Leicaflex & Leicaflex SL Review - The Best Buy in Vintage Leica?

In this episode, Greg and I review the Leicaflex and Leicaflex SL, the first single-lens reflex cameras produced by Leitz between 1964 and 1974. The Leicaflex was late to the SLR game, quite expensive in comparison to Japanese competitors while offering less lenses and accessories - and not as advanced in terms of its features. At the time, the cameras turned out to be a commercial failure. 

From today’s perspective, the limited features can be a deliberate choice and the cameras offer access to a fantastic set of Leica R lenses. They are also finished to the highest standards, quite durable and beautifully designed. The Leicaflex SL also offers selective metering and a wonderfully bright viewfinder. Prices are very low in comparison to the remaining Leica universe. So depending on your needs, the Leicaflex and Leicaflex SL might actually be worth a close look. I would even argue they are one of the best buys you can make these days and a true bargain in the Leica universe. 

Please note that we reviewed the successor Leicaflex SL2 which was produced until 1976 a while back in case you are interested in that. The entire Leicaflex SL series was eventually replaced with the Leica R cameras that retained the R mount but were developed in cooperation with Minolta.

Greg and I took the cameras out in and around Würzburg on an overcast day shooting some Ilford HP5 pushed to ISO 800 and Ilford FP4 at box speed which we stand-developed in Rodinal. Let’s take a closer look at these two cameras, their features and our personal impressions. 

Gear used:
Leicaflex & Leicaflex SL with
35mm f/2 Summicron-R
50mm f/2 Summicron-R
90mm f/2 Summicron-R

Films used:
Ilford FP4
Ilford HP5

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