The Leica M camera is 70 years old: the M mount was introduced in 1954 with the Leica M3 (Wikipedia). Going even further back in time, in 1923, Barnack convinced Ernst Leitz II to make a preproduction run of 31 cameras to test. 100 years ago, in 1924, Ernst Leitz decided to produce the camera. The official introduction was at the 1925 Leipzig Spring Fair as the Leica I (for Leitz camera). This makes 2024 an even more important year for Leica (Wikipedia).
Related previous posts:
Phototrend always has one of the best interviews in the business – always to the point, without any influencers’ BS. They recently published their interview from the 2024 Paris Photo Show with Laurent Pidancet (head of the Leica Akademie in France). Here is a quick recap:
In addition to the new “Leica M Edition 70” special anniversary edition, Leica also announced the previously rumored Leicavit M accessory (not a limited edition) that will be available in three different versions: black-painted, glossy black-painted, and silver-chromed. Shipping will start in the first half of 2025. The price will be €1,050, including VAT.
From the press release:
Leica will release a new “Leica M Edition 70” limited edition film camera (Leica M-A + Leicavit + 50 APO) for their 70 year anniversary:
For pricing and availability, check our sponsors:
| Americas | Europe | Asia |
| Adorama | B&H Leica Miami Tamarkin Camera Classic Connection |
Leica Lisse Red Dot Cameras Calumet | Koch | WEX |
Rangefinder Map Camera |
Additional information:
Clever Supply listed a new Sidekick Pro camera bag for funding on Kickstarter (see their previous project):
New: Sidekick Pro camera back by Clever Supply: $53,872 raised by 634 backers with 28 days to go
The new bag is designed for carrying cameras like the Leica Q or Leica M with an extra lens:
The previously rumored Insta360 Ace Pro 2 camera with 8k video, AI chip, and Leica lens is now officially announced:
After the recent Leica Q3 43 camera announcements, here is an updated list/recap of expected/rumored Leica cameras and lenses (see all previous reports here):
→ Updated Panasonic Lumix S lens roadmap (L-mount).
→ 7Artisans to announce a new 10mm f/2.8 II full-frame fisheye lens for L-mount.
→ Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70–200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens unboxing by NPC Photo. The new lens is currently in stock at B&H Photo.
→ The previously reported Meike AF 55mm f/1.8 Pro series autofocus full-frame lens for L-mount is now officially announced and available for order. Additional information is available here.
→ Leica 50mm f/0.95 Noctilux lens review.
→ Featured pre-owned product at Leica Store Maimi: Leica Q2 007 Edition.
The Latest Nikon Rumors The Latest Pentax Rumors