Leica Camera Japan announced a new Leica Q Safari limited edition camera. A total of 50 cameras will be produced only for the Japanese market. The price is ¥691,200 (around $6,280).
Leica already had a Leica Q Safari limited edition camera for the South Korean market:
Leica published their latest financial statements for the 2017/2018 financial year – here is a recap (Google translation):
According to its own statements, the long-established company realized around 417 million euros in the 2017/18 financial year (31 March), five percent more than in the previous year. Among other things, sales via own stores have proven to be successful.
Leica has recorded a sales increase for the fifth year in a row, said Investor Kaufmann, who had joined the then troubled camera manufacturer in 2004. Earnings before interest and taxes (Ebit) had increased recently by 17 percent. He did not name numbers.
“We have to stay on the ground, because a part of this industry has changed so brutally,” said Kaufmann also with a view to the camera competition by smartphones. “We think we are in a very good position, even with technological partners.” For example, Leica works with mobile phone manufacturer Huawei.
The full financial statements can be found here. Here is some additional information on financial filings from previous years:
A few months ago I had the chance to take a few sample photos with the Meyer Optik Görlitz Trioplan 50mm f/2.9 lens for Leica M-mount (check the latest pricing and availability at B&H and Adorama). The first thing I have to mention is that this lens is not rangefinder-coupled and focusing is possible only with focus peaking which pretty much limits the use to only Leicas M10 cameras. The lens is very well built. The focusing ring is smooth. Close focusing is possible with the separate close focusing ring. The lens doesn’t have a red dot mount mark and some may have difficulties mounting the lens. The camera comes with a nice lacquer box:
Leica USA has a new promotion – you will get a free Leica M-L adapter (Leica M-Adapter-L, $395 value) with the purchase of a new Leica CL mirrorless camera:
This offer is valid until September 30, 2018.
Via @PhotogDeals
Leica SL full frame mirrorless mount
Leica did not announce a new mirrorless camera last week as indicated by Dr. Kaufmann a few months ago. I still believe such new camera is coming and most likely got delayed. I would like to also remind you that Leica still has one more registered but not yet announced digital camera under the code name 4529:
Both the Leica D-Lux (left) and Leica C-Lux (right) are priced slightly above $1,000 – which one would you buy today? Here is a poll:
A quick specs comparison between the Leica D-Lux and Leica C-Lux:
