Leica M-A (Typ 127)

Incredible build quality. Bright, uncluttered viewfinder. Completely mechanical operation. Requires no batteries. Nearly silent shutter. PC sync socket. Includes a roll of Tri-X. Available in chrome or black.

Expensive. Shutter tops out at 1/1,000-second. Sync speed limited to 1/50-second. Omits in-camera meter.

Conclusions It's safe to say that only Leica would be bold enough to release a purely mechanical, meterless 35mm body in today's market, yet alone give it a price tag as high as the M-A (Typ 127). It's a niche product, but one that's so well engineered...