Leica M5 Film Camera
The Leica M5 is a film camera from Leica — known for its Leica M Mount and Optical Rangefinder. Used copies start from $1,499 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Leica M5 Film Camera
Used Leica M5 Listings on GearFocus
Camera Overview — Leica M5
Key Features — Leica M5
Leica M Mount: Compatible with the full range of Leica M lenses, one of the most extensive and celebrated manual lens ecosystems in photography.
Optical Rangefinder: Classic coupled rangefinder focusing system allows precise manual focus through the viewfinder for deliberate, accurate shooting.
Built-In Light Meter: Integrated TTL metering system gives exposure readings directly in-camera, a notable feature for its era of Leica M cameras.
ISO 6–3200 Range: Accommodates a wide variety of film stocks, from fine-grain slow emulsions to fast films suited for lower-light conditions.
All-Metal Construction: Solid metal body weighing 699g is built to withstand long-term use and gives the camera a confidence-inspiring feel in hand.
Cold Shoe Accessory Mount: The M5 features a shoe mount for attaching external flash units, but it is a non-TTL accessory shoe without electronic contacts.
Camera Specifications — Leica M5
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Documentary, Travel |
| Type | Film |
| ISO Range | 6 – 3200 |
| AF System | Rangefinder (Manual) |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Viewfinder | Optical Rangefinder |
| Battery | 1.35V Mercury-Oxide Battery |
| Weather Sealing | None |
| Dimensions | 148 x 80 x 33 mm |
| Weight | 699g |
| Lens Mount | Leica M |
| Hot Shoe | Cold Shoe (No Contacts) |
Description — Leica M5
The Leica M5 is a film rangefinder camera built around the Leica M lens mount, pairing a robust metal body with a broad shooting range made possible by its ISO 6 to 3200 sensitivity support. The camera's optical rangefinder viewfinder delivers a manual focusing experience that remains a defining characteristic of the M series approach to photography. Physically, the M5 measures 148 x 80 x 33 mm and weighs 699g, giving it a substantial, well-balanced presence.
A hot shoe is included for external flash use when the situation demands it. The metering system is powered by a 1.35V Mercury-Oxide battery, an important consideration for prospective buyers given the battery's discontinued status. The camera has no image stabilization, no autofocus, and no wireless connectivity of any kind — it is a fully manual, analog tool.
Weather sealing is rated as None, so appropriate care in variable conditions is advised. For photographers committed to the deliberate craft of manual film shooting with Leica M mount glass, the M5 offers a compelling and capable platform.
Pros — Leica M5
- ✓Leica M lens mount opens compatibility with a wide and well-regarded range of lenses
- ✓Broad ISO range of 6 to 3200 supports a diverse selection of film stocks
- ✓Optical rangefinder viewfinder enables precise manual focusing
Cons — Leica M5
- ✗Requires a 1.35V Mercury-Oxide battery, a discontinued cell type that can be difficult to source today
- ✗No weather sealing, so the camera should be used carefully in challenging conditions
- ✗Manual rangefinder focus only — no autofocus system for faster or candid shooting
Videos — Leica M5
Leica M5 Review - The odd one out from the 1970s — Analog Insights
Frequently Asked Questions — Leica M5
What lenses can I use with the Leica M5?+
The Leica M5 uses the Leica M lens mount, as listed in its specifications. This gives you access to any lens designed for that mount. Always verify individual lens compatibility before purchasing.
What battery does the Leica M5 require?+
The M5 requires a 1.35V Mercury-Oxide battery according to the specifications. Mercury-Oxide batteries are no longer in production, so owners typically need to find a suitable modern equivalent or adapter to power the metering system.
What ISO range does the Leica M5 support?+
The M5 supports an ISO range from 6 to 3200 per the specifications, giving you flexibility to use slow, fine-grain film stocks as well as faster films for shooting in lower light.
Is the Leica M5 weather sealed?+
No. The specifications explicitly list weather sealing as 'None,' so the camera should be protected from moisture and dust during use.
How does focusing work on the Leica M5?+
The M5 uses a Rangefinder (Manual) autofocus system, meaning all focusing is done manually by the photographer through the optical rangefinder viewfinder. There is no autofocus capability.
Does the Leica M5 have a hot shoe for flash?+
Yes, the specifications confirm a hot shoe is present, allowing you to attach a compatible external flash unit when needed.