Update: the US price of the Leica C is $699 (the equivalent Panasonic Lumix LF1 costs $499).Keep in mind that with the Leica C you are getting also Lightroom 5 (priced at $122).
Pictures and specifications of the upcoming Leica C type 112 camera are already circulating online:
- Design by Audi Design
- Based on the Panasonic Lumix LF1
- 12.1MP 1/1.7″ sensor
- 7.1x zoom, Leica DC Vario-Summicron f2.0-5.9/6-42.8mm ASPH. lens (28 – 200mm equivalent)
- EVF
- WiFi / NFC connectivity
- Comes with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom
- New accessories for the Leica C will be available
- Size: 103 × 63 × 28mm
- Weight: 195g weight
- Price TBD
- Release date: October
Additional images:
Here is the full press release:
Solms, Germany, 8 September 2013: Leica Camera AG has unveiled the first model of a new line of Leica digital compact cameras, the Leica C. Small enough to fit in a pocket, the Leica C offers a sophisticated feature package in an impressively stylish design, making it the ideal camera for discerning photographers and aficionados of exquisite design.
An eye-catcher in every respect, the Leica C’s impressive technical features are housed in a truly unique body. The camera’s slim and stylish form results from the work of Audi Design, who was also commissioned to develop its range of exclusive accessories. A chic colour concept that underlines its simple elegance – the Leica C is available in two finishes: ‘light gold’, a refined combination of gold, ivory and black, and ‘dark red’, a classic black with burgundy tones. Its collection of innovative accessories in premium materials further highlights the unique look of Leica’s new compact camera line.
Featuring a high-performance Leica DC Vario-Summicron zoom lens and an exceptionally large sensor for its class with a resolution of 12.1 megapixels, the Leica C is suitable for almost any photographic occasion and delivers outstanding imaging performance, even in unfavourable lighting conditions. The Leica C is the first Leica compact camera to feature an integrated Wi-Fi and NFC (Near Field Communication) module for the wireless transmission of image data to smartphones and tablet PCs. It also offers a wide range of camera functions, in-camera processing options and an intuitive handling concept for spontaneous photography.
Its Leica DC Vario-Summicron 6–42.8 mm f/2–5.9 ASPH. 7× zoom lens, with a range equivalent to 28 to 200 mm in 35 mm format, is extremely versatile and ideal for almost all photographic situations. The programmable ring around the lens provides even greater creative freedom. From portraits to expansive shots, such as landscapes, the combination of high-precision optics with a large sensor guarantees exceptional imaging performance and pictures with brilliant, natural colours, clarity and contrast. Thanks to its extremely fast autofocus and a continuous-shooting mode with up to ten frames per second, it captures even the smallest details. The serious photographer will be pleased by the inclusion of an integrated LCD viewfinder.
The Leica C’s integrated Wi-Fi and NFC (Near Field Connection) module allows the wireless transfer of still pictures and video data to smartphones and tablet PCs via a WLAN connection. To enable this function, users simply have to download the Leica C Image Shuttle app and install it on their iOS or Android end device. By dialling into a WLAN connection, users can activate the data transfer. WLAN and the app also enable remote control of the Leica C from a smartphone or tablet PC, which is particularly useful for remote-release photography and when shooting with the self-timer.
The Leica C’s full-HD video function opens up even more creative opportunities. The photographer is always in complete control during exposure and recording thanks to the camera’s 3” monitor. The integrated viewfinder is particularly effective when shooting in bright light. Videos and still pictures can be creatively processed either in the camera or with Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®.
Concurrent with the launch of the Leica C, Leica Camera is also extending its service portfolio. This provides particular benefits for Leica C customers, as they can take advantage of a secure image-archiving package as an exclusive starting offer. More details will be announced in the near future.
Designed to perfectly complement the elegance of the Leica C, Leica offers a range of innovative and superbly finished, stylish accessories. For example, the Leica C-Clutch, an elegant clutch in light gold or dark red premium Alcantara with a sandblasted metal closer, offers two separate compartments with ample space for the camera and other personal belongings. The collection also includes the Leica C-Twist, C-Snap, C-Case, C-Pouch and C-Wrist Strap.
Owner Support
The perfect introduction to their newly purchased camera, Leica C owners are invited to attend a complimentary ‘Leica C Zinc Table Talk’. Offered on a weekly basis in the Leica Café Optik in Mayfair, London, the sessions will be led by a Leica Camera team member who will also be answering specific technical questions. Additional information will be available shortly on the Leica Store Mayfair website, www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk.
Included Software
Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, a professional digital workflow solution for Apple Mac® OS X and Microsoft Windows®, is included in the Leica C package. The software is available to Leica C owners as an online download after product registration.
Pricing and availability
The Leica C will be available in the UK from authorised Leica dealers including the Leica Store Mayfair, www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk, tel: 020 7629 1351, starting mid-September 2013. The suggested retail price for the Leica C in light gold or dark red is £550 including VAT.
Individual accessories are priced as follows (SRP including VAT):
C-Twist: £70
C-Snap: £60
C-Clutch: £110
C-Case: £80
C-Pouch: £60
C-Wrist Strap: £30
The range of optional accessories will be available in the coming months.
