Leica M-A

The Leica M-A, introduced in 2014, is essentially an M-P film camera with some important modifications. It does not have a light meter or a battery. One notable feature is the inner dial, which has two sides: one black and one red. This design serves to indicate whether you have color or black-and-white film loaded, helping you remember if the camera has been set aside for a while. The Leica M-A is available in both black chrome and silver chrome finishes, with a price tag of $4750 USD³⁰².

Before the resurgence of analogue photography, Leica introduced the M-A, which is based on the Leica MP and is still available today. The Leica M-A represents a commitment to analogue photography and emphasizes high-quality, long-lasting mechanics. Unlike the MP, which includes a light meter and uses a minimal amount of electronics and a battery, the M-A operates purely mechanically. This design adheres to the tradition of earlier M models, such as the M3 or M4³⁵⁷.

By eliminating all electronic components, photographers can trust that the Leica M-A will perform reliably, even in challenging conditions and extreme temperatures. The rangefinder, which features coated optical surfaces, and the robust control knob for rewinding the film are derived from the MP and are engineered for maximum durability. The mechanically controlled, rubberized cloth shutter ensures a unique, almost silent operation that has always distinguished analogue M models from other cameras. Furthermore, the M-A excludes the iconic red dot found on the front, similar to the digital P models, enhancing its discreet appearance³⁵⁷.

In summary, the M-A serves as a purely mechanical alternative to the MP. It is more purist and reliable, though it may be somewhat less versatile. In both cases, however, prioritizing maximum service life remains a key requirement³⁵⁷.

Special Editions of Leica M-A:

Model	Name	References	Year	Quantity	Notes
M-A	Edition 100	357	2014		Part of Leica M Monochrom and Leica M-A "Edition 100" set…celebration of 100 years of Leica photography. The special edition included a Leica M Monochrom and a Leica M-A, both made of solid stainless steel and with a special engraving on the top plate. The three lenses included in the set were also made of the same mate-rial: Summilux-M 28, 35 and 50 f/1.4. The set was delivered in a black anodised aluminium case by Rimowa and with a Kodak Tri-X 400 black and white film.
M-A	Leica Shop Vienna	357	2016	25	on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Leica Shop in Vienna, Leica Camera produced this special series of the M-A in hammertone finish. The camera was delivered as a set with a silver anodised Noctilux-M 50 f/0.95 ASPH. and a Leica Meter MR-4, also painted in hammertone finish. A special numbering (XX/25) was engraved on the hot shoe
M-A	Titan	357	2022		the camera offered as a set and the APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH. were both made of solid titanium. Special numbering was also engraved on the hot shoe.
M-A	Platin "Edition 70" (Platinum)	357	2024	250	this special edition was produced to mark the 70th anniversary of the Leica M series. The camera is characterised by a platinum-plated surface and has a black armour made of high-quality imitation leather. The control wheels have a classic cross knurling. The words "Ernst Leitz Wetzlar Germany" are engraved on the top of the top plate. The set includes a platinum-plated APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH., whose styling and engravings are adapted to older M lenses, as well as a Leicavit M fast-winding lens, also platinum-plated. The camera, lens and Leicavit bear a special serial number. The set is delivered with a platinum-plated film canister.