MP 2003

With its electronic shutter control and aperture priority, the M7 had defied the classic image of the Leica M – a camera which traditionally had always been reduced to the bare essentials, and operated without the need for a power supply. To balance things out, the Leica MP was introduced in 2003. The analogue, entirely mechanical camera was devoid of any automatic features and did not rely on batteries, with the exception of the exposure meter. This made the MP closer to the original M concept than its sister model, the M7, which continued to be produced simultaneously.

The MP is certainly built to last, with Leica offering a free five-year warranty to all registered owners. In addition, the Leica repair services in Wetzlar ensure the availability of spare parts for up to thirty years.

An initial version of the Leica MP was released back in 1956. The 2003 model shares several of its attributes, including the omitted red Leica dot, and the engraved Leica lettering on the top plate. Also, the original Leicavit rapid winder is once again available for the current MP.

The highly resilient and almost battery-free camera has now been holding its place on the market for over ten years.