In an interview with BJP and AP, Leica’s chairman Dr. Andreas Kaufmann and CEO Alfred Schopf confirmed that they will be announcing a new compact mirrorless system camera (EVIL) at Photokina 2012, something I have been reporting here on LeicaRumors for a while. Some quotes:
“It’s more than an idea, you will see something at the next Photokina. The new system will use an “APS-C sized sensor at least” [Alfred Schopf]
“We will always do things differently and we always take our time.” [Andreas Kaufmann]
The new camera system is expected to be different from the current offerings from other manufacturers. It seems that Leica has decided on an EVF, but this will depend on the type of sensor they will choose. Expect the new camera to be compatible with Leica R lenses.
Here is a description of the new Leica EVIL camera I got back in May of 2010 – many things have probably changed since:
“We will see a full frame Leica EVIL on Photokina 2010. It will look like the Leicaflex 18X24 prototype. Of course without mirror or the film lever and so on. It will be a VERY small system camera, but there will be a big battery grip you can use, if you want. The AF is very special, moving chip, the phase AF is ON the main sensor. Only in black, 21 mp, 2fps, native ISO from 50 to 6400. Full magnesium. Price: body only 3200 EUR. Will start with 3(!) pancakes, 2 primes, 2 zooms.”
Few other interesting facts from the interview:
- Leica still has backlog (obviously).
- Leica declined several requests from companies to outsource its production to Asia (China).
- Andreas Kaufmann plans to launch a new company for publication of photobooks later this year, first book may be featuring Seal’s photography.
- Update: Leica already sold 1500 copies of the new M9-P camera.
