The Leica M (Typ 262) was introduced in December of 2015318 and was produced until 2019357. At its introduction, it was considered a reduced cost model318.
The Leica M (Typ 262) represents a careful refinement of existing features357. Technically, it shares most characteristics with its predecessor, the Leica M (Typ 240)357. Both models utilize the same 24-megapixel CMOS image sensor with a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6400, ensuring consistent image quality between the two357.
However, the Leica M (Typ 262) emphasizes the original values of the Leica M series357. This focus resulted in a simpler operation, eliminating unnecessary controls357. Notably, the complete film mode and Live View capabilities found in the Leica M (Typ 240), along with their associated controls and menu items, have been removed357. Additionally, Leica M (Typ 262) is not compatible with the electronic clip-on viewfinder, as its connections are absent357.
The manual selection lever for the rangefinder framelines, present in the M (Typ 240), is also missing in Leica M (Typ 262)357. The design features a streamlined housing, lacking controls such as the secondary shutter release for video, which gives it a resemblance to the Leica M9357. This strategy of removal has resulted in significantly simpler menus and a weight reduction of about 80 grams compared to the M (Typ 240)357. Overall, the Leica M (Typ 262) revisits the essence of classic photography357.
Special Editions
Leica M (Typ 262) "Red" , produced in 2017, is special edition of the M (Typ 262)357. It was created for the Leica Store Altstadt Wetzlar357. The set included a red anodized camera, with the top and base plates milled from aluminum, as well as a red anodised APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH357.