Mike Johnston wrote:
> Anyone know yet what the serial number
> range of LX's ended up being?
The one I bought about a year ago had the number 5359***, and
one that was about a year older, based upon its original
purchase date, is numbered 5351*** I have one numbered
532**** and that has the older shutter. However, some older
bodies were retrofitted with the new shutter box, and, it
seems, that the serial number on the base plate is not always
sequential to production. Nonetheless, you'll do well to look
for numbers above 5355*** to be sure you're getting the latest
model.
> As for the above, I've always thought that Pentaxes
> are the SLR equivalent of Leicas. Actually I held that
> opinion about the Spotmatics
I was astonished when I got my first Leica - an M3.
Side-by-side with a Spotmatic one could see a remarkable
number of similarities in design, size, weight, and
ergonomics. Apart from the pentaprism, both cameras are about
the same height, the Spotmatic is just a scosh wider, and the
depth of their bodies are just about identical, with the
exception of the protruding area where the Pentax lens mount
is. They both have their edges rounded to one degree or
another, allowing for a comfortable grip. What this means is
that they feel quite similar when being held in shooting
position. Weigh each body without their lenses. The Leica
actually feels a little heavier. Specs I've seen put the M3
at 595 grams, the Pentaxes just before the Spotmatic at about
575 grams, and the Spotmatic at about 600 grams. Add a 50mm
lens of their time, and their balance is very similar, too.
These two cameras have much in common considering that they
sprang from two entirely different cultures and are of
different designs. IOW, both Pentax and Leica got the basic
design - the ergonomics - right. Both feel very comfortable
in the hand, both have controls that are easy to use and feel
properly located for most people, and both are respected and
sometimes even coveted forty and fifty years later. Both the
Leica M2/3/4 and the early Pentaxes were built conservatively,
with thought towards simplicity, durability, and longevity.
Both are, IMO, examples of elegant design.
> Boy, would this ever get me in trouble over on
> the Leica list. Please, nobody quote me. <g>
You're already in trouble over there. Your name has come up a
few times and has sparked "spirited" debate amongst the pro-
and con- Johnston factions.
--
Shel Belinkoff
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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