For those unfamiliar with the Leica world, the M4-2 is simply a Leica. For some hardcore fans of the brand with the red dot, it may be a less desirable Leica than others. This is reflected in its second-hand price, which is significantly lower than that of other Leicas. But is this justified? I wanted to form my own opinion and decided to give this model a try. Here, I’ll share the features of this high-end rangefinder and my experience with it.
Background on the Leica M4-2’s Release
Produced from 1977 to 1981, the M4-2 either marked the end of the classic M line or Leica’s return to the right path and the brand’s salvation. Or perhaps both.
The M5, released a few years earlier in 1971, was a variation on the classic M body that was not well received by the market. The Liecaflex SLR showed that Leica was neither Nikon nor Canon. It was not very successful. The CL joint venture with Minolta was a market success but wasn’t as profitable as Leica would have liked. By all accounts, the company was in trouble. Leica relaunched production of the M4 as a stopgap measure, then introduced a redesigned, more economical (i.e., more profitable) model, the M4-2.
“Made in Canada” Leica making its debut with its “hot shoe”/flash mount
There were a variety of changes, some cosmetic, such as the switch from an engraved top plate to a stamped top plate. But the real change was the shift away from hand-assembled, custom-fitted parts in favor of mass-produced parts and assemblies. Production was also relocated to Canada. The move to Canada wasn’t new—cameras had already been built there—but the assembly method and changes in production parts posed a challenge.
The back of my Leica M4-2 has been customized with brown leather
Between the design changes (perceived by many as downgrades) and the quality issues stemming from changes in parts and manufacturing, the M4-2 is seen as a less desirable M by some and as a good deal by others. Only 16,000 units were produced, the lowest of the major M series. Without these issues, the lower production volume would have been easier to achieve. Without these issues, the low production volume would have been enough to drive up the price due to relative scarcity.
My opinion:
If I compare the M4-2 to an M4/M2/M3, can I see a difference in quality? Yes, perhaps. But to what extent does that depend on perception or specific units?
Is the M4-2 still a fantastic camera? Yes.
Will your friends, who all use Leica MP or M3 models, find you less likable because you show up with an M4-2? If so, you might need some new friends.
Why did I choose the M4-2 model?
Ideally, I was tempted by the M6 for its compactness—a compact, well-built rangefinder camera equipped with a built-in light meter. But here’s the thing: I’m far from the only one looking for this combination, and the body is a legend among many film photography enthusiasts. After all these years, the light meter can sometimes act up. Since the rest of the camera is 100% mechanical, it’s very reliable over time. I figure that, ultimately, the M4-2 combines all these qualities—except for the light meter—and that the price difference isn’t justified for my needs. Especially since I love and use another small compact rangefinder and film SLRs with great pleasure.
Leica M6 vs. M4-P comparison
The Leica M6 and M4-2 side by side: similar in size but with a few differences in features that you can find here.
Price of the Leica M4 in 2024
The M4-2 doesn’t need to be the pinnacle of Leica glory to be a good camera, and that perception helps keep the price below other Leicas in the M series. I got good results, and it performed like a Leica. Was it the smoothest Leica I’ve ever shot with? No, but it was also one of the cheapest and a more affordable entry into the world of the Leica M. I can’t say the same for the Leica M6.
In practice, I’ve often seen them go for around 1,300 to 1,500 euros. With a little luck, there might be one up for auction on eBay for 1,000 euros. If you’re quick, it could be yours!
So don’t dismiss the M4-2 because of its bad reputation; for me, it’s a great entry point into the world of Leica M cameras. If you’re satisfied with the experience and want to take it further, or absolutely need a light meter, you’ll understand why it’s worth spending so much on a film rangefinder!
My photos taken with the Leica M4-2
Having purchased this camera in the summer, I chose Kodak Color 200 film to make the most of the beautiful light.
I’m currently using a 35mm Voigtländer Ultron f2 lens (available for purchase here). I was pleasantly surprised by the image quality and sharpness. It’s sharp—very sharp, in fact—compared to other film cameras I use.