Nifty Fifty wrote: carstenw wrote:
Leica not only means luxury, it also means 100% made in Europe by skilled labour
Well, let's just say that, as far as cameras are concerned, Leica uses purchased components in bodies manufactured in Germany. I consider it highly unlikely that the internal components are manufactured in the EU. With the Q, lenses aren't even repaired anymore; they're only replaced as complete units. To me, this indicates that the entire optical system is manufactured externally. And with the AF lenses for the SL, it's probably also unrealistic to claim they're 100% made in the EU.
carstenw wrote:to the highest standard.
What good are high standards if fixing software problems sometimes takes years? And when you read reports from long-time M users who have repeatedly had to return brand-new M lenses because they were defective, you really have to wonder how this can happen with such high standards.
You are certainly right that mistakes to happen with Leica equipment, both software and hardware. I recall that when I got my brand-new 50mm Summilux-M f/1,4 ASPH., it took Leica three visits back to the factory to fix all the misalignment and issues with it, but then it was one of, if not my very favourite lens of all time. There are certainly valid discussions about what quality means, but I don't think anyone would call Leica products junk. The M line was always the Crown Jewels, and that was really what I was thinking of when I wrote my post, not the various other lines, most of which I have not even seen, except online.
On the other hand, Leica is very serious about doing things right, and if you have the patience, it will eventually happen. I have heard numerous stories about Leica replacing parts for free, after the warranty has run out. They don't hide from what they consider their mistakes. One might disagree about what this includes, but this is clearly a company serious about their customers and reputation.
Overall a mixed bag, but still a top company in the industry. I am always interested in Leica products, although due to the obscene pricing, I rarely buy anything.
