Leicaflex SL: A Timeless Classic

When the word "Leica" is uttered, the immediate mental image for many is that of a sophisticated rangefinder, capturing moments with a characteristic "clink". However, Leica's history is not solely defined by its iconic M-series rangefinders. Between 1964 and 1976, Leica ventured into the Single Lens Reflex (SLR) market with the Leicaflex series. These cameras, a unique blend of Leica's renowned optical precision, the robust build quality of the M3, and the compositional advantages of an SLR, were true iconoclasts in an era where features like through-the-lens (TTL) metering, lighter materials, and interchangeable focusing screens were becoming standard. This article delves into the Leicaflex SL, exploring its genesis, features, and enduring appeal.

The Leicaflex Lineage

The Leicaflex family comprises three R-mount cameras. The journey began with the original Leicaflex in 1964. This camera can be best described as a Leica M3 equipped with a reflex mirror system and a rudimentary light meter. Its metering capabilities were somewhat limited, being accurate primarily with lenses between 28mm and 90mm, with the latter acting almost as a spot meter. A distinctive feature of the original Leicaflex is its "eye-patch" housing the battery for the metering system. Two versions of the original Leicaflex exist: Version I, identifiable by its "pie-shaped" exposure counter and screw-in tripod mount, and Version II, which features a round exposure counter and an integrated tripod mount.

As Japanese competitors like Nikon and Canon began integrating TTL metering into their offerings, Leitz responded by introducing the Leicaflex SL in 1968. The "SL" in its name stands for "Selective Light", highlighting its new TTL metering system, which allowed for far more accurate light readings. The SL also boasted a microprism focusing screen, contributing to its reputation as a tactile, user-friendly, and remarkably bright viewfinder experience. The final iteration, the Leicaflex SL2, arrived in 1974. It incorporated a second battery compartment, located below the flash sync sockets on the front of the camera, to power its more complex metering system. However, the SL2 faced some challenges, including reported shutter issues at its fastest speed of 1/2000 second and minor design concessions to Minolta, such as reshaped mirrors for certain lenses, which could render some lenses incompatible with earlier Leicaflex models without modification. The SL2 effectively marked the end of the "Old World Leica SLR" era, as its high production and sales costs significantly strained Leica's finances, paving the way for the Leitz/Minolta partnership that lasted from 1971 to around 1990.

The Leicaflex SL: A Closer Look

The Leicaflex SL, while a remarkable piece of engineering, presented a unique user experience. Its robust mirror mechanism produces a distinct and audible "clap!" upon exposure, which, while adding to its mechanical character, could be disruptive for candid street photography, often drawing attention. However, for landscape, architecture, and studio work, its substantial weight, precise focusing, and uncluttered viewfinder proved to be significant advantages. The camera does not suffer from the visual distractions of automated computer judgments, allowing the photographer to concentrate on composition.

Ergonomics and Handling

The ergonomics of the Leicaflex SL are nothing short of spectacular. Despite its considerable mass, when paired with the standard 50mm f/2 Summicron Mark I lens (produced from 1964 to 1977), the combined weight of approximately 1530g (880g for the body and 650g for the lens) is not merely a burden. This heft acts as a natural dampener, significantly reducing mirror shake and enabling handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds than might otherwise be possible. The thoughtfully designed layout places the shutter speed dial integrated with the shutter release button on the right, and the rewind dial co-located with the ISO setting dial on the left. The sparse arrangement of buttons and levers ensures that accidental adjustments are minimised, allowing for a confident grip on the camera's vulcanite covering without feeling cramped or encountering intrusive controls. The only departure from conventional SLR design is the film back release. Instead of the typical pull-up rewind dial or bottom-plate removal, the Leicaflex SL requires pressing a small button on the side and then lifting a lock bar to open the film compartment. While this ensures a secure closure, it can be a point of unfamiliarity for those accustomed to other camera systems.

The Summicron Lens

The standard Summicron lens is a testament to Leica's commitment to optical precision. Its focusing ring offers an impressive 270 degrees of throw, allowing for exceptionally fine focus adjustments from infinity down to 0.5 meters. This extensive focal throw is ideal for precisely capturing stationary subjects, portraits, and detailed architectural shots. However, for fast-paced street photography or capturing spontaneous moments, this precision can become a hindrance, making quick focusing challenging. In such scenarios, zone focusing is often the more practical approach.

A Unique Approach to Viewfinders

One of the most distinctive, and for some, controversial, aspects of the Leicaflex series, including the SL, is its fixed prism and focusing screen. In contrast to many of its contemporaries from Nikon and Canon, which offered interchangeable prisms and focusing screens to cater to diverse shooting needs, Leica opted for a fixed system. This decision stemmed from a desire to prevent dust ingress into the viewfinder, a common issue with interchangeable systems. While Leica's approach has been praised for its inherent cleanliness, it limits the user's ability to customise their viewing experience. Leica did offer an "inverted periscope" accessory that mounted to the eyepiece, providing a waist-level viewing option, which could have enhanced the camera's suitability for street photography by reducing its visual prominence. However, this accessory did alter the camera's overall aesthetic.

Potential Pitfalls and Purchasing Advice

The Leicaflex SL, like many German-engineered precision instruments, is a complex camera. It is highly advisable to purchase one from a reputable dealer specialising in Leica equipment. While bargains may be found on online marketplaces, these often come with hidden risks. Many Leicaflex cameras were used extensively by professionals and may require servicing or recalibration. The original metering system often relied on mercury batteries (PX13 or PX625), which are no longer readily available due to environmental regulations. Modern alternatives, such as alkaline batteries (e.g., LR9, equivalent to 625A), are available, but they can have different voltage characteristics and shorter lifespans. Many users opt for professional conversion services to adapt the camera to more modern, readily available batteries or to install a new, more accurate meter. Even when using modern batteries, it's beneficial to keep the film advance lever engaged when not shooting, as this deactivates the meter and extends battery life.

Key Considerations When Buying:

• Reputable Dealer: Prioritise dealers with a strong reputation in Leica sales. They often offer warranties and ensure the cameras are in good working order.
• Internal Condition: Don't be solely swayed by external aesthetics. The internal complexity of Leicaflex cameras means that even a visually appealing body might hide internal issues.
• Budget for Servicing: Factor in potential costs for cleaning, lubrication, calibration, and battery conversion. A full overhaul can easily exceed the initial purchase price of the camera body.
• Lens Release Button: For the SL model, ensure the plastic lens release button has been replaced with a more durable metal one, as the original plastic version is prone to breaking.

Leicaflex Models: A Comparative Overview

While the SL is often considered the sweet spot, each Leicaflex model offers distinct advantages:

Conclusion

The Leicaflex SL stands as a testament to a different era of camera manufacturing, one prioritising mechanical integrity and optical excellence over mass-market convenience. While its weight, loud shutter, and fixed viewfinder may not appeal to all photographers, its exceptional build quality, precise focusing, and the sheer tactile pleasure of operating such a finely crafted instrument make it a highly rewarding camera for those who appreciate its unique character. It represents a significant, albeit commercially challenging, chapter in Leica's history, offering a truly classic SLR experience that continues to captivate photographers today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: When was the Leicaflex SL released?
The Leicaflex SL was introduced in 1968.

Q2: Is the Leicaflex SL a good camera?
Yes, the Leicaflex SL is widely regarded as a very good, albeit niche, camera. It excels in build quality, optical precision, and viewfinder brightness. However, its weight, loud shutter, and lack of interchangeable components may not suit all photographers.

Q3: What were the main advantages of the Leicaflex SL over its predecessor?
The primary advantage of the SL over the original Leicaflex was the inclusion of a TTL metering system, offering significantly more accurate light readings.

Q4: What are the drawbacks of the Leicaflex SL?
Key drawbacks include its considerable weight, the loud shutter sound, the fixed focusing screen and prism (limiting customisation and potentially attracting dust), and the somewhat unconventional film back opening mechanism.

Q5: What lenses are compatible with the Leicaflex SL?
The Leicaflex SL uses the Leica R-mount. It is compatible with most Leica R-lenses, though the SL2 offers broader compatibility with later ROM-chipped lenses.