Leica to increase prices

I guess the initial UK price increase rumor will spread all over the world (effective Jan 1, 2009 in Europe):

M8 Upgrade Options

Shutter/Sapphire glass/Bright line frames 2000,- EUR
Shutter/Sapphire glass 1700,- EUR
Shutter/Bright line frames 1500,- EUR
Sapphire glass/Bright line frames 1450,- EUR
Bright line frames 1000,- EUR
Shutter 1200,- EUR
Sapphire glass 1150,- EUR

and Feb 15, 2009 for the US:

Shutter + Sapphire Glass + Rangefinder Mask $2,150.00
Shutter & Sapphire Glass $1,850.00
Shutter & Rangefinder Mask $1,600.00
Shutter Only $1,300.00
Sapphire Glass & Rangefinder Mask $1,550.00
Sapphire Glass $1,300.00
Rangefinder Mask $1,100.00

I am not sure how Leica will benefit from this price increase in the current recession. I think this will backfire and cause some serious damage to the company on the long run.

Source: l-camera-forum

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