This page will contain wikis about Leica, as they become available.LeicaLeica is a camera produced by a German company of the same name. The company, formerly Ernst Leitz Gmbh, is now three companies: Leica Camera AG, Leica Geosystems AG, and Leica Microsystems AG, which produce cameras, geosurvey equipment and microscopes, respectively. Leica Microsystems AG is the owner of the Leica brand, and grants licenses to Leica Camera AG and Leica Geosystems. Leica camera history - "The grandfather of 35 mm photography"The Leica 0, a modern reedition of the original Leica The Leica I, 1925, 1:3,5 The Leica I, 1925, 1:3,5 The Leica II, 1932, with integrated telemeter Leica IIIf (1950), one of the last screw-mount Leicas, with 50 mm/f1.5 Summarit Leica's evolutionary design is evident comparing the 2003 MP and the 1954 M3 Modern Leica M series The Leica Visoflex II (1960) Leica's answer to the SLR; a Leica Visoflex II on Leica IIIf with 65 mm f/3.5 Elmarit The Leica R4 (1980) introduced the shape of the Leica SLR throughout most of the 1980s and 1990s. The Leica SL2 MOT (1974) was the culmination of the original Leicaflexes. The SL2 was reportedly more expensive to produce than the camera's price. The R9, the latest reflex camera by Leica The R9 can be fitted with a digital back Leica M2 Leica M6 Black PaintThe Leica was the first practical 35 mm camera. The first prototypes were built by Oskar Barnack at E. Leitz Optische Werke, Wetzlar, in 1913. Barnack used standard cinema 35 mm film, but extended the image size to 24 x 36 mm. Barnack believed the 2:3 aspect ratio to be the ultimate choice, leaving room for a 36-exposure film length. Barnack's words, "Small negatives -- large images", would soon change the world of photography. The concept was developed further, and in 1923 Barnack convinced his boss, Ernst Leitz II, to make a prototype series of 31. The camera was an immediate success when introduced at the 1925 Leipzig, Germany Spring Fair as the Leica I (for Leitz Camera). The Elmar 50 mm f/3.5 objective (a 4-elements design influenced by the Zeiss Tessar) was designed by Dr. Max Berek at Leitz, and was one of the reasons behind the success of the camera, the others being its compact size and reliability. The focal plane shutter had a range from 1/20 to 1/500 second, in addition to a Z for Zeit (time) position. In 1930 came the Leica I Schraubgewinde with an exchangeable objective system based on a 39 mm thread. In addition to the 50 normal lens, a 35 wide angle and a 135 mm telephoto objective were initially available. The Leica II came in 1932, with a built in rangefinder coupled to the lens focusing mechanism. This model had a separate viewfinder (showing a reduced image) and rangefinder (showing an enlarged double image which was properly focused when it became one image). The Leica III added slow shutter speeds down to 1 second, and the model IIIa added the 1/1000 second shutter speed. Also significant about the IIIa is that it is the last model made before Barnack's death, and therefore the last model he was wholly responsible for. Leitz continued to refine the original design through to 1957. The final version, the IIIg, included a large viewfinder with framelines, similar to the M3 finder, but still with the separate view- and rangefinder. These models all had a functional combination of circular dials and square windows that was quite esthetically pleasing, although somewhat busy in appearance. In 1954 Leitz unveiled the M3, a bayonet lens model, considered by many to be a design miracle for its combination of simple appearance with functional flexibility. It combined the rangefinder and viewfinder into one large, bright viewfinder with a brighter double image in the center, and introduced a system of parallax compensation. In addition, it had a new rubberized focal-plane shutter, which is known for reliability and is probably the quietest focal-plane shutter ever made. This model has continued to be refined (the latest versions being the M7 and MP, both of which have frames for 28, 35, 50, 75, 90, and 135 mm lenses which show automatically upon mounting the different lenses); but the basic quality and simplicity of design has not changed. Leica also produced a series of SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras beginning with the Leicaflex, followed by the SL, the SL2, and then the R series from R3 to R7, which were initially made in collaboration with the Minolta Corporation . They feature electronic shutter, except for the all-mechanical R6, whose only electronic part is the lightmeter. The R8 was re-designed and manufactured by Leica, featuring a larger body and a new, distinctive look. The current model is the R9, which now has an optional Digital Module back. The Leica SLRs were well-received. The optics were excellent, but Leica was slow to produce an auto-exposure model, and never made a version that supported auto-focusing. This and the high price of the optics made them less attractive to working photographers. Leitz was also responsible for numerous optical innovations (first use of aspheric production lenses, first use of multicoated lenses, first use of rare earth lenses, to name a few). From the 30s to the 50s, the Leica competed with the German Contax camera to be most sophisticated and best built camera on market. Leica lenses developed a mythology -- that photographs taken with them were recognizable from photographs taken with other lenses. There has been much controversy about this. Leica optics are particularly well-known for superior performance at maximum aperture, making them well-suited for natural-light photography. Leica has in its stable a particularly remarkable lens, the Noctilux 50 mm f/1.0. Introduced in 1976, this ultra-high speed lens is still being made today. No other lens has matched the Noctilux in its combination of speed, quality and longevity. A number of camera companies built models based on the Leica rangefinder design. These include the Leotax, Nicca and early Canon models in Japan, the Kardon in USA, the Reid in England and the Fed and Zorki in the USSR. Conceptually bridging the Rangefinder Leicas and the SLR Leicas was the Leica Visoflex System, a mirror reflex box which attached to the lens mount of Leica rangefinders (separate versions were made for the screwmount and M series bodies) and accepted lenses made especially for the Visoflex System. Rather than using the camera's rangefinder, focusing was accomplished via a groundglass screen. A coupling released both mirror and shutter to make the exposure. Camera rangefinders are inherently limited in their ability to accurately focus long focal-length lenses and the mirror reflex box permitted much longer length lenses. The earliest Leica reflex housing was the PLOOT, announced in 1935, along with the 200 mm f/4.5 Telyt Lens. This date is significant because that it places Leica among the 35 mm SLR pioneers. Moreover, until the 1964 introduction of the Leicaflex, the PLOOT and Visoflex were Leica's only SLR offerings. A redesigned PLOOT was introduced by Leica in 1951 as the Visoflex I. This was followed by a much more compact Visoflex II in 1960 (which was the only Visoflex version available in both LTM (screwmount) and M-bayonet) and the Visoflex III with instant-return mirror in 1964. Leica lenses for the Visoflex system included focal lengths of 65, 180 (rare), 200, 280, 400, 560, and 800 mm. In addition, the optical groups of many rangefinder lenses could be removed, and attached to the Visoflex via a system of adapters. The Visoflex system was discontinued in 1984. Leica's sometimes arcane catalogue of accessories belies a comprehensive if sometimes haphazard systems approach to photography. As an example, LTM (screwmount) lenses were easily usable on M cameras via an adapter. Similarly Visoflex lenses could be used on the Leicaflex and R cameras with an adapter. Furthermore, certain LTM and M rangefinder lenses featured removable optical groups which could be mounted via adapters on the Visoflex system, thus making them usable as rangefinder or SLR lenses for Visoflex-equipped Screwmount and M rangefinder cameras, as well as being usable on Leicaflex and R cameras. Leica also carried in their catalogues focusing systems such as the Focorapid and Televit which could replace certain lenses' helicoid mounts for sports and natural-life telephotography. Very early examples of Leica cameras and rare accessories are highly sought after by camera collectors and can fetch extremely high prices. Cameras carrying markings that show they were issued to the German army or airforce carry very high premiums. There exist many fake Leica cameras, usually based on Soviet cameras, with the Leica name engraved on the top-plate. Leica cameras, lenses, accessories even sales literature are almost fanatically collected by enthusiasts. There are dozens of Leica books and collector's guides, perhaps the best known is the massive 3-volume Leica an Illustrated History by James L. Lager, a former Leica employee. The Leica Historical Society of America is the largest Leica collector and user group, boasting 2,000 members. In 1986, the Leitz company changed its name to Leica (LEItz CAmera), due to the strength of the Leica brand. At this time, Leica moved its factory from Wetzlar to the nearby town of Solms. In 1996 Leica Camera separated from the Leica Group and became a publicly held company. In 1998 the Leica group split into 2 independent units: Leica Microsystems [1] and Leica Geosystems. The Leica company still produces a range of expensive, very high quality optical products, including compact cameras, M-System rangefinder cameras (direct descendants of the first Leica), R-system single-lens reflex cameras, digital cameras (in association with Panasonic) such as the Leica Digilux 2 / Panasonic DMC-LC1, binoculars, and spotting scopes. List of Leica Cameras and lensesBelow is a list of cameras and lenses produced under the Leica name. C (point and shoot) series
M (rangefinder) series
Leica 35 mm series with interchangeable lens screw mount style Leica bodies:
Leica M series with interchangeable lens bayonet style Leica bodies:
R (SLR) series
Digilux (digital) seriesLeica Digilux 2 Leica D-Lux 2
Leica lenses on PanasonicThe Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ20, a camera fitted with a Vario-Elmar asph 35-421 mm f/2.8.Leica lenses are used on many Panasonic digital cameras and video recorders. These include the Panasonic DMC-FZ10, Panasonic DMC-FZ20, Panasonic DMC-FZ30 models. Leica M lenses
Note: Noctilux is a f/1 or f/1.2 lens, Summilux is a f/1.4 lens, Summicron is a f/2 lens, and Elmarit is a f/2.8 lens in Leica lingo. Leica R lenses
Leica / Leitz enlargers
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Note: Noctilux is a f/1 or f/1.2 lens, Summilux is a f/1.4 lens, Summicron is a f/2 lens, and Elmarit is a f/2.8 lens in Leica lingo. [3]. These include the Panasonic DMC-FZ10, Panasonic DMC-FZ20, Panasonic DMC-FZ30 models. There have also been a number of fanmade games using the Super Mario World engine. Leica lenses are used on many Panasonic digital cameras and video recorders. Similarly, fans have produced and distributed simple games incorporating Mario on graphing calculators such as the TI-83. Leica M series with interchangeable lens bayonet style Leica bodies:. These games, which include Mario Forever and Super Mario: Blue Twilight DX [2], are available to download for free. Leica 35 mm series with interchangeable lens screw mount style Leica bodies:. They vary from clones of the original games to more novel games that merely incorporate the Mario characters. Below is a list of cameras and lenses produced under the Leica name. These have been produced by fans of the Mario series, not by Nintendo. The Leica company still produces a range of expensive, very high quality optical products, including compact cameras, M-System rangefinder cameras (direct descendants of the first Leica), R-system single-lens reflex cameras, digital cameras (in association with Panasonic) such as the Leica Digilux 2 / Panasonic DMC-LC1, binoculars, and spotting scopes. There are many PC Mario games distributed over the Internet. In 1998 the Leica group split into 2 independent units: Leica Microsystems [1] and Leica Geosystems. Philips made several games, such as Hotel Mario, featuring Nintendo characters for their Philips CD-i which was the result of a compromise with Nintendo over failing to release a joint CD-ROM product. In 1996 Leica Camera separated from the Leica Group and became a publicly held company. Mario appeared in several educational PC titles in the United States and in some very early games for non-Nintendo systems such as the Atari 2600 and the Philips CD-i. At this time, Leica moved its factory from Wetzlar to the nearby town of Solms. Even though Nintendo holds the copyright to Mario in many nations, and they have almost invariably retained these rights for their own use to achieve competitive advantage, there are a few small exceptions. In 1986, the Leitz company changed its name to Leica (LEItz CAmera), due to the strength of the Leica brand. Because of this, Mario only appears in Nintendo games on Nintendo systems. The Leica Historical Society of America is the largest Leica collector and user group, boasting 2,000 members. Mario is the official video game mascot for Nintendo, and is almost synonymous with the Nintendo brand. Lager, a former Leica employee. He also speaks no dialogue in Mario Superstar Baseball. There are dozens of Leica books and collector's guides, perhaps the best known is the massive 3-volume Leica an Illustrated History by James L. Though he has a voice, Mario has been Nintendo's silent protagonist in the role-playing games. Leica cameras, lenses, accessories even sales literature are almost fanatically collected by enthusiasts. In the sequence that follows, Mario is the Italian ambassador at the United Nations. There exist many fake Leica cameras, usually based on Soviet cameras, with the Leica name engraved on the top-plate. He is also parodied in the Futurama episode "Anthology of Interest II", when Fry asks the What-If Machine what would life be like as a video game. Cameras carrying markings that show they were issued to the German army or airforce carry very high premiums. For example, he appears in two episodes of The Simpsons: in "Marge Be Not Proud", he tries to convince Bart to steal a video game; and in "Homer and Ned's Hail Mary Pass", Mario is an Italian tourist that when visiting Homer (famous after an embarrasing video on the internet) gets trash cans thrown at him - just like Donkey Kong. Very early examples of Leica cameras and rare accessories are highly sought after by camera collectors and can fetch extremely high prices. Mario's popularity has been parodied and/or referenced in many television shows other than his own. Leica also carried in their catalogues focusing systems such as the Focorapid and Televit which could replace certain lenses' helicoid mounts for sports and natural-life telephotography. SSX On Tour also features the three and an exclusive Nintendo themed track. Furthermore, certain LTM and M rangefinder lenses featured removable optical groups which could be mounted via adapters on the Visoflex system, thus making them usable as rangefinder or SLR lenses for Visoflex-equipped Screwmount and M rangefinder cameras, as well as being usable on Leicaflex and R cameras. In the GameCube version of NBA Street V3, Mario makes a cameo alongside Luigi and Peach as their own playable basketball team, along with their own exclusive Nintendo themed court. Similarly Visoflex lenses could be used on the Leicaflex and R cameras with an adapter. When you shoot the Mario figure, you regain HP. As an example, LTM (screwmount) lenses were easily usable on M cameras via an adapter. In Metal Gear Solid: Twin Snakes, he has also appeared on Otacon's desk next to a Yoshi figurine. Leica's sometimes arcane catalogue of accessories belies a comprehensive if sometimes haphazard systems approach to photography. His brother Luigi appears in both games as a secret character. The Visoflex system was discontinued in 1984. He is considered a well-balanced character and is easy for most players to use. In addition, the optical groups of many rangefinder lenses could be removed, and attached to the Visoflex via a system of adapters. Melee. Leica lenses for the Visoflex system included focal lengths of 65, 180 (rare), 200, 280, 400, 560, and 800 mm. He returned with the cast from the original in the 2001 GameCube sequel, Super Smash Bros. This was followed by a much more compact Visoflex II in 1960 (which was the only Visoflex version available in both LTM (screwmount) and M-bayonet) and the Visoflex III with instant-return mirror in 1964. In 1999, Mario was included in the cast for Nintendo's popular fighting game, Super Smash Bros., for the Nintendo 64. A redesigned PLOOT was introduced by Leica in 1951 as the Visoflex I. In Majora's Mask, one of the masks on the Happy Mask Salesman's pack depicted Mario's face. Moreover, until the 1964 introduction of the Leicaflex, the PLOOT and Visoflex were Leica's only SLR offerings. In Ocarina of Time, a picture of him (Along with Luigi, Princess Peach, Yoshi and Bowser) is visible through a window in the castle courtyard where Link meets Zelda. This date is significant because that it places Leica among the 35 mm SLR pioneers. In A Link to the Past, his picture hangs on the wall of a house in Kakariko Village. The earliest Leica reflex housing was the PLOOT, announced in 1935, along with the 200 mm f/4.5 Telyt Lens. Mario made brief appearances in three games from Nintendo's other popular franchise, the Legend of Zelda series. Camera rangefinders are inherently limited in their ability to accurately focus long focal-length lenses and the mirror reflex box permitted much longer length lenses. He was also featured on the Game Over screen for the Game Boy version of Qix dressed in Mexican clothes, playing a guitar in the desert next to a cactus with a vulture perched on it. A coupling released both mirror and shutter to make the exposure. However some of his other cameos were more bizarre, such as the one in the Breakout-clone Alleyway which featured Mario on the game's box-art and also at the beginning of each stage where Mario jumps "in to" the paddle. Rather than using the camera's rangefinder, focusing was accomplished via a groundglass screen. Often he was depicted as the referee, such as in Mike Tyson's Punch-Out!! or Tennis, but was also the playable character in both versions of Nintendo's early Golf-title. Conceptually bridging the Rangefinder Leicas and the SLR Leicas was the Leica Visoflex System, a mirror reflex box which attached to the lens mount of Leica rangefinders (separate versions were made for the screwmount and M series bodies) and accepted lenses made especially for the Visoflex System. In the earlier days of the NES and Game Boy, Mario did several cameos, usually in the early sports-titles on both systems. These include the Leotax, Nicca and early Canon models in Japan, the Kardon in USA, the Reid in England and the Fed and Zorki in the USSR. In addition, a monthly comic based on Super Mario World was included as one of Nintendo Power magazine's first regular comic series. A number of camera companies built models based on the Leica rangefinder design. There was even a book series, the Nintendo Adventure Books. No other lens has matched the Noctilux in its combination of speed, quality and longevity. He has also appeared on lunchboxes, t-shirts, in candy form, and as a plush toy. Introduced in 1976, this ultra-high speed lens is still being made today. Mario has appeared on his own television show, comic books, and in a feature film where he was played by Bob Hoskins. Leica has in its stable a particularly remarkable lens, the Noctilux 50 mm f/1.0. Mario), party games (Mario Party series), Dance Dance Revolution Mario Mix and over 100 other games. Leica optics are particularly well-known for superior performance at maximum aperture, making them well-suited for natural-light photography. Mario starred in many educational games by Interplay in the mid-1990s (such as Mario is Missing!, which was Luigi's first starring role in a Mario-themed game), RPGs (Super Mario RPG, Paper Mario), sports games (Mario Golf, Mario Tennis, Super Mario Strikers, Mario Superstar Baseball), racing games (Mario Kart), puzzle games (Dr. There has been much controversy about this. Mario games have also been released in genres besides platform games. Leica lenses developed a mythology -- that photographs taken with them were recognizable from photographs taken with other lenses. It is widely acclaimed by critics and players alike as one of the greatest games of all time. From the 30s to the 50s, the Leica competed with the German Contax camera to be most sophisticated and best built camera on market. While doing so, it managed nonetheless to preserve the feel of earlier Mario games, including many of their gameplay elements and characters. Leitz was also responsible for numerous optical innovations (first use of aspheric production lenses, first use of multicoated lenses, first use of rare earth lenses, to name a few). In leaping from two to three dimensions, Super Mario 64 replaced the linear obstacle courses of traditional platform games with vast worlds set up with multiple and diverse missions, with an emphasis on exploration. This and the high price of the optics made them less attractive to working photographers. Since then, all console-based Mario games have been in 3D(Aside from the Paper Mario games, which are 2D). The optics were excellent, but Leica was slow to produce an auto-exposure model, and never made a version that supported auto-focusing. The premise was to collect the 120 Power Stars in fifteen worlds to free Princess Peach from Bowser. The Leica SLRs were well-received. (Mario's main rival, Sonic, had some cameos in Daytona USA and BUG! prior to Super Mario 64, but it would be a long time until his first truly-3D game). The current model is the R9, which now has an optional Digital Module back. Super Mario 64 was one of the first games to feature an established 2D video game character in a 3D environment in 1996. The R8 was re-designed and manufactured by Leica, featuring a larger body and a new, distinctive look. Many platformer games such as the Pac-Man World series also use the "jump on platforms and enemies" method for play created by Nintendo. They feature electronic shutter, except for the all-mechanical R6, whose only electronic part is the lightmeter. The Mario series has created or made popular many features seen in modern games, including multiple endings, minibosses, warp zones, etc. Leica also produced a series of SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras beginning with the Leicaflex, followed by the SL, the SL2, and then the R series from R3 to R7, which were initially made in collaboration with the Minolta Corporation . 3 holding the record for most copies of a non pack-in video game sold, with over seventeen million copies sold. This model has continued to be refined (the latest versions being the M7 and MP, both of which have frames for 28, 35, 50, 75, 90, and 135 mm lenses which show automatically upon mounting the different lenses); but the basic quality and simplicity of design has not changed. Super Mario Bros. sold over 40 million copies (pack-in copies included) and overall, Mario games have sold over approximately 152 million copies worldwide, with Super Mario Bros. In addition, it had a new rubberized focal-plane shutter, which is known for reliability and is probably the quietest focal-plane shutter ever made. The game was so successful that he was given a starring role in the first game for Nintendo's Nintendo Entertainment System. It combined the rangefinder and viewfinder into one large, bright viewfinder with a brighter double image in the center, and introduced a system of parallax compensation. Mario's first appearance was a prominent role in 1981's Donkey Kong. In 1954 Leitz unveiled the M3, a bayonet lens model, considered by many to be a design miracle for its combination of simple appearance with functional flexibility. let Luigi smash Mario with his hammer and then use him as a projectile by hitting him with his hammer once again. These models all had a functional combination of circular dials and square windows that was quite esthetically pleasing, although somewhat busy in appearance. Knockback Bros. The final version, the IIIg, included a large viewfinder with framelines, similar to the M3 finder, but still with the separate view- and rangefinder. The duo would turn upside down and smash an enemy with their heads. Leitz continued to refine the original design through to 1957. Then Luigi would perform a spin jump, carrying his brother into the air. Also significant about the IIIa is that it is the last model made before Barnack's death, and therefore the last model he was wholly responsible for. One move allowed him to jump on Luigi's head. The Leica III added slow shutter speeds down to 1 second, and the model IIIa added the 1/1000 second shutter speed. Mario also earned the ability to combine his powers with Luigi's. This model had a separate viewfinder (showing a reduced image) and rangefinder (showing an enlarged double image which was properly focused when it became one image). Finally, in Mario and Luigi: Superstar Saga, Mario could use Fireballs once again, but kept them in the palm of his hand and simply touched enemies briefly with them. The Leica II came in 1932, with a built in rangefinder coupled to the lens focusing mechanism. It also is useful in order to get back onto the edge of the arena. In addition to the 50 normal lens, a 35 wide angle and a 135 mm telephoto objective were initially available. This attack makes coins appear in midair when it connects, and it hits multiple times. In 1930 came the Leica I Schraubgewinde with an exchangeable objective system based on a 39 mm thread. He also has an attack called the Super Jump Punch. The focal plane shutter had a range from 1/20 to 1/500 second, in addition to a Z for Zeit (time) position. And, the tornado move, closely related to the spin he does in some earlier games. Max Berek at Leitz, and was one of the reasons behind the success of the camera, the others being its compact size and reliability. The cape, with the ability to deflect attacks, and the ability to use fire as a close ranged weapon. The Elmar 50 mm f/3.5 objective (a 4-elements design influenced by the Zeiss Tessar) was designed by Dr. Melee", Mario gained a new ability, though not closely related to the original games. The camera was an immediate success when introduced at the 1925 Leipzig, Germany Spring Fair as the Leica I (for Leitz Camera). In "Super Smash Bros. The concept was developed further, and in 1923 Barnack convinced his boss, Ernst Leitz II, to make a prototype series of 31. The prequel to this game, Paper Mario, gives Mario a new, wooden hammer that Mario can use to smash on enemies' heads. Barnack's words, "Small negatives -- large images", would soon change the world of photography. The third gives the ability to roll up into a paper tube in order to get under some obstacles, and with the final ability, Mario can turn into a paper boat at certain points, allowing him to traverse waters. Barnack believed the 2:3 aspect ratio to be the ultimate choice, leaving room for a 36-exposure film length. The second curse gives the ability to turn sideways, allowing Mario to go through small passageways. Barnack used standard cinema 35 mm film, but extended the image size to 24 x 36 mm. The first curse gives the ability to turn into a paper airplane at certain points, allowing Mario to fly through the air. Leitz Optische Werke, Wetzlar, in 1913. These curses are actually helpful, giving him new abilities. The first prototypes were built by Oskar Barnack at E. In Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door, as opposed to power-ups, Mario has "curses" placed on him by demons in black chests. The Leica was the first practical 35 mm camera. Depending on what fruit he is fed, Yoshi can be pink, purple or orange. . Also, if Yoshi goes into water that is deep enough for swimming, he will drown. Leica Microsystems AG is the owner of the Leica brand, and grants licenses to Leica Camera AG and Leica Geosystems. But, Yoshi has to eat fruit now and again, because if his juice tank empties, he will disappear. The company, formerly Ernst Leitz Gmbh, is now three companies: Leica Camera AG, Leica Geosystems AG, and Leica Microsystems AG, which produce cameras, geosurvey equipment and microscopes, respectively. When ridden, Yoshi has jumping abilities, the ability to eat all fruit and all enemies, and spray special juice, which turns enemies into platforms for a limited period. Leica is a camera produced by a German company of the same name. Mario has to find and carry the fruit that Yoshi wants to the egg, hatching it. 1978-1995. Also, Yoshi appears in SMS, as an egg. Leitz/Leica Focomat V35 - autofocus - 40 mm f/2.8 Focotar lens - colour or Multigrade (variable contrast) heads. The game in question is centered heavily around this added jumping maneuverability, though it takes away the FLUDD for a few jumping-only segments. ELCAN 20 mm enlarger lens (40x-75x enlargements) - Extremely rare. Given enough water and the right nozzle, Mario can hover across large gaps (while going upward very slightly), propel himself upward with great force, or propel himself forward at phenomenal speeds. ELCAN 52 mm enlarger lens (20x-25x enlargements) - Extremely rare. Mario wears the FLUDD in Super Mario Sunshine, which extends his jumping abilities further. Vincent electrical shutter (for enlarger) - Extremely rare. (The Feather was used as an item in the original Super Mario Kart, allowing a character to perform a large jump). Leitz Focomat II (modified for American millitary), code EN-121A - Extremely rare. Super Mario World introduced two items that have never appeared since: a smiling crescent moon that gives Mario three extra lives, and the magic feather, an item that gives Mario a cape and allows him to fly. Available in "color" version with filter drawer and lighted enlargement factor scale. Yoshi's basic abilities were expanded upon for Yoshi's Island. Only very slender enlarging lenses will for the IIc helicals. In some other cases, the food he consumes can turn into eggs which provide various powerups for Mario. Kienzle or other colour heads sometime fitted. Yoshi usually comes only in the color green, but in Star Road he can be found in blue, red, and yellow, which, when fully-grown, will have the corresponding special shell effect as a default when any shell is eaten. All the 6 cm and 60 mm Focotars appear to be the same optical design. Blue shells make Yoshi fly for a short period of time, red shells make Yoshi spit fireballs, yellow shells make Yoshi conjure dust when he touches the ground from jumping, wiping out any close enemies, and a flashing shell allows for all of these abilities at once. First produced with Focotar 6 cm f/1:4.5 and focotar 9.5 cm f/1:4.5, later with Focotar 60 mm and V-Elmar 100 mm f1:4.5, still later with Focotar 60 mm and Focotar II 100 mm f/1:5.6. (In the Game Boy Advance re-release, Luigi, when controlling Yoshi, has the option of spitting out any opponent that would otherwise be eaten). Leitz Focomat IIc - 35 mm-6x9 formats, dual lens stage rather than turret, autofocus. Also, Yoshi can eat almost any foe; if he eats a Koopa Shell, he can spit it back out, or swallow it for a possible special power. Available in "color" version with filter drawer and lighted enlargement factor scale. When riding a Yoshi, Mario can clear spiky terrain and stomp foes that he otherwise cannot. The early version has a single helical that will accommodate lenses of any make. Super Mario World also features Mario's ally, Yoshi, quite prominently. Leitz Focomat IIa - 35 mm-6x9 format, dual lens turret on later versions that fitted a 5 cm Elmar f/1:3.5 or Focotar f/1:4.5, and a 9.5 cm f/1:4.5 Focotar, autofocus. Super Mario World extended this ability to include vertical kicking, as well as keys that could be picked up and put into keyholes to open secret levels. Many small design variations exist. 3 implemented this act of picking things up, but instead of being on top of them to pick them up, Mario must come at them from the side with the pick-up button held, and release the pick-up button to kick it. Available in "color" version with filter drawer and lighted enlargement factor scale. Super Mario Bros. The 1C helical will accommodate lenses of various makes. Keys were also present for opening locked doors, but were also handy as a weapon or platform. The 50 mm exists in two versions. 2, he had to pick various objects from the ground and toss them at his enemies to defeat them, ranging from vegetables to his enemies themselves. The Focotar-2 is always the same formula, and so is the 5 cm version. In Super Mario Bros. Changes in Focotar name or focal length designation do not necessarily coincide with the optical formula. Mario also has the ability to kick shells around to knock over enemies and break bricks. Produced first with Varob 5cm f1:3.5 lenses, later with Elmar 5cm f1:3.5, focotar 5cm f1:4.5, focotar 50 mm f/1:4.5, focotar 50 mm 2nd version f/1:4.5, Focotar-2 f/1:4.5. Additionally, two new power-ups were introduced for the DS remake; the Balloon powerup (from Super Mario World), which can only be used by Mario, and a flame, which, if eaten by Yoshi, can be spit onto certain things. Leitz Focomat Ic - sometimes fitted with Kienzle colour head. Luigi gained the exclusive ability to use the Vanish Cap, and Wario gained the exclusive ability to use the Metal Cap. Leitz Focomat Ib. Super Mario 64 DS made some changes, making it so that only Mario can use the Wing Cap. Leitz Focomat Ia - Same as Focomat 1C, that is with autofocus, but the head does not tilt back to allow for easy insertion of negative. Additionally, this game also lets Mario ride on the shells of defeated Koopa Troopas, allowing him to quickly traverse large levels and defeat minor enemies. Leitz Valoy and Valoy II - manual focus, later versions of the Valoy II were grey in colour. The Wing Cap allows Mario to fly, the Vanish Cap allows him to go through certain walls, and the Metal Cap makes him sink in water. Leica 105-280 mm f/4.2 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. Mario has three different powerups to choose from; the Wing Cap, the Vanish Cap and the Metal Cap. Leica 80-200 mm f/4.0 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. Super Mario 64 eliminated the original powerups altogether. Leica 80-200 mm f/4.5 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. When Mario flaps these ears, he is able to descend after a jump much slower than normal, and float over long distances. Leica 75-200 mm f/4.5 Vario-Elmar-R - 1976-1984. Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins features the Fire Flower and introduced the Power Carrot, which causes bunny ears to appear on Mario's cap. Leica 70-210 mm f/4.0 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. Later the Kuribo's Shoe is replaced with the Goomba's shoe in Super Mario Advance 4, which Peach mentions in one of her letters. Leica 35-70 mm Vario-Elmarit-R ASPH zoom - 2000 (only 200 was made). 3 also featured the rare Kuribo's Shoe, which only appears in one level. Leica 35-70 mm f/3.5 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. Super Mario Bros. Leica 35-70 f/4.0 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. Suit and the Frog Suit. Leica 70-180 mm f/2.8 Vario-APO-Elmarit-R zoom. Other popular powerups are the Tanooki Suit, the Hammer Bros. Leica 28 mm-70 mm f/3.5-f/4.5 Vario-Elmar-R zoom. It features the classic Super Mushroom, Fire Flower and Starman, and introduces several others, such as the Super Leaf, which gives Mario the ability to fly, and swing a raccoon tail. Leica 21 mm-35 mm f/3.5-f/4.0 Vario-Elmar-R zoom - 2002. 3 introduced several new powerups. Leica modular APO-Telyt-R 400/560/800 head. Super Mario Bros. Leica modular APO-Telyt-R 260/400/560 head. (Or in this case, power-downs). Leica 800 mm f/6.3 Telyt-S - 1972-1995 (sold including a free VW Fox). 2 (the Japanese version) did not introduce new powerups, other than the Poison Mushroom (which is the opposite of the Super Mushroom, shrinking or killing Mario), making this the first game to add on to the list of powerups. Leica 560 mm f/5.6 Telyt-R - 1966-1973. Super Mario Bros. Leica 560 mm f/6.8 Telyt-R - 1971-1995. It has not disappeared from the games entirely, in Super Mario 64 and Super Mario 64 DS, Mario (with help from Yoshi, Luigi and Wario in SM64DS) has to collect enough power stars to free the princess. Leica 500 mm f/8 MR-Telyt-R. The Starman gives Mario invincibility for ten seconds, also allowing Mario to defeat enemies just by touching them. Leica 450 mm f/5.6 Elcan-R, code C-329 - Extremely rare. In most games, Mario in a special form will be transformed into Super Mario instead of shrinking to regular Mario when hit. Leica 400 mm f/2.8 APO-Telyt-R - 1992-1996. Like the Super Mushroom, it has since disappeared from the newer games. Leica 400 mm f/5.6 Telyt-R. In Super Mario Land, instead of fireballs, Mario throws superballs, which bounce off walls. Leica 400 mm f/6.8 Telyt-R - 1968-1994. It gives him the ability to throw fireballs from his hands, and in later games, he is able to throw fireballs in a circle when he spins. Leica 350 mm f/4.8 Telyt-R. The Fire Flower either transforms regular Mario (doubling his size), or changes Super Mario into Fire Mario. Leica 280 mm f/2.8 APO-Telyt-R - 1984-1997. The later Super Mario Bros. includes the Super Mushroom, the Fire Flower and the Starman. Leica 280 mm f/4.0 APO-Telyt-R. The first game to feature a powerup was Donkey Kong arcade game. It has a hammer in most levels that can be used to hit barrels. Leica 280 mm f/4.8 Telyt-V. Originally, there were few powerups for Mario to collect. Leica 250 mm f/4.0 Telyt-R 2nd version. If Mario punches twice, the third blow will be a kick. Leica 250 mm f/4.0 Telyt-R 1st version -. This is generally a move that Mario has in adventure games with no set battle system and is his weakest move. Leica 180 mm f/3.4 Elcan-R code C-303 - Extremely rare. Mario's second-most popular move is a move that most video game characters have- the punch. Leica 180 mm f/2.0 APO-Summicron-R. This is one of the most common power ups in the series; although the 3D games have not used them (the remake of Super Mario 64, Super Mario 64 DS, adds this powerup). Leica 180 mm f/2.8 APO-Elmarit-R - 1998. If an enemy hits him, he turns back into normal Mario again. Leica 180 mm f/3.4 APO-Telyt-R - 1975-1998. In this form Mario has the ability to break bricks with his fist, at the cost of possibly being unable to maneuver in small gaps. Leica 180 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 2nd version. Leica 135 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 2nd version. Later, Super Mario 64 added the ability to jump higher with consecutive jumps, as well as a long jump, a back-flip, and a ground pound. Leica 135 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 1st version - 1965. Super Mario World added the ability to spin-jump, which allows Mario to break blocks beneath him if he is of sufficient size to do so, without the requirement for another power-up or a Koopa Shell. Leica 100 mm f/2.8 APO-Macro-Elmarit-R. 3 secretly gives little Mario (before a Super Mushroom) the ability to jump off of a wall to attain even more height, notably in the sixth world. Leica 100 mm f/4.0 Macro-Elmar-R helical version. Super Mario Bros. Leica 100 mm f/4.0 Macro-Elmar-R bellows version. When he runs fast, he jumps higher than normal, which, given the right power-up, is required to fly; in such games, he would stick his arms out at his sides when at maximum speed to signify the proper jumping time. Leica 90 mm f/1.0 Elcan-R - Extremely rare. At first, that was the extent of it — just jumping — but more abilities were built on top of this. Leica 90 mm APO-Summicron-R ASPH - 2002. Despite his apparently chubby appearance, Mario's most prominent feature is his athletic jumping ability. Leica 90 mm Summicron-R 2nd version -. Also, Mario may be the more unintelligent brother, as is shown in some games. Leica 90 mm Summicron-R 1st version - 1969. It is generally agreed that Mario is braver than Luigi; Luigi is the more cautious brother. Leica 90 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 2nd version - 1983. Donkey Kong, it is shown that he tends to speak his native Italian tongue when he's angry. Leica 90 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 1st version - 1964-1996. In Mario vs. Leica 80 mm f/1.4 Summilux-R. Mario is generally kind hearted and heroic. Leica 75 mm f/2.0 Elcan-R code C-341 - Extremely rare. Fans have wanted the two characters to appear in a game together for so long, the concept has become something of a cliché within the gamer community. Leica 60 mm Macro-Elmarit-R dn2 version. Mario's major rival was Sega mascot Sonic the Hedgehog who debuted in the early 1990s; the two mascots competed head-to-head for nearly a decade afterward, until around 2001 when a Sonic game showed up on a Nintendo console due to Sega's new third party status, ending a lengthy rivalry. Leica 60 mm Macro-Elmarit-R 1st version - 1972 - outside bayonet lens hood fitting. Mario has taken on the role of mascot of Nintendo and has since been extensively merchandised. Leica 50 mm f/1.4 Summilux-R 3rd version - 1997 (ROM contacts). Super Show, and then in the 1993 feature film Super Mario Bros. This was meant to explain how both Mario and his brother Luigi could be known as the "Mario brothers". Leica 50 mm f/1.4 Summilux-R 2nd version. The surname "Mario" (which would make his full name Mario Mario) was first used in The Super Mario Bros. Leica 50 mm f/1.4 Summilux-R 1st version. [1] The concept behind warp pipes, colored tubes which sometimes transport Mario to another area, was inspired by Star Trek. Leica 50 mm f/2.0 Summicron-R 2nd version - 1977 - built-in lens hood, 3-cam and R-cam only version. These ideas was derived from the "Eat me" cakes and "Drink me" potions in the Lewis Carroll story, Alice in Wonderland, after he was forced to shrink the original sketches of Mario because they were too big. Leica 50 mm f/2.0 Summicron-R 1st version - 1964. There is also a Poison Mushroom, which is slightly different color in most games, and when Mario eats it (Or whatever he does) it makes him a lot smaller for a short period of time. Leica 35 mm f/1.4 Summilux-R. One of his most recognizable contributions to his Mario universe is the Super Mushroom, which would enlarge Mario until he got damaged by an enemy. Leica 35 mm f/2.0 Summicron-R 2nd version - 1976. Miyamoto created many of the elements in the Mario world from ideas he had seen in other media. Leica 35 mm f/2.0 Summicron-R 1st version - 1970. He also flashes different colors when utilizing a star, which gives him temporary invincibility. Leica 35 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 3rd version. Also, in some Mario games, Mario can transform into different forms, each with a different costume, such as Tanooki Mario, Fire Mario, Frog Mario, and Hammer Mario. Leica 35 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 2nd version. For example, in Super Mario Strikers, Mario wears an Association Football (soccer) outfit as opposed to overalls. Leica 35 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 1st version - 1964. Mario's outfit rarely changes, though he's known to change it on occasion if the situation calls for it. Leica 35 mm f/4.0 PA-Curtagon-R (Schneider-Kreuznach design). (Incidentally, the original Super Mario Bros. has neither in-game; Mario wears a brown shirt with red overalls). Leica 28 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 2nd version - 1994. 3 that standardized today's blue overalls-on-red shirt outfit. Leica 28 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 1st version - 1970. 2 was the first appearance of his modern outfit (the box had the red overalls-on-blue shirt, but the game itself had a blue overalls-on-red shirt); however, it was Super Mario Bros. Leica 28 mm PC-Super-Angulon-R (Schneider-Kreuznach design). The American Super Mario Bros. Leica 24 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R. Originally, he wore red overalls on top of a blue shirt — almost exactly opposite what he wears now. Leica 21 mm f/3.4 Super-Angulon-R - 1968 (Schneider-Kreuznach design). He normally wears blue overalls on top of a red shirt, but such was not always the case. Leica 21 mm f/4.0 Super-Angulon-R - 1968-1992 (Schneider-Kreuznach design). When Mario was first conceived, he looked, more or less, as he does today: a short, plump man with the trademark hat, brown hair, black mustache and overalls. Leica 19 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 2nd version - 1990. Mario's creator Shigeru Miyamoto has also stated when interviewed that Mario wears a cap because he finds it difficult to draw hair. Leica 19 mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R 1st version. Mario's distinctive look is due to technology restrictions in the mid-'80s: with a limited number of pixels and colors, the programmers could not animate Mario's movement without making his arms "disappear" if his shirt was a solid color; they did not have the space to give him a mouth or ears; and they could not animate hair, so Mario got overalls, a moustache, sideburns, and a cap to bypass these problems. Leica 16 mm f/2.8 Fisheye-Elmarit-R - 1970. The game, however, was surprisingly successful, and when the Nintendo Entertainment System was released, Mario was given the starring role in the revolutionary Super Mario Bros. game. Leica 15 mm f/2.8 Super-Elmarit-R ASPH - 2001. During this time, Mario was thrown about from comic book to comic book, while his debut was pending. Leica 15 mm f/3.5 Super-Elmar-R - 1980 (Carl Zeiss design). Mario first appeared in the video game Donkey Kong, despite being developed as a concept character before-hand in the mid-1970s. 28-35-50 mm f/4. The pair of brothers team up in order to save Princess Peach (the grown-up version) from a group of alien invaders known as the Shroobs. Tri-Elmar-M Asph. The game explains the co-existence of the two sets of brothers in this game by saying that Mario and Luigi are sent back in time to a period when they were still babies. Macro-Elmar-M 90 mm f/4. His abilities in battle appear to be identical to those of his older self. Apo-Telyt-M 135 mm f/3.4. Baby Mario also stars in Mario & Luigi: Partners in Time with his brother, his older self, and his brother's older self. Elmarit 135 mm f/2.8. In some game modes, Baby Mario can again find the power-up that turns him into Super Baby Mario, making him temporarily invincible. Elmarit-M 90 mm f/2.8. He then rides on Yoshi's back for the rest of that level of the game. 90 mm f/2. In Yoshi Touch & Go he reclaims the role he held in Yoshi's Island; Baby Mario falls from the sky, this time held up by balloons, as the player guides him by drawing clouds down to the ground where Yoshi waits to catch him. Apo-Summicron-M Asph. More recently, Baby Mario appeared in Yoshi Touch & Go and Mario and Luigi: Partners in Time for the Nintendo DS. 75 mm f/2. If the time ran out, Mario would be kidnapped by Kamek's Toadies and Yoshi would lose a life. Apo-Summicron-M Asph. Here, Baby Mario would float within a bubble while bawling loudly, and the player controlling Yoshi would have between 1-30 seconds to recover Baby Mario and hitch him safely on Yoshi's back. Summilux-M 75 mm f/1.4. Other than this, Baby Mario is remembered for his boisterous and annoying sobs, which he did whenever Yoshi ran into an enemy. Elmar-M 50 mm f/2.8 (collapsible). However, in some levels, a power-up resembling a star allows him to transform into Super Baby Mario, giving him very high speed, relative invincibility, and the ability to float for short distances. Noctilux-M 50 mm f/1. In Yoshi's Island, Baby Mario has a rather passive role, essentially being carried around by different Yoshis for most of the game. Summicron-M 50 mm f/2. He first appeared in the Super NES game Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island where with the help of the Yoshis he saved his brother Luigi from Kamek the Magikoopa. 50 mm f/1.4. Like the older Mario, he is voiced by Charles Martinet. Summilux-M Asph. However, it is generally accepted that these games are outside the continuity of the main Mario series, and therefore do not suggest that Mario and Baby Mario are separate characters in the main storyline. 35 mm f/2. Baby Mario is the infant version of Mario, although he has appeared alongside his older self in Nintendo sports titles such as Mario Golf, Mario Tennis, Mario Superstar Baseball and Mario Kart: Double Dash!!. Summicron-M Asph. There is no definitive timeline for the events in the various games, most of which could be placed in nearly any order. 35 mm f/1.4. Over the course of his many games, Mario has rescued a number of women from captivity (including Pauline, Princess Peach, and Princess Daisy) and has become regarded as a great hero in the Mushroom Kingdom. Summilux-M Asph. Some have suggested that the brothers were taken to the "Real World" at an early age, while others disagreed this because it contradicts the other games and the Super Mario 64 guide which was written after Yoshi's Island. Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8. Newer games and manuals, however, state that he grew up in the fictional Mushroom Kingdom. 28 mm f/2. This fact, in addition to both the cartoon series and the movie, led many to believe that Brooklyn was Mario's original home. Summicron-M Asph. Here, Mario and his brother Luigi cleaned out the sewers of Brooklyn. 24 mm f/2.8. His third appearance in Mario Bros. changed his profession to plumber, which was more fitting with the pipe theme of that game. Elmarit-M Asph. In his first appearance in Donkey Kong, all that was stated was that he was a carpenter who had to save Pauline from Donkey Kong. 21 mm f/2.8. Mario is one of the most underdeveloped characters in the Mario universe however, with characters such as Bowser and Princess Peach having more complex, consistent, and unique back stories. Elmarit-M Asph. Officially, Nintendo producers have stated that Mario's biography is kept simple in order to make the character versatile, and reusable in many different games and situations. R8/R9 DMR Digital Module R (DSLR). Despite his lengthy history, Mario is in many ways an undeveloped character with many details of his accepted biography having been created through a complex lore spawned from the imaginations of comic book artists, cartoon writers, and fans. Digilux 2. . Digilux 1. D-Lux 2. In cartoons, he has been voiced by Walker Boone, Captain Lou Albano, Peter Cullen and Tōru Furuya. D-Lux. Ruben voiced him in the PC game Mario Teaches Typing. Digilux 4.3. Ronald B. Digilux Zoom. In the games, the current voice actor for Mario is Charles Martinet. Digilux. By the time of Donkey Kong Junior's production, Jumpman had officially become Mario. R8/R9 DMR Digital Module-R - 10 megapixel digital back for the R8/R9, making them the first 35 mm SLR cameras able to capture to film or digitally. After interrupting a meeting discussing this issue, Segali blasted the president of NOA, Minoru Arakawa, because the firm's rent was overdue. R9 - refinement of the R8 with 100g less weight and a new anthracite body finish. The lead character, known in Japan as "Jumpman" needed an English name. All traces of Minolta gone. When a Japanese copy of the new Donkey Kong game arrived, the NOA staff had to translate the story and character names into English. R8 - complete redesign, this time in-house with production moved back to Germany. Mario was named after Mario Segali, the landlord of Nintendo of America's Seattle home in 1981. R7 - 1992 - yet more advanced electronics. Mario's full name is believed to be Mario Mario, while his brother's full name is believed to be Luigi Mario, making them literally the "Mario Bros." According to Shigeru Miyamoto, the movie, and the television series, their surname is indeed Mario, but this issue is rarely dealt with in official Nintendo materials. R6.2 - 1992- as R6 but with refinements, including a 1/2000th shutter speed. As of September 2005, the Mario franchise has sold 184 million games, making it by far the best selling franchise in the history of video games. R6 - 1988-92 mechanical shutter, relied on battery power only for the built-in light meter. Mario first appeared in Donkey Kong, while Mario's brother Luigi first appeared in Mario Bros. R5 and R-E - 1987 - revised electronics (R5 had TTL flash capability), the RE was a simplified model. He is Nintendo's mascot, and he is almost certainly the best known video game icon in history, appearing in hundreds of games, many of them bestsellers. Leica R4 [2]. Mario (マリオ?), also known as Super Mario and originally Jumpman (ジャンプマン Janpuman?) in Japan, is a video game character created by Shigeru Miyamoto for Nintendo. The R4 offered The R4S and R4S Mod2 were simplified models at slightly lower prices. Super Mario Bros. at GameFAQs. The R4MOT differed in designation only; all R4s and up accepted motors and winders. Super Mario Wiki. The R4 offered Program mode, Aperture and Shutter Priority, and Manual, with Spot and Centerweighted metering. The R4 set the design for all cameras up to and including the R7. R4MOT/R4/R4S/R4S Mod2 - 1980 - 1987 a new compact model based upon the Minolta XD11. The first few were built in Germany and then production was transferred to the Leitz Portugal factory. R3 - the first electronic Leitz SLR - 1976 to 1980, based upon the Minolta XE1/7. The SL2 would also be the last mechanical Leica SLR for 14 years. The SL2 was the swan-song of the Leicaflexes; the SL2 reportedly cost Leitz more to manufacture than it recouped in sales, and motivated the company to collaborate with Minolta for their next series of electronic cameras. Only about 1,000 SL2 MOTs were made. The Leica Solms museum has on display an SL2 MOT with Motor and 35 mm Summicron which survived a 25,000 foot fall from a Phantom II fighter jet: battered but in one piece, and deemed repairable by Leica. Thought by some to be the toughest 35 mm SLR ever built. Leicaflex SL2/SL2 MOT - 1974 - refinement of the SL with more sensitive light meter and improved body shape. Only about 1,000 SL MOTs were made. MOT model took a large and heavy motor drive. Leicaflex SL and SL MOT - 1968 - TTL selective-area metering, slightly taller body than its predecessor, long-lived and lovely to use. There was a great deal of pressure to introduce a Leica SLR because of the phenomenal success of the Nikon F (1959). Leicaflex - 1964/5 - sometimes called the Standard - built-in external light meter, clear focusing screen with centre ground-glass spot. Program to facilitate custom-built combinations of metal finish, leather type, viewfinder magnification, and custom engraving. A La Carte Program 2004 - present. The new MP is available in chrome and black paint and with viewfinders of .58, .72 and .85 magnification. The Leicavit M is an accessory introduced with the new MP, allowing trigger wind with the right hand at speeds up to 2-2.5 frame/s. A notable improvement over the M6 was the modification of the rangefinder to eliminate flare. A homage to the original MP, the new MP (this time standing for "Mechanical Perfection") cosmetically resembles the original (even down to changing the rewind crank back to a knob!) but is functionally closer to the M6 Classic. MP - 2003 - current model (as of 2005). Same taller top plate and counter-clockwise shutter dial as the M6 TTL. Comes in .58, .72, and .85 viewfinder formats, each with different brightline framelines. Has TTL exposure, aperture priority and manual exposure, electronic shutter and two mechanical speeds of 1/60 and 1/125. M7 2002 - current model (as of 2005). The added electronics added 2 mm of height to the top plate, and the shutter dial was reversed from previous models (traditionally, turning clockwise increased shutter speed). Supported TTL flash. From 2000 the .58 viewfinder camera for eyeglass wearers are added to the line. With .72 and .85 viewfinder versions. M6 TTL - 1998 - 2002. Only 3,130 of these cameras were made (all black chrome), so they are among the rarer non-commemorative M6's. The 28 mm framelines are dropped in this model. 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 50 mm f/1.0 Noctilux and 75 mm f/1.4 Summilux. M6 0.85 - 1998. Notable for its introduction of the 0.85 magnification finder, the first high-magnification finder since 1966, and the basis for the 0.85 cameras to follow starting in 1998. A collector's edition of 1,640 cameras to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Leica M System. M6J - 1994. Informally referred to as the M6 "Classic" to distinguish it from the "M6 TTL" models, and to indicate its "Classic" M3 dimensions. 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. M6 - 1984 - 1998. Added rangefinder framelines for the 28 mm and 75 mm lenses. M4-P - 1980 - 1986. Made in Canada. No self-timer. First M with hotshoe for electronic flash. With stronger gears for the adaptation of a motor drive. First M to be manufactured since 1975. M4-2 - 1977 - 1980 (17,000 sets were manufactured). Minolta later manufactured and sold an improved electronic version, the Minolta CLE with Auto Exposure, Off-The-Film TTL metering and TTL Flash metering, together with three M-Rokkor lenses, the 40 mm f/2, 28 mm f/2.8 and 90 mm f/4. The CL is also notable for being the only M-bayonet camera to have a vertically-traveling shutter. Internal metering similar to the M5--CDS cell on a swinging stalk. Also known as the Minolta CL, Leitz-Minolta CL, introduced with 2 lenses special to that model: the 40 mm Summicron-C f2 and 90 mm Elmar-C f4. CL - 1973 - 1976 (the compact Leica). With the M4, last M camera to have a self-timer. These restrictions also held true for the Leica CL (below). For similar reasons, collapsible lenses could not be collapsed on the M5. Certain wide angle lenses (early 21 mm f4.0 and f3.4) could not be used in the camera without modification because of the possibility of damage to the rear element of the lens or the meter arm. The added functionality required a redesigned, larger body compared with the traditional M3 dimensions. First Leica with a light meter, a mechanical swinging-arm CDS cell positioned behind the lens. With added integral TTL lightmeter. M5 - 1971 - 1975 (31,400 sets were manufactured). With the M5, last M camera to have a self-timer. Introduced the canted rewind crank (the previous Ms had rewind knobs). With added rangefinder framelines for 35 mm and 135 mm lenses. M4 - 1967 - 1975 (50,000 sets were manufactured); 1974 -1975 (6,500 sets were manufactured). In 1965 replaced by the MD (with no viewfinder at all), and the MDa (based on the M4) (1967), and finally the MD-2 (based on the M4-2) (1980). A stripped version of the M2 for scientific/technical use, the M1 was a viewfinder camera with no built-in rangefinder. M1 - 1959 - 1964 (9,392 sets were manufactured). The M2 lacked the self-resetting film frame counter of its predecessor. The 0.72 magnification became the standard viewfinder magnification for future M cameras. A scaled-down and lower-cost version of the M3, the M2 had a simplified rangefinder of 0.72 magnification, allowing easier use of 35 mm lenses. M2 - 1958 - 1967 (88,000 sets were manufactured). MP originally stood for "M Professional"; the camera was intended to be a photojournalist's camera. The original MP was based on the M3 and could be fitted with a Leicavit trigger winding device. MP - 1956 - 1957 (Total 402 sets were manufactured). Early M3s lacked a frame preview selector lever to switch between framelines. The M3 advanced film via a lever rather than knob, the first M3s required two strokes to advance the film, after 1958 M3's were single-stroke. The price of this high magnification was that a 35 mm lens required "goggles" which fit in front of the view/rangefinder windows to facilitate a wider view. The M3 has a .92 magnification finder, the highest of any M camera made. In an advertisement from 1956, it was regarded as a "lifetime investment in perfect photography"; a statement that has proven to be true after more than fifty years since its release. It was the first of the M series Leicas that are still manufactured today - the first interchangeable lens bayonet style Leica body. M3 - 1954 - 1966 (Total 200,000 units manufactured) The M3 was introduced at the German Foto Kina exhibition in 1954. Leica IIIg - Produced till 1960 (Total 798,200 screwmount cameras had been made by then). Leica incorporates flash synchronization and a self timer. Leica IIIf - 1950. Leica incorporates fast shutter speeds to the shutter design. Leica IIIa - 1935. Leica incorporates slow speeds to the shutter design in this model. Leica III - 1933. Leica introduces the rangefinder in the camera with this model. Leica II - 1932. From 1930 with interchangeable lenses. Followed by Leica Luxur and Leica Compur (a total of 60,586 was made of the Leica I, Luxur and Compur). Leica I - was introduced first time to the market at the 1925 spring fair in Leipzig, based on the Ur-Leica prototype developed by Oscar in 1913 and the Prototyp 1 developed in 1923. Leica CM Zoom. Leica CM 40 mm. Leica Minilux Zoom. Leica Minilux 40 mm. C3. C2. C1. Z2X. |