Leica Leicaflex SL (1968–1974)
A 35mm SLR camera made by Leica from 1968 to 1974. It has a horizontal cloth focal-plane shutter and TTL metering powered by a mercury battery.
Overview
The Leica Leicaflex SL is a 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera made by Leica from 1968 to 1974. It was built as an advanced system camera for professional and enthusiast photographers, with through-the-lens (TTL) metering and a sturdy mechanical build. It uses the Leicaflex bayonet mount and takes interchangeable lenses. The versions differ in things like the lens release mechanism and the position of the film advance lever. Over 70,000 units were sold during its production run.
Specifications
| Product type | 35mm SLR camera |
| Production years | 1968–1974 |
| Shutter type | Horizontal cloth focal-plane |
| Shutter speeds | 1 to 1/2000 sec., B |
| ISO range | 8 – 6400 |
| Dimensions | 148 x 97 x 57 mm |
| Weight | 770 g |
| Film format | 135 (35mm film) |
| Lens mount | Leicaflex bayonet |
Design
The Leicaflex SL has a focal-plane shutter. The light meter cell sits on the floor of the mirror box and needs a mercury battery to work. Repair procedures are similar to those of the earlier Leicaflex Standard, particularly on later versions. The meter cell may be ribbed or flat, depending on the version. Some models have a "3 Position Advance" mechanism, and there are at least four known versions of the Leicaflex SL.
Context
Market
Used Leicaflex SL bodies have sold for as low as $169.00 and as high as $300 in recent years. Known problems include inconsistent shutter timing at 1 and 1/2 second, which some users report as common, and light meter trouble. The meter was originally designed around mercury batteries, and since those are no longer available, that may affect how it works today.
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