Dear Leica,

We, the undersigned, are passionate about photography.

We have a strong affinity for the Leica M system, which is comprised of compact and ergonomically superior 35mm rangefinder cameras and lenses capable of producing unparalleled image quality.  We appreciate the heritage, craftsmanship and attention to detail involved in the manufacturing of Leica M products.  And we are aware that Leica is steadfast and unwavering in its pursuit of excellence.

We are humbly writing to you with a request:

 

Please consider placing an updated CCD sensor in a future Leica M camera.

–

We believe that this would be in keeping with the principles mentioned above, and would be consistent with the ethos of the Leica M as a unique image-creating device.

We believe the CCD sensor, at low ISO values, offers superior performance with respect to micro-contrast and tonal transition rendering.   We have little need for high ISO performance, because we understand that — for the documentary photography most rangefinder photographers practice — a CCD sensor coupled to a fast aperture lens will produce superior results.  We’ve reached this conclusion by trusting our eyes.

We place an emphasis on high quality still image photography, and therefore have little interest in video.  We value the intuitive, quick, and precise rangefinder focusing mechanism, and therefore have little interest in Live View.

In our photographic and artistic pursuits, we believe that less is more.

Since we have a vested interest in the Leica brand, we wish for Leica to succeed.  We therefore hope that a future M model with a CCD sensor would help Leica further differentiate itself, in an environment where CMOS sensor-based cameras abound, and where the digital output amongst the leading camera manufactures appears similar, and similarly inferior.

Finally, we notice and applaud the ergonomic improvements of the new Leica M240 model, and would welcome similar improvements in processor speed, shutter quietness, LCD quality, and weather resistance in a CCD based M model.  But we place these considerations secondary to image quality.

Leica has always done things a little differently, by placing simplicity and quality above all other considerations.  As a consequence, Leica has traditionally wisely avoided making decisions based on a “focus group” philosophy.

We are requesting for this fierce independence in thinking and product differentiation to continue.

Sincerely,

WE THE UNDERSIGNED PASSIONATE LEICA SUPPORTERS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, AND CUSTOMERS.–

(those wishing to sign, please do so in the comments section)

—Peter.

–

–