Leica M6 - Black

Leica M6: Write Your Story

Leica M6 – An Icon of Analogue Photography
The legendary Leica M6 stands as a symbol of analogue excellence. Compact, intuitive, and discreet, it lets photographers get close to the action and capture genuine emotions. Since its debut in 1984, the M6 has been the preferred camera of many of the world’s greatest photographers, resulting in countless iconic images.

The Rangefinder – The Heart of Every Leica M Camera

The rangefinder defines every Leica M camera, offering a bright, high-contrast view that lets you see beyond your final frame. It provides a broader view of your scene, putting you in full control of focus and exposure. The M6’s 0.72x mechanical rangefinder, handcrafted from over 100 individual parts, ensures precision with selective exposure metering through the lens. The light balance is visible in the lower part of the viewfinder, and focusing is achieved using either the superimposed image or split image method—both effective even in low-light conditions.

Always Ready for the Decisive Moment

See more, react faster. The M6’s rangefinder technology allows you to observe your scene beyond the frame, making it easier to capture the perfect moment. Illuminated framelines outline the image field for six focal lengths (28 and 90 mm, 35 and 135 mm, 50 and 75 mm), which adjust automatically when you attach a lens. The field selector also lets you view framelines for other focal lengths, enabling you to choose the right perspective before pressing the shutter.

Timeless, Iconic Design

Leica M cameras are known not just for capturing timeless images but for being icons in their own right. The M6 combines elegant simplicity with high-quality materials for an unmistakable design that endures. Features like scratch-resistant lacquer, a solid brass top cap, and robust leatherette ensure longevity. The glass surfaces have an anti-reflective coating to minimise scattered light interference. The new M6 generation, true to its 1984 roots, proudly displays the red Leitz logo.

Enduring Value and Quality

Fads come and go, but true quality is timeless. Leica cameras and lenses embody values of durability, reliability, and precision. Made from high-grade materials and crafted with exceptional mechanics, Leica equipment stands as a testament to quality "Made in Germany." Each camera is a precision tool, made by hand, with the singular goal of giving photographers maximum creative freedom.

A Milestone in Leica’s History

From 1984 to 2002, nearly 175,000 units of the Leica M6 were produced, helping some of the world’s best photographers document history. The current Leica M6, still made by hand in Germany, continues to serve as a reliable companion for those who cherish the art of analogue photography.

LEICA M6 Specifications

• Designation: Leica M6
• Camera Type: Analogue rangefinder system camera (35 mm)
• Type No.: 2248
• Order No.: Black: 10 557
• Material: Full metal housing; top and bottom covers made of brass with a black finish
• Lens Mount: Leica M bayonet
• Operating Conditions: 0°C to +40°C
• Interfaces: ISO accessory shoe
• Tripod Thread: 1/4" DIN 4503 with stainless steel base
• Dimensions: 138 x 40 x 77 mm
• Weight: 575 g (without battery)

Viewfinder and Focusing

• Viewfinder: Large, bright-line rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation
• Parallax Compensation: Automatically adjusts for differences between viewfinder and lens, ensuring congruence between the viewfinder and actual image
• Magnification: 0.72x (all lenses)
• Rangefinder: Split and superimposed image rangefinder, displayed as a bright field in the viewfinder centre

Shutter and Film Handling

• Shutter Type: Mechanically controlled focal plane shutter with rubber liner
• Shutter Speeds: 1 s to 1/1000 s; flash sync up to 1/50 s
• Shutter Release: Two-stage (power up and release), with integrated cable release thread
• Film Loading: Manual (with quick wind lever or LEICAVIT M); motorised options available
• Rewinding: Manual with telescopic rewind knob
• Frame Counter: Automatic reset upon removing the bottom cover

Exposure and Flash

• Exposure Metering: TTL metering through the lens, with a silicon photodiode and selective metering spot
• Film Speed Range: ISO 6/9° to ISO 6400/39°, set manually
• Metering: Centre spot metering (13% of the negative area)
• Exposure Control: Manual, with LED light balance display
• Flash Connection: Accessory shoe
• Sync Speed: 1/50 s, with slower speeds possible
• Flash Control: Manual or computer-controlled via flash unit

Power Supply

• Battery: 2 silver oxide button cells (PX76/SR44) or 1 lithium battery (DL1/3N)

The Leica M6 continues to be a cherished instrument for analogue photography, giving you the means to write your story in images that last a lifetime.