Leicaflex SL: A Deep Dive

The Leicaflex SL stands as a pivotal model in the history of 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras, representing Leica's response to the burgeoning popularity of SLR technology in the latter half of the 20th century. Manufactured by Leitz between 1964 and 1976, the Leicaflex series, and specifically the SL variant, aimed to blend Leica's renowned precision engineering with the functional demands of contemporary photography. While Leica was traditionally associated with its rangefinder cameras, the market's clear shift towards SLRs, exemplified by models from Nikon, Pentax, and Minolta, necessitated their entry into this competitive arena. The Leicaflex SL, introduced in 1968, addressed key criticisms of its predecessor, the original Leicaflex, most notably the absence of a through-the-lens (TTL) metering system.

Leica's foray into the SLR market was, by their own admission, somewhat reluctant. At the dawn of the 1960s, the company's reputation was built upon its exquisite rangefinder cameras. However, the undeniable rise of the SLR, offering advantages in framing accuracy and lens interchangeability for a broader range of focal lengths, could not be ignored. Competitors like the Nikon F and Asahi Pentax were capturing significant market share, pushing Leitz to develop its own SLR offering. The result was the Leicaflex, a camera that, while exceptionally well-built and finished, initially carried a premium price tag and lacked some of the advanced features of its rivals.

The Original Leicaflex: A Solid Foundation

The first Leicaflex model, often referred to as the Original Leicaflex or Leicaflex Standard, set a high bar for build quality. It was an all-mechanical camera, boasting a robust construction that promised longevity. Its key specifications included a mechanical horizontal cloth focal plane shutter with speeds ranging from 1 second to 1/2000th of a second, a three-lug bayonet mount for its lenses, and a CdS exposure meter. However, it was criticised for several omissions. It lacked TTL metering, a feature already present in competitors like the Topcon RE Super and Asahi Pentax Spotmatic. It also eschewed interchangeable viewfinders, a common feature on many contemporary SLRs, and its focusing screen, while providing a bright aerial image, offered only a small central focusing zone, making precise focusing challenging for some users. Despite these limitations, it did incorporate a mirror lock-up function and a unique continuously variable speed selection for its shutter speeds, which were visible within the viewfinder.

Visually, the original Leicaflex is identifiable by the CdS meter window and battery cover located on the front of the prism housing, just above the lens mount. It was available in chrome and a rarer black enamel finish. Collectors often distinguish between early and later production runs based on subtle design cues, such as the shape of the exposure counter window and the tripod socket attachment. A total of 32,500 serial numbers were allocated to the original Leicaflex model.

Leicaflex SL: Addressing the Critics

The introduction of the Leicaflex SL in 1968 marked a significant evolution, directly addressing the shortcomings of its predecessor. The most crucial improvement was the integration of a selective TTL metering system, which Leitz branded as "Selective Light." This system metered a specific, limited area of the viewfinder, represented by the central microprism spot. Unlike some competitors who offered stop-down metering, Leica implemented full-aperture metering on the SL, allowing for more accurate exposures even with changing apertures.

The SL also featured a revised focusing screen, incorporating a ground-glass screen with a central microprism spot. This more conventional design significantly improved focusing ease and accuracy without compromising the renowned brightness of the Leicafinder. Indeed, the viewfinder brightness of the Leicaflex SL is still considered exceptional by many photographers today.

Another notable change was the replacement of the mirror lock-up function with a depth of field preview lever. While this change rendered certain older lenses, specifically the rangefinder-derived 21mm f/3.4 Schneider Super-Angulon, incompatible without modification, it allowed for the introduction of new, retrofocus wide-angle lenses, such as the 21mm f/4 Super-Angulon, which could be used conventionally. The Leicaflex SL is easily distinguished by the prominent "SL" lettering on the front of the prism housing, which replaced the meter window of the original model. It was offered in chrome and black finishes, with the black version transitioning from an enamel finish to a more durable black chrome.

The Leicaflex SL saw several notable variants. An edition of 1,000 chrome bodies was produced for the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, featuring special markings. Some SL models were also produced for the US Navy, bearing the "NAVY" engraving on the bottom plate. A less common find is the "Attrappe" or dummy model, a display unit for retailers, lacking a serial number.

Leicaflex SL Mot and SL2: Further Refinements

Building on the SL's success, Leica introduced the Leicaflex SL Mot in black enamel and later black chrome finishes. This variant was designed to accept a motor drive, though it omitted the self-timer and the meter switch found on the standard SL. The motor drive itself was a substantial unit, matching the camera's robust build. A limited number of these, approximately 980, were produced, with some reportedly used by NASA.

The Leicaflex SL2, released in 1974, represented further refinements. Key upgrades included an aperture readout in the viewfinder, viewfinder illumination powered by an additional battery, a hot shoe for flash synchronisation, a more sensitive exposure meter, and a modified mirror mechanism to accommodate new wide-angle lenses like the 16mm f/2.8 Fisheye Elmarit-R and 19mm f/2.8 Elmarit-R. Minor cosmetic changes were also made. The SL2 was produced in chrome and black chrome finishes, with a total of 24,555 serial numbers allocated, including some SL2 Mot variants. Special "50 Jahre" (50 Years) editions were also produced in 1975 to commemorate Leica's half-century milestone.

The SL2 marked the end of the all-mechanical Leica SLR era for several years, until the introduction of the R6. It was also the last Leica SLR to be developed without significant Minolta influence, preceding the R3 which benefited from a cooperation agreement with Minolta. Despite its technical prowess and build quality, the Leicaflex SL2, like its predecessors, was expensive to produce. The cost of its high-specification shutter contributed to losses on each unit sold, making its production unsustainable amidst Leica's financial challenges in the mid-1970s. This, combined with its relative rarity compared to the SL, has made the SL2 a sought-after collector's item. For many users today, the Leicaflex SL in good condition offers the best balance of usability, performance, and value within the Leicaflex series.

Lens Compatibility: One-Cam, Two-Cam, and Three-Cam

A significant aspect of the Leicaflex system, particularly after the introduction of the SL, was the evolution of its lens mount to accommodate the new metering capabilities. The original Leicaflex lenses, designed without the need for aperture information to be communicated electronically, are known as "one-cam" lenses. The Leicaflex SL introduced a new cam to enable full-aperture TTL metering, resulting in "two-cam" lenses.

Later Leica R cameras, starting with the R3, incorporated further automation, necessitating a "three-cam" design. While mechanically, most Leicaflex and Leica R lenses can be physically mounted on different bodies, their functional compatibility with the metering and automation systems varies. Older one-cam lenses cannot take full advantage of the metering systems on SL and later bodies. However, Leica and its authorised service centres have historically offered a service to upgrade older lenses by adding the necessary cams, ensuring compatibility with newer camera bodies.

Leicaflex Technical Specifications Comparison

Here's a comparative overview of the key specifications across the Leicaflex models:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Leicaflex SL meter?

The Leicaflex SL meter refers to the selective through-the-lens (TTL) exposure metering system integrated into the Leicaflex SL camera. It measures light within a limited area of the viewfinder, specifically the central microprism spot, to determine the correct exposure.

What is the main difference between the Leicaflex and Leicaflex SL?

The primary difference is the inclusion of a selective TTL exposure meter in the Leicaflex SL, which was absent in the original Leicaflex. The SL also features an improved focusing screen with a microprism spot and a depth-of-field preview instead of a mirror lock-up.

Are Leicaflex cameras still usable today?

Yes, Leicaflex cameras, particularly the SL and SL2 models, are still very usable today. Their all-mechanical nature means they don't rely on complex electronics that can fail. However, finding them in good working condition and sourcing compatible lenses and accessories can be challenging and expensive.

What does "SL" stand for in Leicaflex SL?

"SL" stands for "Selective Light," Leica's designation for its specific implementation of selective through-the-lens (TTL) metering.

What are "one-cam," "two-cam," and "three-cam" lenses?

These terms refer to the number of cams on the lens mount that communicate aperture information to the camera body. "One-cam" lenses are for the original Leicaflex, "two-cam" lenses are for the Leicaflex SL and SL2, and "three-cam" lenses are for later Leica R cameras with more advanced automation. While physically interchangeable, full functionality requires matching cams.

In conclusion, the Leicaflex SL represents a significant step forward for Leica in the SLR market. It successfully integrated crucial features that were becoming standard, all while maintaining the exceptional build quality and optical excellence synonymous with the Leica brand. While expensive and perhaps a niche product in its time, the Leicaflex SL remains a testament to Leica's commitment to precision and a highly regarded camera among enthusiasts and collectors.