The Leica Motor-Drive R8 is a high-performance film advancing accessory for the Leica R8/R9, and is especially designed to be a perfect complement to the camera.

Its integrated wrist strap and its two shutter release buttons for vertical and horizontal photography add convenience to the camera-and-Motor-Drive combination in any situation. It's rubber-cushioned film advance mechanism with a load-controlled clutch prevents vibrations from being passed on to the camera body, and it only emits a very quiet, inconspicuous sound when in use.

The Motor-Drive R8 features three film advancing speeds: S (Single) is for single exposures; CL (Continuous Low) for picture sequences of up to 2 frames per second and CH (Continuous High) for picture sequences of up to 4.5 frames per second. As an alternative to manual rewinding, the Motor-Drive R8 also offers two-step motorized film rewinding.

The Motor Drive R8 and the camera are powered by the specifically designed Battery-Pack MD-R8. This compact unit encloses 8 built-in high-power NiMH rechargeable cells resulting in a capacity of more than 100 rolls of 36-exposure film including rewinding (at 68°F). It can be changed quickly and easily and is equipped with a 3-step LED-capacity indicator. The matched Quick Charger (not included) automatically switches to the prevailing mains voltage and fully charges the Battery-Pack in 1 3/4 hours (3 1/2 h in 12V-vehicles).