THERE is something very satisfying about using a rangefinder
camera. It is all about having total manual control over
focusing the image your way, rather than relying on the camera
to do the focusing for you. True, digital single-lens reflex
(D-SLR) cameras can be switched to give a modicum of manual
control, while letting the user see a pretty good visualisation
of the image that is about to be recorded. But your
correspondent always feels the manual experience with a D-SLR is
artificial—as if the device is providing a mere semblance of
control filtered through simulation circuitry.  His love affair
with rangefinder cameras started with a second-hand Leica IIIf
bought 35 years ago (see “Me no Leica any more”, October 17th
2008). At the time, the ultimate of all compact rangefinders,
the Leica IIIg, was way beyond his means. But ever since, he has
cherished the thought of owning the latest Leica one day. That
nowadays would be the all-digital M9-P. Though still nostalgic
about film, your correspondent has lon