Leica M7 TTL .72 Rangefinder Camera (Black)
- No Longer Available
Born after 17 years of design, the Leica M7 TTL .72 Rangefinder Camera is a fantastic hybrid of classic Leica values with modern electronic advantages which results in a camera that's faster than ever yet still endowed with the 'soul' of a Leica. There's a certain feel to the mechanical operation of a Leica M's functions that's oddly satisfying in an emotional context, and this is the hallmark of the Leica brand. That feel has not changed, but instead been infused with aperture-priority autoexposure, an informative viewfinder, and high-speed TTL flash synchronization. The Leica M7 is as whisper-quiet, reliable, and easily focused as any Leica M camera, but now has the speed and control that only the modern accompaniments can give.
The M7's classic dimensions are identical to the M3 first introduced in 1954-a real testament to the brilliance of the design. This is a camera that's incredibly reliable and as quiet as they come, with a broad selection of available lenses in both the new and used markets. The M7 TTL, when used with Lecia-specific Metz flashes, can sync at up to 1/1000th second with TTL flash exposure control-a real improvement over prior models. The viewfinder, such an important part of the M experience, retains its classic brightness and framing lines but now unobtrusively adds information upon your shutter speed, the film speed, the exposure mode, and the flash readiness. The M7 now automatically recognizes the film speed, and provides aperture-priority autoexposure. It only needs two tiny button batteries which last a long time, but also has 1/60th and 1/125th manual shutter speeds if needed.
- Broad Lens Availability
- A large assortment of high-performance lenses is available, ranging from 21-135mm and with speeds as fast as f/1.0.
- Solid Dependability
- Extremely reliable performance, even under adverse conditions.
- Quiet & Discreet
- The electronically-controlled, rubberized cloth shutter is still remarkably quiet, yet as accurate as a modern vertical-travel metal shutter.
- Fast & Flexible Flash Capability
- Flash speeds of up to 1/1000th/second - with dedicated Metz flash units - give the Leica shooter the option of daylight fill-flash with large background-blurring apertures.
- Classic Viewfinder with Electronic Upgrades
- The improved viewfinder still displays classic framelines and manual metering, yet unobtrusively provides information on shutter speeds, film-speed setting, exposure mode & flash readiness along the bottom.
- Adjustable-Brightness Viewfinder
- Viewfinder information brightness is automatically adjusted to match ambient light conditions.
- Auto Film Recognition
- Recognizes DX film coding.
- All-Mechanical Operation Option
- Two all-mechanical shutter speeds of 1/60th & 1/125th/second are available, for batteryless performance.
- Broad Range of Shutter Speeds
- Stepless shutter speeds range from 1/1000th/second - 32 seconds in aperture-priority autoexposure mode, for quick adjustments with total control for the photographer.
- Classic Styling
- The M7 retains the classic Leica M proportions shared by the M3, M4 & M6 series cameras.
| Type | 35mm Interchangeable-lens rangefinder camera |
| Lens Mount | Leica M bayonet |
| Focus Modes | Manual only |
| Exposure Modes | Manual & Aperture-priority |
| Exposure Metering | TTL (through-the-lens) selective centerweighted |
| Metering Range | EV -2 to EV +20 with f/1.0 lens at ISO 100 |
| ISO Range | 6-6400 (DX coding with ISO from 25-5000) |
| Shutter Speed | 1/1000th/second - 1 Second + Bulb |
| PC Terminal | Yes |
| Flash Mounting |
Hot shoe - X-sync at up to 1/50th sec with TTL (through-the-lens) flash metering capability Speeds of up to 1/1000th/second are available when used with an appropriate Metz flash unit with a SCA 3502 adapter. |
| Film Transport | Manual with lever |
| Viewfinder | 0.72x magnification (meaning that what you see in the viewfinder appears to be 72% of lifesize). Brightline frames for 28, 35, 50, 75, 90, and 135mm lenses automatically engage with attachment of the lens. Optional viewfinders for 21 and 24mm lenses mount in the flash shoe. |
| Viewfinder Info | LED symbols for Flash status, Exposure mode, Film speed, Shutter speed, Lighting exceeding metering range & Classic > / 0 / < manual metering |
| Diopter Correction | Available optionally from -3 to +3 |
| Self Timer | No |
| Remote Control | Possible with optional standard mechanical cable release. |
| Multiple Exposure | No |
| Power Source | Two 3V 2L76 (DL 1/3N) lithium batteries |
| Dimensions | 5.4 x 3.1 x 1.5" (138.0 x 79.5 x 38mm) WxHxD |
| Weight | 1.23 lbs (610g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 3 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
Reviewed by 3 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-3
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Leica M7 TTL .72 Rangefinder Camera (Black):
I have used Leica rangefinders since the mid-1990's (M6, M6TTL and MP). The reasons that pushed me into rangefinders in the first place was the mechanical nature of the camera, and the superior optics. I've since learned to appreciate the near instantaneous shutter and lack of mirror vibration. About 6 months ago I price up a demo M7 at a great price. I've shot about 50 rolls of slide film and have not had any problems. The AE is convenient, the exposures have been good, and the camera is quick and easy to use.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Quiet Operation
- Strong Construction
Cons
Best Uses
- Photojournalism
Comments about Leica M7 TTL .72 Rangefinder Camera (Black):
I have had my M7 for 1/2 year and have had no problems with it. It's been running very smoothly. My only recommendation is to stock up on batteries - they run out faster than on any of my other cameras.
Comments about Leica M7 TTL .72 Rangefinder Camera (Black):
I purchased my M7 from B&H Photo in NYC on 12/27/2006 and used it about two weeks when I noticed lint inside the back eyepiece and in the front viewfinder. I contacted Leica US Repair and sent it to them on 1/22/07. On 2/7/07 I received my camera back but there was now a very noticeable speck or particle inside the eyepiece -- one that was not even there when I sent it in for first cleaning / repair. I re-contacted Leica US Repair and sent my camera back. Eventually the camera was cleaned and the eyepiece seal was fixed.I thought I was now able to begin using and enjoying my Leica M7. But a couple weeks into having my camera back I began to notice scratching / marking on my negatives (confirmed by the lab I use that it is nothing they do). I also noticed peculiarities with the DX coding / value (the DX value flashes when it should not, etc.). I wont bore you with all the details. Suffice to say, the camera now needs to be returned to Germany for repair. I was told it would take about 8 weeks. After a couple letters to Leica Germany, I got a replacement M7 #2946364.Well, my replacement M7 has the same issues. I got lint inside the back eyepiece and in the front viewfinder. I suspect that the eyepiece seal is defective on this M7 as it was on my first one.And as with my original M7, I am again seeing peculiarities with the DX coding / value - the DX value flashes when it should not (according to the manual). Note that I use primarily Ilford XP2 Super (400 ASA and DX coded). With fresh batteries (those sent with the camera), when the film speed dial is on automatic DX, the value 400 flashes as if exposure compensation has been set even though it hasnt. I also see the decimal display LED in the viewfinder flashing as though the batteries are low, though they are fresh.When I change the film speed dial to manual 400, things seem fine. When I change the dial back to DX, shortly thereafter, the flashing begins again.I sent this camera back to Leica USA. They had it since 7/11. On 7/30 I finally got a call that it will be 5-6 weeks for repair.I am sorry I bought an M7 and would NOT recommend this camera to anyone else.
Expertise: Advanced
Problems Encountered: M7 #2945506 Purchase:12/27/06Repair #s V62767, V63373, V65951
Previous Equivalent Item Owned: Canon, Nikon, Contax, Yashica, etc.
Displaying reviews 1-3
Film
Required item: Film is not included-be sure to load your camera with the best film for the shot you need.
Lenses
Required item: Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.
This item is backordered by the manufacturer.
Batteries & Power
Be sure to get batteries so you don't get caught without power.
- Price: $5.49
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.
- Price: $64.95
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $21.99
What's in the Box
- Neck Strap
- Body Cap
- 2 x DL1/3N 3V Lithium Battery
- 5-Year Limited Warranty
- 3-Year Passport Warranty
Why Shop at B&H
Make your online shopping trip personal with our online Live Chat representatives. You can easily reach an in-house expert while browsing our site for your shopping needs. We have the most highly-trained staff in the industry who are pros in their fields, and their professional expertise will help you get the most from your purchase.
Place your domestic order with us for shipment via UPS, FedEx Economy, or FedEx Priority by 4 PM ET Monday through Thursday or 11 AM ET Friday and your order will be shipped that day. Visit our Shipping Delivery Times page for further details. Delivery times are subject to payment verification.
We appreciate your purchase from us, and we understand that sometimes the products you buy don’t turn out to be the right choice for you. We guarantee your peace of mind with our 30-day return policy. With no standard restocking fee and few restrictions, you’ll enjoy a return process as easy as shopping with us. Please visit our Return Policy page for further details.
We’ve made iPhone and Android mobile apps available for your service and shopping convenience. Use filtered search to find and purchase almost any item we sell and ship worldwide. Download product manuals and guides for many popular items. See high-resolution product images in close-up detail. Manage wishlists and view order history. Visit our Mobile Apps page to download.
See sample Newsletter
Help
Company Information
B&H Resources
