Leica M5 chrome 2 Lug Ex+/Ex++ / Free shipping

Leica M5 Silver Chrome – Camera Body Only (Nr. 1345289)  Two‑Lug Version A clean, classic M‑series rangefinder ready to shoot and inspire.

Overview

This Leica M5 silver chrome body (serial 1345289) is the desirable two‑lug version, perfect for everyday shooting with a strap. It comes with the original Leica body cap and has been fully checked—everything works as it should.

Condition

• Working shutter — Speeds sound accurate across the range
• Functional light meter — Responsive and consistent
• Rangefinder — Clear, contrasty, properly aligned
• Cosmetics — Clean overall with a minor bump on the plate (purely cosmetic)
• Two camera lugs — Ideal for comfortable strap use
• Body cap included — Protects the mount when not in use

Why This M5 Is Special

The M5 is Leica’s most underrated M‑body built like a tank, with the most advanced metering system of any classic M. This one is fully functional, smooth to operate, and ready to shoot. Load a roll and let it create some magic moments.

Included

• Leica M5 silver chrome body
• Original Leica body cap

• Camera Type: 35mm rangefinder camera
• Lens Mount: Leica M‑mount (interchangeable lenses)
• Production Years: 1971–1975
• Manufactured by: Ernst Leitz GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany
• Total Production: Approx. 35,405 units (inference based on production run data)
• Available Finishes: Silver chrome & black chrome (first M‑series to use black chrome)
• Lug Versions: Early 2‑lug, later 3‑lug models

Dimensions & Weight

• Width: 150–157 mm (varies slightly by source)
• Height: 78–84 mm
• Depth: 36–42 mm
• Weight: ~640–700 g (body only)

Viewfinder & Rangefinder

• Type: Brightline frame viewfinder with automatic parallax compensation
• Magnification: 0.72×
• Framelines: 35mm, 50mm, 90mm, 135mm (parallax‑corrected)
• Rangefinder Base Length: 68.5 mm (effective 49.32 mm)
• Notes: Shutter speeds visible inside the viewfinder — a first for Leica M cameras.

Shutter System

• Type: Mechanically timed, horizontal‑travel cloth shutter
• Speed Range:
  • 1/2s to 1/1000s + Bulb (B)
  • Meter‑timed long exposures up to 30 seconds (manual timing)
• Flash Sync:
  • 1/50s X‑sync for electronic flash
  • Separate sockets for M‑bulb and X‑sync flash
• Notable Feature:
  • Considered the quietest shutter in the M‑series due to slower curtain travel.

Metering & Exposure

• Meter Type: TTL (Through‑The‑Lens) spot/center‑weighted metering using a CdS cell on a swing arm behind the lens
• Exposure Mode: Manual only (needle‑match system)
• ISO Range: 6–3200 ASA
• Battery: PX625 mercury cell (original spec)
• Meter Range: 21 steps from 1/1000s to 30s (meter timing)

Film Handling

• Film Format: 35mm (36×24 mm frame)
• Film Advance: Rapid wind lever, single or multiple short strokes
• Film Loading: Improved rapid‑load spool (easier than M4)
• Rewind: Manual crank recessed into bottom plate
• Self‑Timer: Mechanical, 5–10 seconds (last M‑series with mechanical timer)

⚡ Flash & Accessories

• Hot Shoe: Yes, with X‑sync contact
• PC Terminals: Separate X and M sync ports on back of top plate
• Accessory Compatibility:
  • All standard Leica M lenses with some limitations for 21mm & 28mm lenses (requires external finder for 28mm metering)

🧩 Design & Ergonomics

• Larger, more ergonomic body than M2/M3/M4 to accommodate TTL metering system
• Oversized shutter speed dial overhangs front for one‑finger operation while shooting
• Shutter speeds visible in viewfinder for intuitive exposure control

📝 Historical Significance

• First Leica M with TTL metering — a major technological leap
• Last Leica M built entirely in Wetzlar using traditional “adjust‑and‑fit” craftsmanship
• Initially controversial due to size and design departure, but now considered one of the most underrated Leica M bodies (inference based on historical reception)