Rangefinder35mm
beginnerintermediate
Discontinued
Leica CL (1973)
1973-1976
Affordable M-mount entry
Format
35mm
Shutter
1/1000
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Battery req.
Weight
360g
Best For
- Affordable M-mount entry
- Compact M system
- Travel photography
- 40mm lens users
Features
- Smallest M-mount camera
- TTL CdS metering
- 40mm and 90mm frame lines
- Made by Minolta for Leica
- Vertical-travel metal shutter
Limitations
- Only 40/90mm frame lines
- Mercury battery discontinued
- Rangefinder baseline short
- Build quality below M standards
Common Issues to Check
- Meter failure common
- Rangefinder alignment issues
- Shutter speed dial wear
- Light seals deterioration
- Battery replacement needed
Buying Guide
The Leica CL was made by Minolta and is the smallest M-mount camera. Unusual 40/90mm frame lines suit its own lenses. Mercury battery meter often fails - use Wein cell or external meter. Check rangefinder carefully - the short baseline makes accuracy critical. Affordable M-mount entry but compromises exist.
Pricing
Typical Range£400 - £700
Excellent Condition~£900
Most affordable M-mount body
Prices as of 2026-01. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error