I am just curious how many readers are planning on buying the newly announced Leica products - this post contains three different polls for the M9-M, X2 and 50mm Cron lens. I did not include the M9-P Hermes limited edition because they will be all sold out anyway.

Leica M Monochrom, 18MP B&W only sensor, $7,950.00:

Leica X2, 24mm f/2.8, APS-C 16.2MP, EVF, $1,995.00:

APO Summicron 50mm f/2 ASPH lens for Leica M rangefinders, $7,195.00:

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2. New Leica products available for pre-order
3. LFI magazine promises new products coverage in their next issue

Serious Compacts published a very interesting podcast with Jono Slack on the latest Leica products that were announced last week. The full podcast is also available for free on iTunes.

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3. The latest Leica rumors

This year Leica Camera AG reported a record number of entries for the 2012 Oskar Barnack award - so far there are 2,800 submissions from 101 different countries compared to 2000 entries for last year. The winners will be announced on 20 June 2012.

Oskar Barnack Award 2012 Jury Video from Leica Camera on Vimeo.

Get an inside look at the 2012 Oskar Barnack Award Jury in action. The jury members included: Bruce Gilden, Magnum photographer, Stephan Erfurt, Director of the C/O Berlin, Valérie Fougeirol, Creative Director of the Magnum Gallery in Paris, Karin Rehn-Kaufmann, Artistic Director of the Leica Galerie in Salzburg and Brigitte Schaller, Art Director of Leica Fotografie International magazine.

The winners of the two awards, the Leica Oskar Barnack Award and the Leica Oskar Barnack Newcomer Award 2012, will be announced on 20 June 2012.

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3. Invitation to submit entries for the 2012 Leica Oskar Barnack Award

In an interview with BJP, Dr. Andreas Kaufmann hinted that Leica may not be ready with their new mirrorless interchangeable lens camera system for Photokina 2012:

"We can't produce enough of what we already have. There's a project in place, but no timeframe. But you should come to our event on 17 September to see what we have."

On the same topic, the CEO of Leica Alfred Schopf said:

"We already have the best compact camera system here, with the M9. Now, we have to look at the size of the lenses. Do we like having a Coca-Cola can in front of a small camera body. The combination between the camera body and the lens has to fit."

Regarding the upcoming Leica M10, Dr. Kaufman confirmed to BJP that the new M camera will have video recording capabilities and that they were able to solve several problems like data rate, battery lifecycle and heat emissions.

A new M10 with CMOS sensor, live view and video was already mentioned by Stefan Daniel last year.

Leica Camera AG will continue to work with Truesense Imaging on future sensor development.

For Photokina 2012, Leica have booked the entire Hall 1 of the Cologne exhibition center.

There were also some rumors that Leica may introduce a new S3 medium format camera for Photokina.

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1. Leica to launch a new compact mirrorless system camera at Photokina 2012
2. Leica’s new compact mirrorless system camera: priced between the X1 and M9, compatible with M-mount lenses
3. Will someone produce a Leica M-mount lens adapter for the Fuji X-PRO 1 mirrorless camera?

At the May 12th WestLicht Photographica auction in Vienna, a new record was set for the most expensive camera in the world - this Leica 0-Serie camera with serial number 116 sold for 2,160,000 EUR (around 2,790,000 USD). The previous world record  was also for a Leica 0-Serie Nr.107 that sold for 1.3 million EUR (1.9 million USD) last year.

This Leica M3 Gold sold for EUR 360.000 (around 460,000 USD):

Leica M3 gold © WestLicht Photographica Auction

All auction results can be found on westlicht-auction.com (PDF file available here), all M cameras are listed here.

Video of the actual bidding for the Leica 0-Series camera:

All expectations of the 21st WestLicht camera auction were exceeded: For the 5th time the world record for the most expensive camera ever sold was broken at a WestLicht auction in Vienna with a winning bid of 2,160,000,- EUR including buyer’s premium.

The third of the 629 lots to be auctioned, with a starting price of 300,000 EUR was an extremely rare exemplar of the Leica 0-Series, a test camera from the year 1923. In an exciting bidding war between the room, phone and internet bidders, the price of the camera climbed to a new world record. The bidder who secured the rare exemplar would like to remain anonymous.

Further highlights of the camera-auction:
One of only two existing M3 Leica cameras (Lot 113), that was officially gold plated by Leitz, was sold for 360,000 Euro (starting price 40,000; Estimate 70,000 – 90,000 Euro).

A 250FF (Lot 34), one of the most exiting screw-mount Leica cameras ever offered for sale in auction, climbed from a starting price of 12,000 to 120,000 EUR.

An Elcan 1/90mm + KE-7A (186) had a 228,000 Euro collector’s value.
(Starting price 30,000). This ultra-rare and extremely fast lens was produced for the US Navy, only 10 of these were made. This is the first lens in the series and was for the first time offered in auction!

In total 95 percent of the camera lots were sold, and the total turnover of the 21st camera auction was 5,351,000 EUR.

All images © WestLicht Photographica Auction

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2. The most expensive Leica camera ever was sold during the last Westlicht auction
3. WestLicht Photographica Auction results

At the recent Tamarkin & Bertoldi Vintage Auctions, a black enamel Leica MP-126 with a 50mm Summicron lens sold for $130,000 plus commissions - a total of $158,000. The complete auction results can be found on tamarkin.com.

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2. The next Tamarkin Photographica Auction will be held on April 29, 2012
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Allendale, NJ (May 11, 2012) – Leica Camera Inc., the legendary German camera and sport optics brand, announces the opening of the Leica Boutique at Camera West in Rancho Mirage, CA. Featuring an extensive selection of the Leica photography and sport optics product portfolio, the store-in-store retail concept provides an exceptional resource for professional and amateur photographers to experience Leica Camera firsthand. The Leica Boutique at Camera West will celebrate its grand opening on May 19, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

“Leica Camera offers photographers unparalleled creative freedom and inspiration by producing products of outstanding quality and craftsmanship. Leica Boutiques celebrate these core values and create an incomparable buying experience for our customers,” said Roland Wolff, Director of Corporate Retail at Leica Camera Inc. “With the partnership between Leica Camera and Camera West, Leica aficionados, professional and amateur photographers as well as those new to the brand have the opportunity to discover Leica Camera in a memorable and interactive setting.”

To celebrate the grand opening, Leica Representatives will be on hand to present newly announced products in the Leica portfolio. In addition, Leica Product Specialist Ben Ross will demonstrate the Leica S2, a revolutionary digital camera concept for supreme professional requirements. A complimentary brunch will be offered during the morning hours and hors d'oeuvres in the afternoon.

To RSVP to the opening celebration events, please email RSVP@camerawest.com.

Store hours are 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Monday - Friday and 10am-4pm Saturday. The location is closed Sunday. Camera West is located at:
70-177 Hwy 111, #100
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
Phone: 760.992.5422

Leica Boutiques complement Leica Stores and an extensive dealer network. For additional information, please visit www.camerawest.com.

About Leica Camera:
Leica represents a union of craftsmanship, technology and experience. It is at once an extension of art, knowledge and philosophy, providing a state-of-the-art optical experience in a precision, hand-made photographic instrument. Leica Camera has a simple mission: to provide users with an incomparable experience, an instrument that defines an unsurpassed heritage and sets a standard of excellence for the industry to meet.

About Camera West:
Camera West is a California-based business which specializes in the highest quality photographic equipment. Camera West was founded January 2000 by Sean Cranor, and is staffed by professionals who are passionate about photography. The staff possesses expert product knowledge. The store provides exemplary customer service and is dedicated to strong, long-term, customer relationships.

Product offerings span from large format to subminiature, in both digital and analog formats. Camera West also stocks new and used items, from the latest digital cameras, backs, printers and accessories to rare and unusual collectible cameras and museum pieces.

Camera West operates two locations in Rancho Mirage, CA and Walnut Creek, CA.

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Few videos of Leica's May 10th event from Leica Camera AG and Eric Kim:

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The new Leica products are now available for pre-order:

Adorama

• Leica 50mm f/2 APO-Summicron-M Aspherical lens
• Leica M9 Monochrom rangefinder
• Leica V-Lux 40
• Leica X2 camera black
• Leica X2 camera silver

B&H

• Leica 50mm f/2 APO-Summicron-M Aspherical lens
• Leica M9 Monochrom rangefinder
• Leica V-Lux 40
• Leica X2 camera black
• Leica X2 camera silver
• Leica X2 leather case (brown)
• Leica X2 ever-ready case
• Leica X2 camera protector

DalePhoto

• Leica 50mm f/2 APO-Summicron-M Aspherical lens
• Leica M9 Monochrom rangefinder
• Leica X2 camera black
• Leica X2 camera silver
• Leica S-Adapter H

Check the posts bellow for additional coverage of the new Leica products.

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2. Full list of Leica products with a price increase
3. New Leica products leaked (Leica M Monochrome, X2, 50mm Cron)

The first previews of the new Leica products are already online (I will continue to add links to this post in the next few days):

• Few M9-M samples and thoughts from japancamerahunter.com.
• First Leica X2 review.
• Leica M9-M review with many samples.
• Leica M9 Monochrome samples at PopPhoto.
• Leica M9-M samples on Leica's website (large size jpg samples can be downloaded here).
• Check www.leicamonochrom.com for M9-M sample images.
• Leica X2  ISO comparison to Leica X1 and Fujifilm X100.
• More Leica X2 ISO samples.
• RedDotForum coverage of the event.
• Leica M9-M hands-on at luminous-landscape.
• Leica M9-M preview on dpreview with sample images.
• Leica M9-M review form the l-camera-forum.

Most of the new Leica products are now available for pre-order except the M9-P Hermes limited edition that will be available only in selected Leica Boutiques. There are also several new videos on the new Leica products:

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2. New Leica products leaked (Leica M Monochrome, X2, 50mm Cron)
3. What to expect from Leica next week: M9-M, X2, 50mm Cron lens (updated)

Solms Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG presents the Leica M Monochrom, the world’s first digital camera exclusively for full-frame, 35 mm black-and-white photography. Featuring a sensor designed specifically for this purpose, the new addition to the Leica portfolio enables photographers to capture images in outstanding black-and-white quality, setting entirely new standards. The latest camera in the flagship Leica M-System, the Leica M Monochrom continues the successful story of the Leica rangefinder system, which has written numerous chapters in the history of innovative photography.

“Black-and-white photography is more popular than ever before. Even today, it has lost none of its fascination as an expressive medium, not even for younger generations of photographers. This is confirmed by the numerous monochrome images shown by members of the M-Community, who we are in constant contact with,” said Jesko von Oeynhausen, Product Manager for the M-System at Leica Camera AG. “For the first time ever, we are offering an opportunity to consistently and authentically explore black-and-white photography with the M Monochrom, a tool that is unique in the digital world. The camera’s exclusively black-and-white sensor brings an enormous technical benefit that is reflected in the amazing imaging quality it delivers.”

The 18 MP image sensor of the M Monochrom is perfectly matched to the unique properties of the Leica M-System and the superior performance of Leica M-Lenses. As the sensor does not ‘see’ colors, every pixel records true luminance values – as a result, it delivers ‘true’ black-and-white images that are significantly sharper than comparable exposures from a camera with a color-sensitive sensor.

To allow precise control of tonal values, the Leica M Monochrom offers a raw data histogram display to exhibit original, unprocessed and unmodified raw data. This, combined with a configurable clipping display, allows precise correction or optimization of exposures.

At the touch of a button, images captured by the M Monochrom can be converted with characteristic toning effects from black-and-white film photography (sepia, cold or selenium toning). All users need to

do is save the image in JPEG format and select the desired toning effect – simply and conveniently, with no need for post-processing.

The classic, iconic design of the Leica M-cameras is carried forward by the Leica M Monochrom. The matte-black finish of the chromed top deck allows the camera to be an unobtrusive tool. Only an engraved script on the accessory shoe reveals the product name. The camera features particularly soft leather trim with ideal grip that perfectly complements the camera’s discreet character. The camera package also includes a genuine leather carrying strap in premium full-grain cowhide.

The M Monochrom is supplied complete with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, a professional digital workflow solution. The software is available to customers as an online download after product registration. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom offers a wide range of functions for the management, processing and presentation of digital images. For example, this software allows for the creation of simple print layouts, slide shows and photo books.

A full-version of Silver Efex Pro 2, the world’s leading black-and-white image processing software, is also included in the package. Silver Efex Pro 2 offers an impressive collection of unique and powerful, darkroom-inspired tools for the creation of high quality black-and-white images. Silver Efex Pro 2 emulates over 20 different types of black-and-white film to recreate the glory of classical black-and-white film photography. The emulation of each film type is based on the analysis of many rolls of the respective type and guarantees perfect reproduction of the characteristic look of many popular films from ISO 32 to ISO 3200.

For the production of high-quality black-and-white prints, Leica Camera AG also offers a unique service in collaboration with Whitewall. After registering their Leica M Monochrom on the Leica website, customers can have their digital images from the M Monochrom printed on premium-quality baryte paper. These prints can be ordered from Whitewall through a personal link.

From photojournalism and available light photography to discreet, artistically aesthetic, creative compositions – the Leica M Monochrom adapts flexibly to every application and enables the expression of personal photographic style and consciously creative composition. The enormous potential performance of the current M-Lens portfolio, with focal lengths from 16 to 135 mm, is also fully accessible. In line with Leica’s renowned commitment to extreme system compatibility, almost all lenses of the Leica M range built since 1954 can still be used on the M Monochrom.

All characteristic properties of the Leica rangefinder system are also present in the new Leica M Monochrom. This, for instance, also includes the system’s intuitive and discreet handling. Its manual focusing based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder concept and aperture priority exposure mode is an aid to photographers rather than placing undesired limitations on their creative freedom. In combination with the monitor display on the back of the camera, the simple menu navigation needs only a few control elements to enable rapid access to the entire range of camera functions. Together with its compact construction, the camera’s almost silent shutter benefits discreet and unobtrusive photography. Photographers can even select the appropriate moment for re-cocking the shutter. When longer exposure times requiring an extremely steady camera stance are essential, a slight pressure on the shutter release button in ‘soft release’ mode is sufficient.

All functions of the Leica M Monochrom are constructed with extreme robustness and a long working life in mind. Its one-piece, full-metal housing, made from a high-strength magnesium alloy, and the top deck and bottom plate, machined from solid brass blanks, provide perfect protection for its precious inner mechanisms. The digital components and shutter assembly of the M Monochrom are similarly constructed with a view to a lifetime of endurance. For photographers, this provides absolute reliability over decades of use. The experienced hands of Leica technicians at the factory in Solms are responsible for the assembly and calibration of M Monochrom bodies and the precise testing of all mechanical and electrical components. Leica Customer Care has decades of experience in repairs and maintenance and therefore creates a solid foundation for long life and enduring value. Even today, the service department maintains and repairs all M-Cameras built since 1954.

The Leica M-System has played a significant role in the development of the company’s performance in recent years. The annual figures have been correspondingly positive since the launch of the Leica M9 in September 2009 and are now registering record revenues.

The Leica M Monochrom in black chrome will be available from Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC beginning in late July 2012.

The price of the Leica M9-M is $7,950.00.

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Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG presents a new milestone in the history of lens construction: the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. With the goal of creating a lens that fully achieves the opportunities offered by high-resolution camera systems, Leica engineers have successfully redefined the limits of what is technically possible. The result is an extremely high-performance lens that sets entirely new standards and currently stands as an exceptional talent amongst the standard lenses of the Leica M portfolio.

This new reference lens achieves the best test results ever seen in the Leica M-Lens program. The MTF curves of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. that describe the contrast of fine details and, in turn, the image sharpness, confirm its outstanding performance. Even the finest details are resolved with more than 50% contrast across the entire image field. This previously unattained value confirms the exceptional positioning of this lens. All images captured with the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. in any photographic situation show extreme sharpness and resolution of details from corner to corner of the image. Additionally, the apochromatic correction of the lens minimizes chromatic aberration on sharp edges to ensure natural rendition of every detail. As a result, photographers benefit from the best possible reproduction results at any print size.

The outstanding performance of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is founded on the perfect interaction of all its design and construction parameters, from optical calculation and choice of materials to the sophisticated and elaborate manufacturing and finishing of the lens. Together with more than 150 years of experience in the design and construction of optical instruments, Leica’s reputation as the manufacturer of the world’s best lenses is once again emphasized.

The new design of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is based on the optical design of its predecessor that has been on the market since 1979 and is the oldest lens represented in the Leica M portfolio. The classical specifications, 50 mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f2, offered an ideal starting point for further development. As such, Leica’s expert lens designers were able to concentrate exclusively on the improvement of imaging quality within these standard specifications.

In its optical design, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is oriented on particular features of the Summilux-M 50 mm f/1.4 ASPH. and the Summilux-M 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH. lenses. For instance, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. also incorporates a floating element. The lens group behind the diaphragm is designed as a floating element that changes its position relative to the front group during focusing, ensuring that the lens achieves outstanding imaging quality throughout its focusing range, including at closer focusing distances.

The realization of the apochromatic correction of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. involved the use of specially formulated glasses based on original developments from the former Leitz glass laboratory. The use of such glasses requires great effort and many years of experience. As a result of the consistent advancement of optical processes, working with these high-quality glasses has been refined to such a fine art that they are integrated in the best possible quality into Leica lenses as evidenced today in the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH.

As a particularly reliable product with enduring value and made in Germany, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is manufactured from only the best materials and is assembled in an elaborate process completely by hand at Leica’s factory in Solms. The combination of cutting-edge technologies and painstaking manufacturing procedures guarantees the consistently excellent quality of every single Leica lens.

The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. in black finish will be available from Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC from late July 2012.

The price of the new Leica 50mm Summicron lens is $7195.00.

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Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG presents the X2, a new addition to the X-line of compact digital cameras. Handmade at Leica’s headquarters in Germany, the Leica X2 features a new APS-C-format professional CMOS image sensor with over 16.5 megapixels (effective 16.2 MP). In combination with the high-performance Leica Elmarit 24 mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens, a classic focal length for photojournalism, this sensor ensures maximum image quality and sparkling brilliance. With its refined styling and high-performance technical features, the Leica X2 offers unsurpassed performance in a compact package.

The Leica X2’s autofocus system has also been enhanced, allowing the camera to adapt to all shooting situations with enormous flexibility and enabling fast, extremely precise and almost silent focusing. The camera’s profile is complemented by numerous setting options from full manual control to automatic functions and an intuitive handling concept. These features make the Leica X2 the ideal premium-class compact camera for discerning photographers who wish to concentrate completely on their subjects and appreciate creative and true-to-life pictures.

The CMOS image sensor of the X2 is unusually large for a camera in the compact segment. Despite its high resolution of over 16 megapixels, each individual pixel on the sensor is very large, allowing the X2 to gather more light. The resulting benefits include low image noise, a high dynamic range and accurate color differentiation. The crop factor of the sensor is 1.5 in comparison with 35-mm film format, meaning that the Leica Elmarit 24 mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens of the Leica X2 becomes a universal reportage lens with an effective 35-mm-equivalent focal length of 36 millimeters. This is considered to be a classic focal length amongst prime lenses and has captured innumerable iconic images. The moderate wide-angle character and natural rendition of dimensions by the high-performance lens of the X2 open up a broad spectrum of different options for capturing those decisive moments in outstanding, authentic and richly detailed picture quality.

As a result of its simple operating concept, the Leica X2 offers clearly laid-out functions and intuitive handling. At the same time, it offers an impressive range of automatic and versatile manual setting options. Thanks to the ease of switching between manual and automatic control, photographers can concentrate completely on composing their subjects and choosing the decisive instant to shoot in any situation. The dials on the top deck provide grip when setting the shutter speed and aperture. Moreover, changing the plane of focus, the white balance and other imaging parameters allows photographers to consciously influence the look or mood of their images. In live view mode, the generously sized high-contrast 2.7" monitor offers photographers complete control at all times and a bright and detailed view, even in strong light.

The features offered by the Leica X2 provide greater creative freedom and a wide range of photographic options. For instance, the Leica X2’s large sensor and fast lens make it ideal for shooting in available light. The camera also features a pop-up flash that can be activated whenever an additional light source is required. If more lighting power and flexibility are required, the accessory shoe of the X2 offers full compatibility with the Leica SF 24D and SF 58 system flash units.

The Leica X2 is characterized by clear lines and an intensely focused design concept. The linearity of its design and its compact, handy form are reminiscent of the Leica M-cameras. This, in combination with its robust, all-metal construction and premium, high-grip leather trim makes the X2 a classic Leica camera in both looks and feel. The camera is available in a discreet black or elegant silver finish.

An extensive range of accessories is also available to adapt the Leica X2 to each photographer’s individual photographic needs and style. A new offering is the Viso-Flex high-resolution electronic accessory finder with 1.4 megapixels and a 90° swivel function for shooting from unusual angles. Also available is a bright-line mirror finder that can be mounted on the accessory shoe and ensures a bright and clear view at all times, with no drain on the camera battery. An accessory handgrip increases the hold and stability of the camera and makes it easier to shoot one-handed. Leica continues to offer a comprehensive range of bags and cases: a premium-quality black leather case to match the elegance of the X2, an ergonomically designed camera protector in untreated leather, an ever-ready case in organically tanned cowhide to protect the camera during use and a system bag that offers more room for the camera and a range of accessories.

Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, a professional digital workflow solution for Apple Mac® OS X and Microsoft Windows®, is also included in the X2 package. This digital image processing software offers a

wide range of functions for the management, processing and presentation of digital images. Leica X2 customers can download the software free from the Leica website after registering their camera.

The Leica X2 is available now through Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC. The optional accessories will be available after the market launch of the camera.

The price of the Leica X2 is $1,995.00.

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Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG presents a new limited edition: the Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès”. Following the highly successful Leica MP “Edition Hermès” (2003) and the Leica M7 “Edition Hermès” (2009), this camera is the third in a line of premium special editions of the Leica M-System to be created in collaboration with the renowned Parisian house. The Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès” is being offered in a strictly limited edition. The exclusive numbers, unique product design and premium finishing with numerous extras make this a truly special edition in every respect.

The highlight of the Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès” is the “Veau Swift” calfskin leather in “ocre,” supplied by Hermès for the leathering of the silver-chromed version of the Leica M9-P camera. This extremely fine and supple leather is applied not only to the camera body, but is also used for the shoulder strap included in the set. The camera also sports a special design, created in collaboration with the automotive designer Walter de’Silva. Furthermore, various features of the camera body have been redesigned, including the top deck, the base plate, the shutter speed dial, the multifunction wheel and the shutter release. These details distinguish the cameras from the standard version of the Leica M9-P and emphasize the unique status of the limited edition. In addition to a dedicated serial number, each camera also bears one of a series of consecutive limited-edition numbers.

The Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès” is offered in two different sets, with either one or three lenses. When compared with their standard versions, the design of all the lenses incorporates numerous differences in their details, ensuring a perfect harmonization of the cameras, their lenses and accessories.

This first of the Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès” sets is available from June 2012 in a worldwide limited edition of 300. In addition to the camera, the set includes a silver-anodized Leica Summilux-M 50 mm f/1.4 ASPH.

Following this will be a very special set available from July 2012. The Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès – Série Limitée Jean-Louis Dumas” is a celebration of the friendship and collaboration between Jean-Louis Dumas, the former president of Hermès, who passed away in May 2010, and Leica Camera AG. A strictly limited edition of only 100, the camera in this set is accompanied by three lenses: a Leica Summicron-M 28 mm f/ 2 ASPH., a Leica Noctilux-M 50 mm f/0.95 ASPH. and a Leica APO-Summicron-M 90 mm f/ 2 ASPH., all featuring a silver-anodized finish.
This unique collection of photographic equipment finds a fitting home in a hand-finished Hermès camera bag that is available exclusively as a part of the Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès – Série Limitée Jean-Louis Dumas.” The camera bag is the first Leica camera bag ever to have been created by Hermès, a company world-famous for its manufacturing excellence. As an homage to Jean-Louis Dumas, a Leica photographer, this second set also includes a book with a selection of his pictures. The photographic work in two volumes shows an entertainingly diverse portfolio of 200 black-and-white images on 190 pages, all captured by Jean-Louis Dumas with his Leica M camera.

In the limited edition, the frame selector lever, accessory shoe and Leica script on the top deck have been omitted in favor of its unique design. In all other technical details, the cameras and lenses of the special editions are identical to those of the standard versions.
The Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès” and Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès – Série Limitée Jean-Louis Dumas” are available exclusively through Leica Stores and Leica Boutiques, including the Leica Store Washington DC.

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Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG presents the V-Lux 40, a new addition to Leica’s digital compact camera portfolio. Incorporating numerous new features in comparison with its predecessor, the Leica V-Lux 30, this latest model offers greater performance of its 15.3-megapixel (effective 14.1 MP), 1/2.33" CMOS sensor and a Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. lens with a zoom range now extended to 20×. As a result of the broadened range of focal lengths, now equivalent to 24 to 480 mm in 35-mm format, the Leica V-Lux 40 is a much more versatile camera. In addition, the LCD touch screen ensures the fast and simple handling of the camera. Its compact design, comprehensive functions and additional features, such as an integrated GPS module or video recording in full HD quality, make the V-Lux 40 the ideal companion for capturing lasting memories whether traveling the world or enjoying time with family at home.

The Leica V-Lux 40’s new 15.3-megapixel (effective 14.1 MP), 1/2.33" CMOS image sensor guarantees outstanding picture quality in all situations. It enables a higher dynamic range as well as particularly low-noise images at sensitivities up to ISO 3200. In comparison to its predecessor, the Leica V-Lux 40 now offers significantly improved image quality, even in low light. Additionally, an autofocus speed of 0.1 seconds enables even faster focusing on moving subjects.

The enormous range of focal lengths covered by the V-Lux 40’s Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. zoom lens (equivalent to 24 to 480 millimeters in 35-mm format) makes it ideal for almost all photographic situations. For expansive landscapes, finely detailed macro studies at short distances or for shots of distant objects with its super-telephoto setting, this Leica lens with high-precision aspherical lenses and an image stabilizer delivers outstanding results for all still images and video recordings.

The Leica V-Lux 40 offers a comprehensive range of camera functions. Users can choose from a diverse selection of creative imaging options, from a continuous shooting rate of ten frames per second at full resolution and 60 frames per second in high-speed mode, to creative modes with effects like miniature, panorama and retro.

Ideal for capturing video, the Leica V-Lux 40’s entire 20× zoom range is available during recording. In addition, an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack. Videos can now also be saved in Internet-friendly MP4 format and uploaded directly to social media or mobile devices, for example, without any need for conversion.

An integrated GPS module completes the list of features and functions offered by the V-Lux 40, allowing users to save the geographical coordinates and local time of every shot captured in the Exif data of the image files.* In addition, the camera can display the sightseeing highlights of the immediate neighborhood (1,000,000 so-called ‘points of interest’). A DVD included in the package contains maps of important cities and regions. After transfer to an SD memory card, these can be uploaded to the camera and used for orientation in unfamiliar places. Photos can be stored in the maps as thumbnail images.

The new design of the Leica V-Lux 40 is dominated by classic black. Chromed elements set contrasting accents and complement the camera’s refined and timelessly elegant look. Particularly easy handling is ensured by a large, 3-inch LCD touch screen that allows users to select or set numerous functions in capture and review mode simply by touching controls displayed on the monitor screen. This oversized screen has a diagonal of 7.5 centimeters and its resolution of 460,000 pixels displays images with outstanding brilliance. As a result, the Leica V-Lux 40 is an ideal tool for reliable and precise assessment of images both during composition and after capture.

The Leica V-Lux 40 is available now from Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC. The camera is supplied with an extensive software package comprised of Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 10 for still-image processing and Adobe® Premiere® Elements 10, designed especially for video processing. A strong and resilient leather case is also available as an optional extra.

* It is possible that GPS tagging may not function in the People’s Republic of China and neighboring regions. Satellite signal reception may be impossible, depending on the location. In such cases, the positioning data may be recorded inaccurately or not at all.

The price of the Leica V-Lux 40 is $699.00.

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Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG presents a new accessory for the Leica S professional camera system: the Leica S-Adapter H. This adapter allows the portfolio of Hasselblad H-system lenses to be mounted onto a Leica S2 camera body with all lens functions, such as autofocus, central shutter control and automatic diaphragm, retained. The smart electronics of the adapter facilitate the complete integration of the lenses into the Leica S-System.

The Hasselblad H-system features a total of 11 central shutter lenses with focal lengths from 28 to 300 mm. As the S2 features a dual shutter system, users may toggle between the focal plane shutter (FPS) in the camera body or the central shutter (CS) in the lens utilizing the main switch. Photographers now have access to numerous additional lenses that increase the photographic options offered by the Leica S-System.

Hasselblad H-system users also benefit from the new adapter. The versatility of Hasselblad H lenses is expanded considerably when combined with an S2. For instance, as a result of the dual shutter system of the Leica S2, H lenses can be now used with the focal plane shutter at speeds of up to 1/4000th of a second. In combination with the Leica Maestro high-performance image processor, the camera’s image sensor enables perfect, noise-free exposures up to ISO 1250.

Furthermore, the DNG format of images from the S2 enables direct connection to Adobe Lightroom 4 workflow software and seamless data transfer to Adobe Photoshop. The dedicated lens correction profiles computed by Leica for both programs help photographers to achieve maximum performance from the H lenses. In cases of a longer shooting session with high image frequency, the S2 also offers significant advantages due to its low power consumption. The optional multifunctional grip S with separate controls is a particularly useful aid for optimum camera handling for portrait-format shots.

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Solms, Germany (May 10, 2012) - Leica Camera AG is expanding the product range for the Leica S professional camera system with five new central shutter lenses, available from October 2012. The new models are the Leica Elmarit-S 30 mm f/2.8 ASPH. and Leica Summarit-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH. wide-angle lenses, the Leica Summarit-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. standard lens, the Leica APO-Macro-Summarit-S 120 mm f/2.5 tele-macro lens and the Leica APO-Tele-Elmar-S 180 mm f/3.5 telephoto lens, all of which will also be available in a CS version with a central shutter. Designed and constructed exclusively by Leica, the central shutter available for all S lenses is not only especially compact and efficient, but also has a guaranteed service life of at least 100,000 shutter cycles, making it extremely reliable.

The Leica S2-System features a dual shutter concept, allowing photographers to choose a shutter system to meet their needs and the particular situation before every shot. The camera body is constructed with a metal focal plane shutter offering a top speed of 1/4000th of a second and flash sync at 1/125th. The main switch on the S2 camera body allows users to rapidly change to central shutter use as soon as a CS lens is mounted. With a top speed of 1/1000th of a second, the central shutter offers a working range expanded by three f-stops. Users now have considerably more leeway for creative lighting, such as studio flash systems that may be used to suppress ambient light or to create fill light in bright surroundings at larger lens apertures. As a result of the seamless integration of the central shutter function in the camera’s electronics, photographers can switch rapidly between the two shutter systems at any time.

First and foremost in the development of all products is the consistent dedication to creating tools to fulfill the stringent demands of professional users of the Leica S medium format system in their everyday photographic work. The objective of the Leica S-System is to provide absolutely reliable equipment that guarantees extreme precision and a particularly long operational lifespan.

The new central shutter designed and constructed by the Leica engineers in Solms is a masterpiece of high-tech mechatronics. The Leica central shutter offers high performance and is so compact in size that it can be integrated without any problems in all S lenses. With a guaranteed life of over 100,000 shutter cycles per lens, it is also extremely durable and dependable in constant use. For the first time, the dust- and splash-proof construction of the lenses and camera now makes it possible to use the system under difficult conditions for ‘on location’ shots with the central shutter without any fears of equipment failure.

The first shipments of the CS versions of the Leica S lenses to Leica dealers including the Leica Store Washington DC will be available from October 2012.

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• Leica S-System Expanded By Five S-Lenses With Central Shutter: Available From October 2012
• Leica Camera AG Expands The Leica S Professional Camera System: New Leica S-Adapter H Enables use of Hasselblad H Lenses on the Leica S2
• Leica M Monochrom: The Future Of Black-And-White Photography
• New Leica Limited Editions: Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès” / Leica M9-P “Edition Hermès - Série Limiteé Jean-Louis Dumas”
• Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 MM F/2 ASPH.: The New Milestone In Lens Construction
• Leica X2: The Next Generation Of The Leica Compact Digital Camera
• Leica V-Lux 40: Compact Camera With An Extensive Range Of Features

Full press releases and images coming soon.

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I mentioned that few days ago - there will be also two more Leica M9 Hermes limited edition kits that will probably be announced today:

There is again some talk about two new Hermes Limited Edition kits - the first one will have 1 camera + 1 lens, the other one will have 1 camera + 2 or 3 lenses and will probably include a silver Noctilux with a price tag of €40.000. I don't think those will be announced next week. Update: I've heard also that buyers may have to sign an agreement not to sell the unit within 2 years of purchase.

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