The Leica MP is still in production, and I love the black paint version for its timeless quality that bridges the past and the future.

The MP maintains the same metering system as the M6, providing an exposure indicator that continues to work even when the battery is out. The shutter dial of the MP is similar to that of the M3.

I wonder why the Leica MP is still being produced, much like the sun continues to shine. Black paint never grows old, and it is available in both black and silver. Many people prefer the black paint version as it develops a beautiful brass appearance over time.

I’m curious about how many pictures it takes to make a camera look wise. The answer lies in the years, not the days. Polishing it to reveal the copper underneath brings it back to life, giving it a unique character that cannot be achieved with silver.

Black paint was typically reserved for special models and the MP. It’s for users who don’t mind their camera developing a patina over time. Black chrome, on the other hand, is a real metal plating that maintains a pristine appearance. Cameras with black chrome include the M5, CL, M4, M4-2, M4-P, M6, M6TTL, M7, and digital Ms.

What are the main differences between the MP, M7, and M-A? The M7 is part of an official model sequence, following the M6. The sequence continues with the M8, M9, M10, etc. The M7 is the last model in the film camera line.

The Leica MP is a professional camera, originally designed in 1956 for small batches of reporters. It is available in black lacquer and silver and is still produced in limited numbers, making it part of a special custom series.

The MP is available in both black and silver, with many people preferring black because the paint will age over time and develop a beautiful brass appearance.

Unlike the M7, which emphasizes ease of use, the MP prioritizes reliability. It features a mechanical shutter that does not require a battery and is therefore more dependable. The MP also retains the metering system of the M6, which provides an exposure indicator and can still function when the camera is out of power.

The Leica MP is not designed for beginners and focuses more on the needs of experienced professionals. Every detail is intended to provide maximum benefit to the user.

In 2014, Leica released a new model called the M-A, which removed the metering module found in the MP. This model is a throwback to the classic M3.

Leica has released various custom versions of the MP over the years, including the 2003 Hermès version, the LHSA 35th Anniversary Model, the 2004 Japanese customized black lacquered version, the 2005 Hong Kong customized MP CLASSIC black lacquered version without a light meter, and the 2009 Ralph Gibson custom black chrome version.

Overall, Leica has never abandoned its film camera users and continues to produce cameras that are reliable, durable, and designed for professionals.

• In 2003, there was a Hermès version with a 35mm f/2 ASPH lens, limited to 500 units.
• Also in 2003, there was the LHSA 35th Anniversary Model with a 35mm f/2 ASPH lens, a faster film advancer, and limited to 1400 units.
• In 2004, there were 600 Japanese customized versions with a black lacquer finish, 35mm f/2 ASPH lens, fast film advancer, and a hot shoe engraved with numbers 1-600.
• In 2005, there were 500 Hong Kong customized versions of the MP CLASSIC with a black lacquer finish, no light meter, and no battery.
• Also in 2005, there were 500 units of the MP3 in black and 500 units in silver, featuring an M3 top cover and an old MP counter.
• In 2006, there were 200 units of the m3J.
• In 2007, there was a titanium-coated version of the MP that was customized in Japan.
• In 2009, there were 50 units of the Ralph Gibson custom black chrome version.
• Also in 2009, there was a customized edition for the People’s Republic of China with a Summilux 50mm f/1.4 ASPH lens and painted in gold.
• In 2011, there was a customized edition for the 20th anniversary of the M3P Leica Store in Vienna, featuring M3 styling and a Noctilux 50mm f/0.95 lens.