A new Leica M Monochrom Typ 246 “Your Mark” limited edition camera was just announced in the US. I do not have the exact price yet, but the set is limited to 80 pieces and will be sold only in USA Leica stores. For pricing and availability, check one of our sponsors: Leica Palm Beach, Leica Soho and Leica Miami.
Additional information:
During the Q2 presentation in Italy yesterday, a Leica Italy representative answered a question on Facebook about the Leica SL2 release date and confirmed that the new camera will be announced in June. The comment was later deleted.
The Leics SL is currently $500 off in the US and it comes with a free LHSA membership (you can also get an additional $600 instant trade-in credit).
A new Leica M Monochrom Typ 246 Kyoto limited edition camera was announced in Japan. Only 10 sets will be produced for the 5th anniversary of Leica Kyoto Store. The price is ¥1,080,000 excluding tax (around $9,700).
Additional pictures:
There are several new accessories that were announced together with the Leica Q2 camera today – see the details at Adorama, B&H Photo and Park Camera (UK).
Additional pictures of the new Leica Q2 accessories:
Leica Q | Leica Q2 | |
Resolution | 24 megapixels | 47 megapixels |
Weather Sealed | No | Yes |
Dimensions | 130x80x93mm | 130x80x91.9mm |
Weight (with battery) | 640 grams | 718 grams |
FN Buttons | 1 | 2 |
Crop Modes | 35mm, 50mm | 35mm, 50mm, 75mm |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/16,000th | 1/40,000th |
ISO | 100-50,000 | 50-50,000 |
Video | 1920 x 1080 p with 60 or 30 fps. HD: 1280 x 720 p with 30 fps. | 4K: 30 or 24 fps / Cine4K: 24 fps / Full HD 24, 30, 60 or 120 fps |
Bluetooth LE | No | Yes |
Battery | BP-DC12 | BP-SCL 4 |
OLED EVF | No | Yes, with improved eye relief |
Locking Diopter | No | Yes |
SD UHS II | Same performance as UHS I | Over 50% faster buffer clear with UHS II |
B&H Photo has a detailed Leica Q vs. Leica Q2 specifications comparison.
Additional Leica Q2 coverage from around the Web:
I had an opportunity to use the Q2 ahead of today’s announcement and found the improvements to be largely positive. The camera hasn’t lost any of its charm or appeal, but feels faster in use and is easier to handle thanks to the refined controls. The new viewfinder is noticeably better to look at, and the high-resolution files provide a lot of flexibility for cropping and editing. Despite the new video recording capabilities, the Q2 remains a stills camera first and foremost — the lack of articulating display, mic input, or fine-grained video controls will put off most videographers. (The Verge)
Copyright Sean Reid, All Rights To Use Or Reproduction Reserved
Sean Reid published a very detailed review (19 pages) of the Leica Q2 based on extensive field testing, in many locations, as well as controlled studio tests comparing the new model to the Leica Q. Tomorrow Sean will publish another 14-page lens review of the Leica 28/1.7 Summilux ASPH fixed lens on the Leica Q and Q2 including full studio tests.
Dpreview has a detailed report on the Leica Q2 including sample photos:
“So when rumors started circulating of a Q2, I became nervous. ‘What if Leica screws this up?’ I thought. After all, it’s not uncommon for brands to muck up a refresh of hugely popular cameras by either launching a half-baked feature update (thank you Ricoh GR II), or changing too much of the original camera’s DNA.Fortunately, Leica knew better. After shooting with the Q2 I am pleased to confirm that it is no half-baked update, nor a watered down version of its predecessor. Simply put, Leica got it right – the Q2 is a perfect example of how to do a refresh. They fixed the most complained-about pain points, added some new tech and new features and didn’t change anything they didn’t have to.”
Leica Q2 report from DC.Watch.
The Leica Q2 camera is now officially announced. The US price is $4,995 (only in black finish). Sample photos are available here. The main specifications are (the detailed specifications can be downloaded here):
For pricing and availability, check one of our sponsors (several stores have the Q2 in stock already):
Additional pictures and full press release:
