This Leica R7 is a microprocessor-controlled 35mm single lens reflex camera with electronic multi-blade focal plane shutter and multi-mode automatic functions. LED displays in viewfinder: shutter speeds, flash ready, exposure meter, etc….. Lens mount has bayonet for Leica R lenses from 15mm to 800mm.
Included with camera body: lens cover, deluxe carrying strap, R7 manual and batteries.
Genuine Leica equipment included:
Leica Elmarit-R F2.8/28mm lens
Leica Elmarit-R. F2.8/90mm lens
Leica Summicron-R F2/50mm lens
Leica lens Extender-R 2X
Leica Motor Winder R
Leica Hand Grip R7 (use with winder)
Metz Mecablitz System Flash SCA 300-
Model 32CT4
“ “ “ Flash Mount SCA 351
Three lens filters in cases.
Leica R7 original user’s manual dated 1992 included. All listed equipment is manufactured in Germany.
The Leica R7 is a 35mm film SLR camera, produced by Leica between 1992 and 1997. It represents the culmination of Leica's collaboration with Minolta, which began with the Leica R3.
Design and Build
- Body: The R7 has a robust and durable build, typical of Leica's high standards. The chassis is made of metal, providing a solid and heavy feel, while the exterior is covered in plastic for a sleek finish¹.
- Dimensions: The camera is slightly taller than its predecessors due to additional circuitry in the base, which required a new, taller grip for the winder or motor drive⁶.
- Weight: It is relatively heavy, contributing to its sturdy and professional feel.
Viewfinder and Focusing
- Viewfinder: The R7 features a large, bright viewfinder that covers 92% of the frame⁵. It includes interchangeable focusing screens, allowing photographers to customize their shooting experience.
- Focusing: Manual focusing is facilitated by the clear and bright viewfinder, which is essential for precise composition.
Exposure and Metering
- Metering Modes: The camera offers two metering modes: selective (spot) metering and integral (full-frame) metering⁵.
- Exposure Modes: It includes manual, shutter-priority, aperture-priority, and program modes⁵. This versatility makes it suitable for various shooting conditions and photographer preferences.
- TTL Flash Metering: The R7 was the first in the R-series to offer through-the-lens (TTL) flash metering in automatic program mode¹. This feature requires a System Camera Adapter (SCA 351) for proper TTL control.
Shutter and Film Handling
- Shutter: The metallic, vertically traveling focal plane shutter has speeds ranging from 1/2000 s to 4 s (manual) or 16 s (automatic), and a bulb mode¹. The maximum flash synchronization speed is 1/100 s².
- Film Handling: The camera supports automatic DX film sensitivity setting with manual override, accommodating ISO ranges from 6 to 12,800¹.
Additional Features
- Exposure Compensation: The R7 includes an exposure compensation dial with a range of +3 to -3 stops².
- Self-Timer: An electronic self-timer is available for delayed shots.
- Depth-of-Field Preview: This feature allows photographers to preview the depth of field before taking a shot.
- Dioptre Adjustment: The viewfinder includes a dioptre adjustment for users with vision correction needs.
- Hot Shoe: A hot shoe is provided for external flash units.
- Viewfinder Blind: This feature prevents stray light from entering the viewfinder during long exposures.
Handling and Ergonomics
- Controls: The R7's controls are designed to prevent accidental changes. The exposure compensation, ISO adjustment, and shooting mode selectors are protected by locks¹.
- Grip: The camera's grip is ergonomically designed to accommodate the additional height from the circuitry, ensuring comfortable handling⁶.
Aesthetics
- Appearance: The R7 maintains a classic Leica aesthetic with a modern twist, combining functionality with timeless design.
The Leica R7 is a professional-grade camera that combines advanced features with Leica's renowned build quality. It’s a versatile tool for photographers who appreciate manual control and high precision in their work.