A black M4-P with light evident use: it had my name on it. Russell, trusting soul, thought I might enjoy reviewing it with some Ilford HP5+ With 28-35-50-75-90-135 framelines it is essentially a meterless M6. But shooting with a lightmeter or Sunny 16 is not difficult. Russell’s 50mm Summicron lacks the close up goggles, but I hardly use my own. So off to the Royal William Yard I go. One of Plymouth’s gems, it is a stunning example of architecture from the Regency period.
The camera is light & comfortable but solid in the hand. A bright, clear viewfinder with a good patch makes focus easy. The camera handles beautifully, with the film advance delightfully mechanical. The optimisation of the viewfinder for wider lenses is no problem with the 50mm, but 90mm and above framelines are small.
The Dual Range Summicron 50mm f2 enjoys a reputation as one of Leica’s best ever lenses. I am not in position to confirm that, as I lack the funds to try their latest, but the build quality, sharpness and rendering are exquisite. It’s sharp but medium contrast, with that classic Leica look. The glass on this is clear and the finish excellent. Focus is precise and beautifully weighted – a very good example.
To summarise, a better built camera than I expected, with all the Leica rangefinder virtues and vices. It handles well and is built for the ages. The Summicron 50mm – a gem. A brilliant pairing, but the chrome of the lens clashes with the black. If you care – find a black paint Summicron of this period but don’t look at the price!
All photos shot with Ilford HP5+ at EI250, developed in PMK Pyro 1+2+100
Charles
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