The Leica M10 is, to many, the epitome of what a Leica should be in the 21st century. And before you make the mistake of thinking thatโs how it always is with a new Leica, I can assure you, it isnโt. The M9 and various evolutions of it (typ. 240, et cetera) were admired, but unlike the M10, never quite the same way adored.
Yes, the M10 bares the obvious family lineage, but even at first glance you notice itโs different; itโs leaner, easier to hold, has a bigger/brighter viewfinder, and itโs dropped buttons you donโt need in favor of a dial you want. And under the skin itโs a different story too, with better dynamic range, smaller battery, WLAN, better menu, and a better sensor. It is a thing of beauty, and if you appreciate craftsmanship, this little video on the making of the M10 is right up your alley.
[REWIND: LEICA TL2 REVIEW | LESS A RANDOM TOOL & MORE A PERSONAL STATEMENT]
There are no words to the video, but that doesnโt make it any less emotive. When we think of Leica, as we do any other premium brand and product, we often think โhandmadeโ, but what does that actually mean? Is it like old handmade cars where โhandmadeโ was just a a nice way of saying โitโll breakโ? Not quite.
The peek behind the German net-curtains provides a glimpse at a process that seems to reflect the very mixed nature of the M10 itself; something both mechanically and clinically meticulous, but with a human touch.
When brands allow us a look at the factories, and the processes and people behind the products, they really make them more compelling, and we get a level of appreciation and affiliation you couldnโt do otherwise.
If you loved the M10 before this, youโll want one more after, and if you didnโt, you just may do now. Itโs one of the most beautiful cameras Iโve ever seen, and you can see my initial review here, and keep an eye out for another piece about what itโs like to live with daily.
