The Leicavit for the MP, on the other hand, works with the Leica M6, M7, and MP. I acquired years ago and find it operates more smoothly than the Akagivit Leicavit for the M2 or even the original Leicavit. It feels solid and dependable.

Whether or not you need a Leicavit is debatable. It can help advance film slightly faster and provide more stability when loading film, giving extra time to compose the shot. However, for me it’s more decorative, simply providing an attractive extra height to the camera. It doesn’t notably improve my photography but combines with the Leica MP for an unbeatable retro look.

The Leicavit and Akagivit winders may be an unnecessary yet stylish accessory for your Leica film camera. They harken back to an era of slowly crafted mechanical designs that continue to inspire today. For some, that nostalgia and retro aesthetic is reason enough to add these rapid winders to their kit.