Originally posted by Kunzite You are right, they cannot make a simple DSLR on the same level of simplicity as an MX/K1000. That is impossible for anyone, because digital adds complexity.
OTOH, they are also unwilling to cripple a DSLR in an extreme "retro" style, because those few requesting them to do that would not pay for it (Leica prices).
Right - simple or not - they still need all the electronics to read the sensor, process the data and save it to the sd card - if you go too cheap on these - the camera becomes too slow and annoying to use and everyone will hate it. Sort of like how Sigma cameras are right now (and they are still far from cheap!). Not to mention everyone's beloved mechanical dials and buttons - these just add costs and will have to be stripped to point-and-shoot camera level.
But I don't think it is fair to compare the proposed "cheap" ff camera from ricoh to what leica does. Leica cameras are not mean to be cheap but meant to be exclusive. Those without LCD, monochrome, etc might cost more to produce or might cost less at the end (they are not exactly mass-produced, even the standard editions), but they will definately be priced higher just to emphasize on that exclusivness.
If Ricoh wants to play in that league they need to do a lot more than remove AF so you can enjoy the ultimate experience of focusing your screw drive lenses manually.
It needs to be not cheap but something luxury that would strike a note with the few remaining nostalgic film-era photographers to spend their retirement savings on it... you know, not like painted over "gunmetal". Think something like digital LX kit with the 3 limiteds fitted into SMC-A style manual focus body (so they can still save on the coupler
).
Beyond the pentax brand I think Ricoh GR FF is someting that they will be crazy not to do.