I received a clarification from Leica regarding the Leica X1 Black Embossed Ostrich Limited Edition camera that was released in Japan last week and specifically the comment from PETA regarding the use of ostrich leather:
“I just wanted to let you know that this product is not made from real ostrich leather – it is an ‘ostrich effect’. We have never used ostrich leather on our products, and we have now confirmed this to the PETA organisation.”
Time to update my previous list of Leica expectation for Photokina. The folowing three products will be released for sure:
The rest is still unclear. The big question mark is still the mythical R-lens solution (or maybe a new Leica EVIL system camera?) – nobody has seen it, nobody has any real proof that it really exists, except that email Leica sent few days ago.
Expect announcements to start the day before Photokina, or on the first day of Photokina (September 21st).
I will continue to update this list if I get other reliable information in the next few days.
Based on previous release patterns, a new Leica D-Lux 5 is pretty much guaranteed to be released for Photokina. In addition, Leica is excepted to introduce a second Panasonic based camera with a fixed lens. The rumor is that this camera will be a high-end model, but there is no reference which Panasonic version will be used as a base. Looking at the current 2010 Panasonic camera line-up, potential candidates are the DMC-FZ100K and DMC-FZ40K models which could turn out be the successor to the Leica V-Lux 1.
LEICA CAMERA AT MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK
On-Site Leica Specialists Available to Loan-Out the S2 & M9
WHO:
Leica Camera Inc. will be offering fashion press and photographers at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week the opportunity to experience the renowned Leica S2 and Leica M9 professional-grade cameras. Leica product specialists will be on-site at a dedicated booth located near the entrance of the event to provide photographers and press with the unique opportunity to trial a Leica S2 or Leica M9 with lenses. Photographers in attendance are encouraged to try out the most advanced camera technology at the world’s preeminent runway shows.
After the first limited edition “Le Mans”, Leica will release a new X1 limited edition in Japan with black leather embossed ostrich. Only 80 pieces will be produced and the price will be around 230,000 yen or USD 2,400:
Via DCwatch
