Yes, the spy pictures I published few weeks ago were indeed of the new Leica M digital rangefinder. My mockups were pretty close too. The red herring was the Leica mirrorless camera. The R lenses solution was implemented in the new M digital rangefinder and the M-E is the “cheaper” Leica mirrorless camera.
Today Leica announced their latest digital rangefinder camera and they simply called it Leica M. The company addressed all of the M9 drawbacks and delivered everything in one package for $6,950 (same price as the M9 when it came out). The Leica M is now available for pre-order in black and silver.
Press release:
The perfection of digital rangefinder technology
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) – Leica Camera presents a groundbreaking milestone in the nearly 60 year history of the Leica rangefinder system: The Leica M. Setting entirely new standards, the Leica M unites the ultimate in rangefinder precision with cutting edge digital technology. As the first camera to implement a newly designed CMOS image sensor and to feature additional focusing methods and functions such as Live View and Full HD video capability, it is the most versatile Leica rangefinder model ever. Remaining true to the legendary values of the M-System, the Leica M not only provides the advantages of rangefinder photography, but also for the first time, offers compatibility with Leica R legacy lenses. As with every innovation and development since the flagship line’s inception, the Leica M was created to capture fleeting moments of time and transform them into living history.
There was no mirrorless camera announcement today, instead Leica Camera reveled the M-E: an new “entry-level” digital rangefinder that has the same 18MP CCD sensor found in the original M9. The price of the Leica M-E is $5,450 and is available for pre-order here.
Press release:
The fascination of M-Photography reduced to essentials
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) – Leica Camera presents a new model in the Leica rangefinder system, the Leica M-E. Possessing the high level of technology perfected in the nearly six decades since the M-System’s introduction, the Leica M-E represents the essence of rangefinder photography. Rather than offering all that is technically possible, it is limited to only those functions that create a better image. These essentials include the M-System’s typical rapid manual focusing with the viewfinder/rangefinder and the focusing ring of the lens, as well as the option of selecting automatically determined or manually set shutter speeds. It is the ideal entry-level model for photographers wishing to experience the fascination of M-Photography or require a secondary camera that performs at an optimum level without fail.
Modern digital technology ‘Made in Germany’ meets extravagant styling from the world of fashion in new Leica “Edition Paul Smith” digital camera
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012,) – Leica Camera presents the Leica X2 “Edition Paul Smith,” a distinctive and vibrantly hued special edition in the Leica X range. International entrepreneur Paul Smith, widely regarded as one of the UK’s most successful fashion icons, is behind the camera’s stylish design. The Leica X2 is the ideal camera for anyone with a passion for photography in its purest form. Thus, extravagant flair from the world of fashion and advanced digital technology are united in this highly collectible special edition, strictly limited to 1,500 pieces.
The ultimate bespoke style statement
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) – Leica Camera announces the expansion of the ‘Leica à la carte‘ program, the exclusive concept for creating a Leica camera custom tailored to your personal taste. From vibrant and fashion forward to understated and discreet, Leica will offer a selection of styling options for the Leica X2 compact camera beginning in late October 2012. The Leica X2 continues the brand’s rich photojournalistic heritage in both style and function. First offered in 2004 for Leica rangefinder 35 mm film cameras, the ‘Leica à la carte’ program allows customers to select from a wide range of finishes and features. The resulting, uniquely personalized camera is then hand-crafted at the Leica Camera factory in Germany, a true statement piece to showcase a love of, and a passion for, photography.
Complete Creative Freedom Meets Timeless Design
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) – Leica Camera presents the latest model of the successful Leica D-Lux line of compact cameras. The Leica D-Lux 6 allows for the ultimate in creative flexibility, proving to be the ideal companion anytime inspiration arises. Enabling an imaging quality that sets entirely new standards in its class, the Leica D-Lux 6 unites an exceptionally fast lens with a newly developed 1.7″ CMOS image sensor that is particularly large for this compact camera format. Especially suitable for capturing vibrant art, architecture, music, fashion and design scenes, the D-Lux 6 offers a comprehensive range of features including automatic mode, manual setting options and new, Full HD video recording capability. Optional accessories, such as a new electronic viewfinder, provide even greater freedom in all areas of photography. Together with its intuitive handling concept, the classically elegant and stylish Leica D-Lux 6 proves to be a muse for compelling images.
Compact Camera for travel, wildlife and sport photography
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) – Leica Camera presents the Leica V-Lux 4, a digital compact camera that unites a high-performance lens, outstanding imaging quality and superior speed in a compact format. With its wide range of video functions and an impressive list of features, as well as its enormous versatility and very low weight, the new model is an serious alternative to comparable SLR systems. The V-Lux 4 is ideal for shooting landscapes, architecture, sport, travel, portraits or wildlife.
