Leica M8.2

• Introduced in 2008²⁸²
• The new shutter is quieter and features lower kinetic forces due to a reduction in the travel speed of the blades. However, this change means that the maximum shutter speed is now 1/4000th of a second, down from the previous 1/8000th of a second. Additionally, the maximum flash sync speed has been reduced to 1/180th of a second, compared to the earlier 1/250th of a second²⁸².
• The camera also includes an auto ISO function that increases the ISO setting automatically if light levels fall below what is necessary for correct exposure. Users can set a minimum preferred shutter speed and a maximum ISO setting to be used in conjunction with this feature²⁸².
• A delayed wind-on feature can be activated in the main menu, which "holds" the wind-on until you lift your finger off the shutter release. This design allows you to avoid the noise of the wind-on drive in tricky situations, such as when you want to muffle the sound by keeping the camera under your coat²⁸².
• Additionally, the new 'S' function simplifies many of the settings for users who want to operate the M8.2 as a high-end point-and-shoot camera. The viewfinder frames have also been optimized for a 2-meter focusing distance instead of the 0.7 meters used in the M8²⁸².
• Some cosmetic changes have been made as well. Notably, a new ‘vulcanite’ covering has been introduced, and the black model features black paint with a black dot Leica logo, replacing the red dot logo that was previously on the front of the camera. There is also a stronger detent to prevent accidental movement of the shutter switch into the delayed action position. The viewing screen has been updated to use ultra-hard ‘sapphire’ glass for improved scratch resistance²⁸².
• A quick procedure for setting exposure compensation has also been implemented. You can do this by holding the shutter release at the first pressure point while rotating the control dial²⁸².
• In 2003, a Leica M8.2 with the special serial number 3555555 was awarded to Woody Allen³⁵⁶.
• The M8.2, released shortly after the M8, restored the M System's reputation with a shutter that, while slightly slower, was significantly quieter. Over time, Leica continued to reduce the shutter noise in its digital M models. From today's perspective, the M8 might seem like an interim solution, always intended to be replaced by a more advanced version. This transition could explain why many M8 photographers quickly upgraded to subsequent models, which likely affected the M8's resale value in the pre-owned market. For modern M photographers, a crop sensor may not hold much appeal. However, the importance of the Leica M8 as a pivotal milestone in the M System's evolution cannot be overstated³⁵⁷.
• The M8 was a camera for which Leica navigated numerous technical challenges, representing an impressive achievement at the time. It was well-received by customers and laid the groundwork for the digital future of the rangefinder system. In fact, had the M8 not enjoyed such success, it is possible that we would never have seen another digital M camera³⁵⁷.
• Produced from 2008 to 2009, the Leica M8.2 featured a quieter, albeit somewhat slower shutter, achieving a speed of at least 1/4000 of a second. This shutter would only engage when the photographer released their finger from the shutter button. Additionally, the rear display was crafted from high-quality sapphire glass. M8 owners had the option to upgrade their cameras to the M8.2, with some opting for this upgrade to enjoy the rare black Leica logo on the front³⁵⁷.
• Special Editions of Leica M8.2: