Leica CL
The Leica CL, produced from 1973 to 1976, was a compact 35mm rangefinder camera developed in collaboration with Minolta to offer Leica quality at a more accessible price point. Featuring a built-in CdS light meter with LED indicators in the viewfinder, the CL provided aperture-priority automatic exposure alongside manual control. This camera accepted standard Leica M-mount lenses while maintaining the precise rangefinder focusing system that made Leica famous. The CL's smaller, lighter body compared to the M-series cameras made it popular among travel photographers and photojournalists who needed portability without sacrificing optical excellence. Despite some initial resistance from Leica purists, the CL proved that compact design could coexist with the legendary Leica precision and build quality.
Files
Service manual for the Leica CL
Manual for the Leica focal plane shutter