Leica news, before it happens

Excitement is building up. The Leica – Das Wesentliche event will start shorty in Cologne, Germany. This post will be updated multiple times, refresh your browser for the latest news (all times are EST):

New products to be announced:

• LEICA S: The synthesis of optimum imaging quality, perfect handling and outstanding speed
• LEICA SUPER-ELMAR-S 24 MM F/3.5 ASPH.: New super-wide lens with outstanding optical properties
• LEICA ELPRO-S 180: Accessory close-up lens extends the working range of the LEICA APO-ELMAR-S 180 mm f/3.5
• LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-S 30-90 MM F/3.5-5.6 ASPH.: The first zoom lens for the S-System with exceptional imaging quality and low weight
• LEICA TS-APO-ELMAR-S 120 MM F/5.6 ASPH. TILT/SHIFT LENS: Enables control of perspectives while maintaining the highest possible imaging quality and optimum handling
• LEICA M: The perfection of digital rangefinder technology
• LEICA M-E: The fascination of M-Photography reduced to essentials
• NEW RANGE OF ACCESSORIES FOR THE LEICA M EXPANDS SYSTEM CAPABILITIES
• LEICA X2 À LA CARTE: The ultimate bespoke style statement
• LEICA X2 “EDITION PAUL SMITH” SPECIAL LIMITED EDITION: Modern digital technology ‘Made in Germany’ meets extravagant styling from the world of fashion in new Leica “Edition Paul Smith” digital camera
• LEICA X2 DIGISCOPING-ADAPTER
• LEICA V-LUX 4: Compact Camera for travel, wildlife and sport photography
• LEICA D-LUX 6: Complete Creative Freedom Meets Timeless Design
• LIMITED SPECIAL EDITION LEICA ULTRAVID 8X20 AND 10X25 EDITION WITH EMBOSSED OSTRICH LEATHER TRIM
• LEICA PHOTO-ADAPTER FOR MOUNTING SYSTEM CAMERAS ON LEICA PREMIUM SPOTTING SCOPES

2:54 – Four empty stands on stage – for four new Leica products?

2:05 – One hour break, product announcements will start at 3:00pm EST

1:59 – I think the camera talk will start now

1:57 – More Leica Hall of Fame photographers on stage

1:52 – Steve McCurry on stage

1:47 – War photographer David Burnett on stage

1:40 – Kim Phuk from the famous napalm girl photo (taken with a Leica) now on stage

1:34 – Photographer Nick Ut on stage

1:28 – Karin Kaufmann (wife of Dr. Kaufmann) on stage

1:26 – New book to celebrate tre 99 years anniversary

1:24 – Leica CEO Alfred Schopf on stage

1:23 – Leica is celebrating 99 years. I predict many limited edition cameras next year for the 100 years anniversary.

1:18 – the event has started

1:14 – the presentation should be starting soon

12:41 – the stage is set; the entrance

12:39 – Leica’s website went black: