Hi everyone,
First off, let's acknowledge that "real" poverty is a very different beast, but in the world of gear acquisition syndrome, I am struggling. I’m a lover of beautiful things with a bank account that firmly disagrees with my lifestyle choices.
I’m currently rocking a Leica M6(and a III F) I scored used 20 years ago for a price that would make today’s collectors weep. I adore it, but let’s be real: with current film prices, I’m down to shooting maybe two rolls a year. It’s heartbreaking to have such a masterpiece sitting on a shelf. Before you suggest it: selling the M6 is not an option. (It’s a cherished memory)
I have a 50mm Summicron and a 90mm Elmarit that are begging to be used more. I bought a Nikon Zf four months ago, and while my M-mount lenses look and perform exceptionally well on it, the "monkey on my back" is screaming for a digital M specifically an M10 or even a 240.
Here’s the reality check: these cameras cost anywhere from 1.3 to 2 months of my salary. That kind of price tag makes even a gear addict like me pause.
I should mention I’m lucky enough to own my home no rent or mortgage hanging over my head but spending over two months of hard work on a "whim" feels like a diagnosable condition.
So, for those of you also suffering from this specific sickness: What is your "guilt threshold"? Does it actually make sense to drop two months' worth of pay on a used digital body just to finally let your M-glass breathe again? Or have I finally lost my mind?
Curious to hear how you justify the madness.