Advice buying digital Leica

[enivre]

Hi guys,

I've always wanted to get a digital Leica but it was not useful for me when I was shooting full time, but now that I am not however I am contemplating on getting one. Was hoping to get some advice.

Firstly is which camera to buy, the M9 or M9-P. If money wasn't an issue of course I would go with the M9-P but 2nd hand M9s are about 2k++ cheaper than a brand new M9-P. Is it worth the difference? I can invest the difference in some lenses or accessories instead.

I've heard that there is a risk in getting a 2nd hand M9 due to warranty issues as well as camera defects, not sure how big a concern this is. I'm not a collector so I don't need it to be pristine, I need it to work as it should considering the price I'm paying. I'll probably gaffer the red-dot anyway.

If brand new, what's a good place to get one? Hong Kong is an option but I'm injured and won't be flying anytime soon and as a result not in a hurry to get one, maybe I should just wait for the price to settle down for the M9-P.

Okay any advice will be appreciated.

Thanks!
Ervine

 

[artspraken]

Difference between M9 and m9 p is cosmetic. The dot, the lcd and the top plate is different.

Whether to buy new or resale is a money issue for you. There is no clear choice. It depends on your priorities. Obviously buying resale carries risk - this applies to everything not just cameras

Where to buy - well anywhere is fine really. Dealers, retailers, buysell clubsnap, ebay or other websites.

 

[Dfive]

I bought my M9-P at the Leica Store SG last week...... and yes Im happy i got it.

 

[enivre]

Yeah I was thinking that the cosmetic differences don't warrant the price difference (save for maybe the sapphire glass)

If I decide to go 2nd hand, what are the key factors to look out for?

 

[Dfive]

The reason I wen for the M9-P is the better grip and near unbreakable / scratch proof screen..... I travel so much so those two points sold it to me the day it was announced.

Why don't you look for an M8.2 ( Ben Photo had one last week. ) or a second hand M9 ???

 

[nex100]

you can buy 2nd hand M9 and the warranty is transferrable to you. also you can top up some cash and add 1 extra year of warranty on leica's website

 

[enivre]

M8 & 8.2s are out, will definitely want a full frame.

Will consider a 2nd hand M9, just waiting for price to tumble down enough.