The Leica M9 is ten years old: an interview with Stefan Daniel
The French website Mizuwari published an interview with Stefan Daniel on the 10th anniversary of the Leica M9 camera. Here are a few quotes (Google translation):
- The M9 has initiated the economic success of Leica.
- In September 2019, if you have a problem with your Leica M3 of 1954, so that over sixty years, there is no problem: you send us for service and we repair
- Sometimes I do not understand the screaming of all manufacturers as the market, by value, is four to five times higher than it has been in film.
- Smaller formats than 24 x 36 mm still have bright future with very strong advantages in terms of space.
- Even in 2019, I’m sure if we went a Leica M CCD sensor, it would sell some fans CCD look. But it’s not in the program and, in any way, the technology does not exist.
- It’s funny because even today I regularly get requests for a new M with CCD.
- I remember in 2001 when I built my first specifications for a digital M, it was to an optional electronic viewfinder to come clawing the hot shoe in addition to the optical rangefinder.
- (On limited edition Leica cameras): First, the limited series allow us to communicate the Leica brand outside of the photography market, particularly in the lifestyle and luxury, on land where other brands can not, in part, to go. It is a means of differentiation. Second, it’s just that there is a market of enthusiasts and collectors, who seek exceptional and economically, this is a good business for Leica.
Thanks Bruno (via mizuwari.fr)
