the more controversial camera models in the Leica constellation. In 1971, Leica introduced the M5, its first model with built-in exposure metering. Market response to the expensive M5 was tepid, and Leitz continued to manufacture the M4 until 1975. In 1977, Leitz Canada began production of the M4-2, which is essentially an M4 modified in order to make it more economical to produce. The M4-2 is typified by:
- A stamped, rather than engraved, top plate, now reading "Leitz" instead of "Leica"
- A new, plastic "Vulcanite" covering material
- "Leica" and "M4-2" stamped on the front of the camera
- A hot shoe, rather than the cold shoe of the M2 / M3 / M4
- No self timer
- A slightly simplified rangefinder assembly
- Compatibility with the M4-2 motor drive
In addition to these changes, many sources mark the M4-2 as the first model exhibiting Leica's new "right or replace" construction philosophy. Instead of hand-fitting and adjusting individual parts for perfect fit as Leica had done in the construction and service of the M2/3/4, parts would be made to a certain standard and completely replaced when out of tolerance. While this reduced production and service costs, it also introduced the perception that the M4-2 was a cheapened product representing the fall from Leica's golden era.
In 1981, Leica introduced the M4-P, which is an M4-2 with added 28mm and 75mm framelines. In 1984, the M6 was released, itself an M4-P with the addition of a TTL meter. Therefore, the M6 is essentially an M4-2 with the addition of a light meter and two sets of framelines.
Today, the M4-2 is a wonderful Leica to own and make photographs with. The impression that the M4-2 was a cheapened version of the "classic" Leica models persists 40 years later, despite the fact that the M6 is a very similar camera produced with the same construction methods. For this reason, M4-2 bodies can often be found for sale at considerably lower prices than the M2/3/4/6. A well-conditioned M4-2 can be just as smooth and crisp in its function as these other models -- individual sample condition often matters more than model type. If you are interested in an M6 but do not need 28 /75mm framelines or a light meter, the M4-2 is an excellent choice.
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