Leica II Review - A Gentleman's Camera

In this episode, I review the Leica II or Model D, one of the early Oscar Barnack Leicas produced from 1932 that already came with an integrated rangefinder, a standard flange distance supporting interchangeable Leica thread mount lenses and the so-called fast shutter speeds between 1/500s and 1/20s. As such it arguably represents the nucleus of what would make Leica cameras so successful. The Leica II was built simultaneously with the Leica III but remained in production until 1948. Based on the serial number, my black enamel version with Nickel controls here is from 1935. Despite its long production run of seventeen years, the only changes were slight mechanical improvements. Why would you purchase a 90 year old camera? Four reasons: A visually appealing design: look at this black paint and the nickel lens and controls. Black Leica M bodies have become prohibitively expensive. While the Oscar Barnack Leicas also cost a premium for a black version, they are still more affordable.  Very simple but sufficient functionality. The camera reminds me of Dieter Rams’ design principles “less but better”. The camera comes without the so-called slower shutter speeds available on later models on a dedicated dial. There are no bells and whistles. Just the basics but executed incredibly well.  Historical relevance as the first Leica model with integrated rangefinder. This was an important first that arguably laid the foundation for the Leica M3 and Leica’s success. Having a built-in coupled rangefinder made the camera easy to use and focus. It is also the first with the legendary engraving “Leica Ernst Leitz Wetzlar DRP” on the top plate. Light weight and compact dimensions. The camera only weighs around 400g and measures 30mm thick, 67mm tall and 133mm wide. This makes it comparable to much later cameras from the 1960s and 70s while offering a greater sturdiness and mechanical reliability.  I took the camera with me on several trips in the last year, among them Paris and Berlin but also Beijing and Shanghai. I shot mostly Ilford FP4 and Delta 100 but also some Kodak Gold 200 to see how the old pre-war 50mm Elmar would perform here.  To me the Leica II is a true gentleman’s camera. Quiet and subtle while offering superb, timeless quality. Let’s take a closer look at the camera, its features and the results. Gear used: Leica II with 50mm f/3.5 Elmar Films used: Ilford FP4 Ilford Delta 100 Ilford Delta 400 Kodak Gold 200 If you enjoy our videos and like to follow us on Instagram, find us here:   / analog_insights   #Leica100 #Leica100Years #leicaphotography