The Leica M6 is one of the most iconic 35mm film cameras ever made. Produced from 1984 to 2002 and revived again in 2022, it earned its place in photographic history not only through its reliability and design, but also through its remarkably diverse range of models, variations and special editions.
The M6 spans nearly two decades of Leica’s evolution during a period marked by economic challenges, engineering breakthroughs and an eventual brand revival. Its limited editions reflect this story, offering a timeline of partnership releases, commemorations, and regional exclusives that have become collector favourites.
This article traces the complete history of the Leica M6 models and special editions, beginning with the first M6 Classic and ending with the final M6 TTL runs of 2003.
Introduction to the Leica M6
Launched in 1984, the Leica M6 introduced modern TTL (Through-the-Lens) metering into a classic mechanical Leica M body. While earlier Leica Ms required external meters or Sunny 16, the M6 provided a built-in meter without sacrificing its mechanical shutter. The camera remained compact, quiet and dependable — exactly what Leica photographers wanted.
Two major versions exist:
- Leica M6 Classic (1984–1998)
- Leica M6 TTL (1998–2002)
Both versions shared the same core idea: a fully mechanical rangefinder with a simple, accurate metering system. What followed over the next 18 years was a long list of refinements, relocations, cosmetic changes, special editions and extremely limited collector runs.
1984: The Launch of the Leica M6 Classic (Wetzlar Production)
The first M6 bodies were produced in Leica’s historic Wetzlar factory. Key early identifiers include:
- ERNST LEITZ WETZLAR GMBH engraving
- Leitz red dot
- Metal rewind knob
- Film plane indicator
- Metal eyepiece rim
- Hollow Leica M6 engraving
- No rubber strap lug protectors
These early Wetzlar models are among the most collectible M6 bodies today. Production began with serial number 1657251, and the camera was initially available only in black chrome.
1986: Black and Chrome Production Expands
In 1986 Leica introduced chrome versions and added plastic strap lug protectors to prevent body scratching. The M6 continued unchanged mechanically, with the familiar 0.72 viewfinder as standard.
1987: The “Big Logo” M6
One of the rarest variations is the 1987 “Big Logo” model, featuring only a large M6 engraving on the front without the word Leica above it. Mechanically it is identical to the standard M6 Classic but visually distinct and highly prized by collectors.
1987: Leica M6 G (Gold Logo)
A small Swiss dealer edition of 100 cameras with gold Leitz logos. These early custom runs mark the beginning of the M6 becoming a favourite platform for regional special editions.
1988: Move to Solms and New Leica Branding
In 1988 Leica split its operations, and M6 production moved from Wetzlar to Solms. These cameras introduced:
- Leica GmbH Germany engravings
- Brass top plates with new Leica red dot
- Slight cosmetic revisions
The shift also marked the transition from Leitz branding to the modern Leica name.
1988: Leica M6 Classic LHSA 20th Anniversary
Produced in only 43 units for the Leica Historical Society of America, these extremely rare cameras feature “1968 LHSA 1988” engravings.
1989: Leica M6 Classic Platin
A platinum-finished M6 produced in 1,250 sets to celebrate both 150 years of photography and 75 years of Leica. Each set included a matching 50mm Summilux-M and engraved top plates.
1990: Leica M6 Siber Hegner Japan
A small run of 125 chrome bodies produced for the Japanese distributor, featuring an SHJ emblem on the top plate.
1990–1993: The Leica M6 Panda
One of the most famous aesthetic variations, the Panda combines a chrome body with black controls. While not officially a limited edition, production was limited and they remain highly collectible.
1992: Columbus 500th Anniversary Edition
A run of 200 silver M6 Classics commemorating the 500th anniversary of Columbus’s voyage, paired with chrome 50mm Summicron lenses.
1992: The Sultan of Brunei Gold Edition
A lavish set of 350 gold-plated Leica M6 Classics with matching gold 50mm Summilux lenses. These are among the most extravagant Leica M6 editions ever produced.
1992–1998: Leica M6 Classic Titan
A titanium M6 Classic, made from 1992 to 1998, featuring a brass top plate and distinctive finish. This wasn’t a limited edition but remains a desirable premium variant.
1993: LHSA 25th Anniversary Set
A set of 151 chrome cameras with three matching chrome lenses (35, 50 and 90 Summicron). Complete sets with the wooden presentation box command very high collector prices.
1993: Royal Foto Anniversary Edition
A 25th anniversary edition for the Austrian dealer Royal Foto, produced in 101 units in both black and chrome with red leather coverings.
1994: Leica M6 Cutaway (Schnittmodell)
Not a functional camera but a cut-through display model showing the internal mechanics. These were produced in very small numbers and are rare collector pieces.
1994: Photo Ganz Zürich Titanium Edition
A run of 20 titanium M6 cameras for the 150th anniversary of Foto Ganz in Zürich, with matching titanium Summilux-M 35mm lenses.
1994: Traveller Set
A set of 500 chrome M6s with matching 50mm Summilux lenses packaged with leather cases and accessories.
1994: Royal Photographic Society Edition
A special run of 100 Panda-style M6 Classics celebrating the society’s 100-year anniversary.
1994: The Leica M6J
One of the most famous special editions, created to celebrate:
- 80 years of Leica
- 40 years of the Leica M system
- 10 years of the Leica M6
The M6J combined the body shape of the Leica M3 with the frameline set of the M4 and a 0.85 magnification finder. Produced in 1,640 units, each paired with a collapsible 50mm Elmar-M.
1995–1996: Multiple Regional and Anniversary Editions
These years saw Leica produce numerous exclusive editions:
- Leica Historica 1975–1995 (150 blue leather sets)
- Polyphoto Demo Unit (20–90 engraved bodies)
- Gold Dragon Edition (300 sets with karung snakeskin)
- Royal Danish Wedding edition (200 sets)
- Gold and platinum editions for King Bhumibol of Thailand
- Schmidt Group 100-year anniversary (150 platinum sets)
- Anton Bruckner Edition (200 blue iguana skin sets)
These editions show Leica’s heavy use of regional partnerships and commemorative themes during the 1990s.
1998: The Final Leica M6 Classic and the 0.85 Viewfinder Version
In the last year of Classic production, Leica introduced a 0.85 viewfinder option alongside the standard 0.72. This was ideal for 50mm and 90mm shooters.
1998–2002: The Leica M6 TTL
The M6 TTL brought several important updates:
- Larger shutter speed dial
- Revised TTL flash system
- Slightly taller top plate
- Optional 0.58, 0.72, and 0.85 viewfinders
This version also became the platform for many of the most sought-after limited editions.
1998–2003: Major Leica M6 TTL Limited Editions
Some of the standout variations include:
- Jaguar XK50 Limited Edition (50 sets, British Racing Green leather)
- Millennium Black Paint (2,000 sets with matching black paint lenses)
- Safari Green (300 sets for the Hong Kong market)
- NSH Japanese distributor edition (400 black paint bodies)
- Kanto Camera edition (100 chrome bodies with Summicron 50)
- Test the Best edition (40 chrome demo units)
- LHSA Black Paint editions (650 in 0.72 and 500 in 0.85)
- Øresundsbroen edition (150 black paint cameras commemorating the Øresund Bridge opening)
- Dragon 2000 China Edition (500 units)
- Hansa Edition (100 chrome bodies)
- Sheikh Saud Bin Mohammed Al-Thani Edition (16 orange leather sets)
- Titanium Limited Edition (1,000 bodies with matching titanium ASPH lenses)
2003: The Last 999 Leica M6 Cameras
To close production, Leica announced a final commemorative series:
- Die letzten 999 Leica M6
- Produced in 0.58 and 0.85 viewfinder versions
- Offered in both black and chrome
These represent the final official M6 bodies before digital cameras took priority.
2022: The Leica M6 Returns
Nearly 20 years after production ended, Leica reintroduced the M6 in 2022 with:
- Updated, flare-resistant rangefinder
- Modern materials and assembly
- Leitz logo red dot
- Improved electronics for the meter
- Battery indicator LED
The reissue has been extremely popular, reaffirming the enduring legacy of the M6.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Collectibility
The Leica M6 is unique in Leica’s history. No other Leica M model has inspired such a broad range of special editions, regional variations, commemorative releases and long-term production refinements.
Collectors value the M6 because it represents both the end of Leica’s purely mechanical tradition and the beginning of its modern revival. Photographers value it because it simply works, year after year, with a tactile experience unmatched by digital cameras.
From early Wetzlar engravings to exotic gold-plated royal editions, the Leica M6 remains one of the most fascinating and beloved cameras ever made.
