Leica Rangefinders at a glance
M2 (1958–67)
A scaled-down and lower-cost version of the M3, the M2 had a simplified rangefinder of 0.72 magnification, allowing easier use of 35mm lenses. The 0.72 magnification became the standard viewfinder magnification for future M cameras. The M2 lacked the self-resetting film frame counter of its predecessor.
M4 (1967–75)
With added rangefinder framelines for 35mm and 135mm lenses. Introduced the canted rewind crank (the previous Ms had rewind knobs). With the M5, last M camera to have a self-timer.
M5 (1971–75)
First Leica with a light meter, a mechanical swinging-arm CDS cell positioned behind the lens. The added functionality required a redesigned, larger body compared with the traditional M3 dimensions.
CL Compact Leica (1973–76)
Leitz-Minolta CL, introduced with 2 lenses special to that model: the 40mm Summicron-C f2 and 90mm Elmar-C f4. Internal metering similar to the M5 — CDS cell on a swinging stalk.
M4-2 (1977–80)
With stronger gears for the adaptation of a motor drive. First M with hotshoe for electronic flash. No self-timer. Made in Canada.
M4-P (1980–86)
Added rangefinder framelines for the 28mm and 75mm lenses.
M6 (1984–98)
A breakthrough camera, finally combining the M3 form factor with a modern, off-the-shutter light meter with no moving parts and LED arrows in the viewfinder. Informally referred to as the M6 “Classic” to distinguish it from the “M6 TTL” models, and to indicate its “Classic” M3 dimensions.
M6 0.85 (1998)
The M6 could be optionally ordered with a .85 magnification viewfinder for easier focusing with long lenses and more accurate focusing with fast lenses, such as the 50mm/f1.0 Noctilux and 75mm/f1.4 Summilux. The 28mm framelines are dropped in this model. 3,130 of these cameras were made (all black chrome), so they are among the rarer non-commemorative M6’s.
M6 TTL (1998–2002)
With .72 and .85 viewfinder versions. From 2000 the .58 viewfinder camera for eyeglass wearers are added to the line. Supported TTL flash. The added electronics added 2mm of height to the top plate, and the shutter dial was reversed from previous models.
M7 (2002) Current model as of 2008
Has TTL exposure, aperture priority and manual exposure, electronic shutter and two mechanical speeds of 1/60 and 1/125. Comes in .58, .72, and .85 viewfinder formats, each with different brightline framelines. Same taller top plate and counter-clockwise shutter dial as the M6 TTL.
MP (2003) Current model as of 2008
A homage to the original MP, the new MP (this time standing for “Mechanical Perfection”) cosmetically resembles the original but is functionally closer to the M6 Classic. The new MP is available in chrome and black paint and with viewfinders of .58, .72 and .85 magnification.
(all info from Wikipedia)
