Buying anything from the current range of Leica is going to be an expensive business. There is an alternative if someone really wants to know what Leica optics are all about and they could do worse than look at the R range. That was Leica's SLR manual focus camera which was discontinued in 2009, when prices reached their lowest point. Since then Leica has introduced solutions to use the lenses on the full frame M and SL bodies and the lenses have increased in value. Some eyewateringly so. Nevertheless, there are still a few comparative bargains to be had. A 135 f/2.8 can be bought for under £200, a 50 f/2 or 60 f/2.8 macro for around £300.
Since they all have aperture rings and there are no electronic connections to worry about, they will work on any modern camera through the means of an adapter. I use those from K & F Concept, which are inexpensive and well made.
http://www.kentfaith.com/LensAdapterMirrorless cameras with focussing aids such as focus peaking are best, but DSLRs with live view will work by magnifying the image to check focus. Neither is this method restricted to Leica R lenses. There is a thriving adapted lens segment with all manner of lenses being attached to cameras for which they were never intended. For just one example, take a look at the MFlenses website and forum.
http://www.mflenses.com/Some people reckon the bokeh is better on some of these old lenses, with one such being the Tokina 90 f/2.5 macro. In fact, it has acquired the nickname "Bokina". Russian lenses such as the Helios 44 50 f/2, which usually came with the Zenit SLR are also favoured for their out of focus effects. Once these lenses were cheap as chips and not well regarded, but command surprisingly respectable prices these days.
Anyone buying a Leica R lens, or any other manual focus lens to try is unlikely to lose much if they decide to sell it on provided they purchase sensibly. eBay "Buy it now" prices tend to be OTT and best avoided unless someone really wants a particular lens. Do it right, you could even make a profit.
