Compact Leica M

The Leica CM camera is an absolute gem of a camera! Released in 2003, it’s a top-of-the-line compact film camera that has become a high-end pocket camera thanks to its excellent quality and features. The Leica CM camera is so small and lightweight that you can easily fit it in your pocket! This lovely little camera is equipped with a 40mm F2.4 Leica SUMMARIT lens, which gives it very high contrast and excellent resolution even at full open aperture.

40mm lens

Leica has a long history with 40mm lenses! The compact and portable film camera Leica CL of the 1970s was equipped with the Summicron-C 40mm f/2. While the Leica Summicron-C 40mm f/2 lens and the 40mm f/2.4 lens on Leica CM cameras are similar in focal length, they belong to separate camera systems and product lines.

Why is the 40mm lens always included with compact cameras, and why is it so popular with photographers? Simply put, it produces images that look like what we see with our own eyes, especially natural and real. It’s not as wide as a super wide-angle lens, and it’s not as narrow as a telephoto lens. It’s just right for everyday use and for photographing people.

This 40mm lens is small, lightweight, and has a compact design, making it a great match for a portable camera. It’s perfect for traveling, shopping, or capturing life on the go. You can easily stow it in your pocket or bag and shoot when the moment strikes. For photographers who love to capture travel photos, street scenes, or human stories, the convenience of being able to shoot anywhere, anytime is a huge advantage.

Manual Focus

In manual mode, the Leica CM is similar to the Leica M system. If you’re an experienced shooter, you can estimate the focal length, which is great! But since it’s a point-and-shoot camera, I think it’s more convenient to use the automatic mode.

Fluorite Lenses

If you’re looking for something truly special, look no further than the CM! Its Summarit lens is a real game-changer. Using fluorite lenses, it delivers outstanding image quality that’ll take your breath away. Someone had the great idea of modifying this 40mm lens to resemble the Leica M mount and using it on a Leica M camera! It’s still absolutely amazing!

E02 error

I’m really sorry to say that the Leica Minilux has a few issues with focusing. You might see an E02 error on the screen, but don’t worry! I’m happy to say that I didn’t notice this problem when I reviewed the CM! Don’t fret! In most cases, these issues are caused by a minor problem with the lens cable. If you’re lucky enough to have a repairman in your area, you can solve this problem by replacing the cable. Just be sure to factor in the cost of the repair, as it’ll likely require a fee.

Titanium

It’s so sad! Today’s digital machines are updated so quickly that their workmanship is no longer so refined. In the film era, Leica in particular made the most exquisite and beautiful cameras. They were truly works of art! It’s so sad – using titanium, which is only used in top-end cameras, is no longer a standard feature in most cameras.

Camera, Artwork

I have a number of small pocket cameras, and there’s no doubt that this Leica cm is one of the most luxurious of them all. I don’t use it very often, though, and I think it’s probably more appropriate to enjoy it as an artifact rather than as a photographic tool. Of course, this is just my personal opinion, but I love it either way!