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Posts Tagged ‘limited’

Ricoh reveals D FA 21mm Limited, DA 16-50mm F2.8 and details D FA* 85mm F1.4

15 May

Ricoh has published a video setting out its development plans for three new lenses, including a constant F2.8 standard zoom for APS-C, a 21mm lens in its much-loved ‘Limited’ prime lens series and gave more details of the FA*85mm F1.4.

The company says its announcements were originally planned for the cancelled CP+ trade show, that was supposed to take place in February 2020 in Yokohama, Japan.

The company gave more details of the HD Pentax-D FA* 85mm F1.4ED SDM AW first announced in March 2020. This is the first 85mm Pentax lens designed specifically for digital cameras. The lens will include three super ED lenses, which behave similarly to fluorite elements, to minimize chromatic aberration. They say this should avoid the purple or green edges that can be distracting in wide aperture portraits.

The design also utilizes a concave front element, which the company says reduces some aberrations. The spherical aberration has been optimized to provide attractive bokeh, rather than solely prioritizing sharpness. They claim this will result in ‘the finest lens in its class.’

The lens will be launched later in 2020, with a more definitive announcement soon.

Alongside the 85mm, the company showed the forthcoming D FA 21mm Limited lens as an addition its range of prime lenses. Like the other ‘Limited’ lenses, it will feature metal construction and will be available in black or silver. The focal length was chosen as one that’s not currently available in the lineup. The maximum aperture was not disclosed.

Unlike the current Limited series lenses, the D FA 21mm will have a built-in DC focus motor, rather than being driven by the camera body. It will also be weather sealed. The lens will be available in 2021.

For APS-C users, there will be a lens current called the HD Pentax DA* 16-50mm F2.8ED PLM AW, a completely new constant F2.8 standard zoom for APS-C. This, like the 85mm, will be part of the ‘new-generation’ star range.

It will be powered by a PLM ‘Pulse’ motor, which has meant a complete optical redesign with a light focus element to suit the fast, quiet motor. The company is aiming to have the lens ready in the first half of 2021, to more closely coincide with a promised APS-C flagship camera.

The company’s manager of product planning, Tetsuya Iwasaki also promised that the company will also develop some smaller and reasonably priced lenses in future.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica, Lenny Kravitz produce limited edition ‘Drifter’ M Monochrom with snakeskin finish

24 May

Rock star and keen photographer Lenny Kravitz has produced another limited edition camera in partnership with Leica Germany, this time with a rock ‘n’ roll feel—and a snakeskin covering.

The Drifter is a Leica M Monochrom kit that comes with Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH, and an APO-Summicron-M 75mm f/2 ASPH lenses and a case to carry them. All the items in the kit are finished with a sepia brown paint and the camera and strap use a synthetic snakeskin that is designed to reflect Kravitz’s wardrobe.

Leica says the result is an ‘attention-commanding and soulful Leica camera made for global touring,’ with Kravitz adding ‘I’m a drifter […] That has been my life since I was 15-years-old; I’m always on the road.’

Other than the finish the camera is a standard M Monochrom, but will also feature untreated brass on the hotshoe rails, the thumb wheel, the shutter button and the soft-release button to lend it a stylish vintage look over time.

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This is the second limited edition M camera Lenny Kravitz has been involved with, coming up with the design for the Correspondent version of the M-P in 2015 in memory of his reporter father. The Drifter kit will be limited to only 125 globally, and will cost $ 23,950 / £20,500. Kravitz’s accompanying “Drifter” photo exhibition is currently being showcased at the Leica Gallery in Wetzlar, Germany. For more information see the Leica website.

Press release:

One for the road: new limited-edition Leica M Monochrom ‘Drifter’ is Lenny Kravitz’s ode to touring

Leica Camera AG and Kravitz Design have collaborated on a camera built for rock n’ roll nomads who can be found on either side of the lens. The look of the Leica M Monochrom ‘Drifter’ has been created by Grammy-winning musician, actor and artist Lenny Kravitz, who is no stranger to bold style and individual expression. The result is an attention-commanding and soulful Leica camera made for global touring. The name is inspired by how Kravitz sees himself, “I’m a drifter. That has been my life since I was 15-years-old; I’m always on the road.”

This limited edition camera is designed with an eye-catching ‘synthetic python’ snakeskin covering, made from premium-quality vegan leather which looks straight out of the rockstar’s wardrobe. Kravitz was made aware of this synthetic material by his close friend, fashion designer and animal rights activist Stella McCartney, who uses it for many of her own creations. The matching carrying strap made of woven fabric is coated with the same vegan leather as the camera. The camera’s monochrom body is luxuriously retro in special sepia brown paint, and the hotshoe, thumb wheel, shutter and soft-release buttons are made from untreated brass, which will allow a stylish vintage look to develop over time.

Two state-of-the-art lenses are included, both finished in sepia brown; a Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH, and an APO-Summicron-M 75mm f/2 ASPH. In a departure from the standard production model, the Summicron-M 28mm f/2 features a built-in extendable lens hood to match the design of its 75mm counterpart.

This camera demands five-star accommodation; a smart brown leather-like ‘Drifter Traveller’ bag, two pouches and cases for both lenses are included, so your kit is always protected.

Lenny Kravitz was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1964 to an Afro-American mother and a Ukrainian-Jewish father. He is not only a world-famous musician, songwriter, producer and actor but also an accomplished photographer. As a musician, Kravitz is a multi-instrumentalist who uses analogue recording technology to underline the retro-character of his songs. As a visual artist, he has enjoyed success with his design studio, Kravitz Design, and has also become an accomplished photographer publishing ‘Flash’, a book of his black-and-white photographs in 2015. “I love the quality of the Leica’s monochrom system’ says Kravitz, “it’s exquisite. I tend to see things in black-and-white. It looks more real to me, and timeless.”

This is the second time Lenny and his design team have collaborated with Leica on a limited-edition masterpiece. In 2015, he was inspired by the life of his father, a Vietnam War reporter and TV news producer, to create the ‘Correspondent’, a vintage-look Leica M-P. This time, Lenny has looked within himself and authored a design which reflects the lifestyle of a cosmopolitan artist and travelling musician stopping to capture his or her unique experiences.

With production limited to 125 units globally, the Leica M Monochrom ‘Drifter’ is incredibly exclusive and highly collectable; RRP is £20,500.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica launches limited edition versions of three classic M lenses

09 Feb

Limited edition versions of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm F2 ASPH, Summaron-M 28 mm F5.6 and Summilux-M 28 mm F1.4 ASPH lenses have been announced for the Leica M rangerfinder series, with alternative finishes, red markings and different materials setting them out from the normal production versions.

Each of the limited editions has its distance or aperture markings picked out in red paint, and each comes in a different paint or finish to the standard models.

The lens with the most unique features is the APO-Summicron-M 50 mm F2 which comes in black chrome, and substitutes the regular focusing ring for a ‘scalloped’ version that the company says echoes the design of the 1956 model. There is a lot of brass too, with the components of the barrel made in brass, as is the lens hood and the lens cap.

The Summaron-M 28 mm F5.6 will come in a black matt paint that’s especially hard wearing, according to Leica, making it as tough as the black chrome finishes. The Summilux-M 28 mm F1.4 will come in a silver anodized finish.

Each of the lenses will be technically identical to the standard production models, just with these cosmetic differences. There will only be 700 of the 50mm lens, 500 of the 28mm F5.6 and 300 of the 28mm F1.4 – and all will be available by the end of the month.
For more information see the Leica website.

Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm F2 – $ 9,595

Leica Summaron-M 28 mm F5.6 – $ 2,995

Leica Summilux- M 28 mm F1.4 – $ 6,995

Press release:

Leica Camera AG presents three new design options in the Leica M-Lens portfolio.

Leica Camera AG presents new design versions of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm F2 ASPH., Leica Summaron-M 28 mm F5.6 and Leica Summilux- M 28 mm F1.4 ASPH. lenses for the Leica M-System. The special series of the three lenses are distinguished by unique design highlights and are being offered in a limited number of examples. The performance and technical specifications of the lenses are otherwise identical to those of the serial production products.

The new series of lenses includes a black chrome version of the APO-Summicron-M 50 mm F2 ASPH. standard lens. In comparison to the serial production lens, this design alternative features a characteristically scalloped focusing ring that recalls the appearance of the Summicron 50 mm F2 (II) from 1956. The components of the barrel of this special series are machined from brass. The engravings for the focal length and the distances in feet are picked out in red. The lens is supplied complete with a classic, round brass lens hood engraved with ‘Made in Germany’ and a lens cap turned from solid brass. The edition of the lens in this design version is strictly limited to 700 examples. The APO-Summicron-M 50 mm F2 ASPH. in black chrome is available from 21 February.

The second special series presents a version of the Leica Summaron-M 28 mm F5.6 in matt black paint finish, a lens from the classic line-up of Leica M-Lenses. The Summaron-M is modelled on a screw mount lens produced at the Leitz factory in Wetzlar from 1955 to 1963. With a length of less than 2 centimetres, this extremely compact wide-angle lens is the smallest lens of the M-System lens portfolio. The special paint used for this special series is particularly resistant to wear and lends the lens an appearance almost identical to that of the classic black chrome finishes.

A further feature of the new lens is the engraving of the aperture scale visible from the front, with numbers now picked out in red. This edition of the Leica Summaron-M 28 mm F5.6 in matt black paint is limited to 500 examples for the global market. The lenses will be on sale from 28 February.

The third design option, the Summilux-M 28 mm F1.4 ASPH. in a silver anodised version, offers owners of Leica M-Cameras in silver a further high-performance lens that matches the finish of their cameras. This fast wide-angle lens is an ideal companion for reportage photography and delivers impressive imaging performance in all lighting situations. The lens with the alternative finish will be on sale from 28 February in a limited edition of 300 examples.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica releases limited ‘Safari’ edition M10-P camera, Summicron-M 50mm F2 lens

01 Feb

Leica has announced the launch of a limited edition Leica M10-P Edition ‘Safari’ camera and accompanying Summicron-M 50mm F2 Edition ‘Safari’ lens.

The launch of the limited edition pieces continues Leica’s tradition of olive green camera releases. In Leica’s own words, ‘Leica cameras with the olive green enamel finish were originally designed and created for hard-wearing military use, as they were seen as robust and reliable tools that consistently delivered under extreme conditions.’

The Leica M10-P Edition ‘Safari’ is identical to its less colorful counterpart in terms of specs and includes a full-grain cowhide leather carrying strap as well as a matching leather case for memory cards and credit cards, both of which were designed to ‘complement the unique aesthetic of the limited edition camera.’

The Leica Summicron-M 50mm F2 Edition ‘Safari’ lens is the first time a Leica M lens will be available in the olive green finish. Aside from the new color, the limited edition lens features a distance scale and focal length engravings that are hand-filled with red paint to ‘contrast to the other bright white engravings on the lens.’ Like the camera, this lens is identical to its black and silver counterparts.

Interestingly, the camera and lens are being sold separately with no option of getting them together as a kit. Leica says the M10-P Edition ‘Safari’ camera body is available today for $ 8,450 in a limited run of 1,500 units while the matching lens will be available on February 15, 2019 for $ 2,750 in a run of just 500 units. Both the camera body and lens are available for pre-order at B&H.

Leica Camera Continues a Longstanding Tradition with the Leica M10-P and Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 “Safari” Limited Editions

The first-ever release of a Leica M-Lens in the olive green coloring accompanies the fifth iteration of “Safari” camera offerings

January 31, 2019 – The launch of the limited Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” camera and Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” lens reopens a beloved chapter in Leica Camera’s ongoing tradition of special olive green camera releases. Dating back nearly 60 years, the eye-catching finish has recurred throughout the brand’s rich history, making each rare piece highly sought after among Leica collectors and enthusiasts alike. Leica carries forth this tradition with the new limited edition camera body and limited edition lens in the olive green enamel finish, which when paired together, create the perfect symbiosis of functionality, design and history.

Leica cameras with the olive green enamel finish were originally designed and created for hard-wearing military use, as they were seen as robust and reliable tools that consistently delivered under extreme conditions. The rugged aesthetic of the Leica M1 “Olive” for the German armed forces, made in 1960, proved to be a great success from its onset. The subsequent olive green Leica M3 and M4 cameras were also created exclusively for the rigors of military use in the field, however, in response to rising popularity and increasing demand, in 1977 the olive green Leica R3 “Safari” camera became the first of its ilk to be created for sale to the general public. As popularity grew and the legacy carried on over the years, Leica Camera launched the M6 TTL “Safari” in 2000, the M8.2 “Safari” in 2008 and, most recently in 2015, the M-P (Typ 240) “Safari.” Each piece, a significant highlight in Leica’s historic lineage and timeline of milestones.

Today, Leica continues the tradition of these unique and storied cameras with the Leica M10-P Edition “Safari”, a modern take on the olive green finish, at its core containing the same performance and technical capabilities of the standard Leica M10-P and its industry-leading quiet mechanical shutter. The limited edition camera is accompanied by a leather carrying strap as well as a matching leather case for SD memory cards and credit cards. Both accessories are crafted from brandy-colored, genuine full-grain cowhide and complement the unique aesthetic of the limited edition camera, of which there are only 1,500 units available worldwide.

For the first time in Leica’s history, a Leica M-Lens will be available in the legendary olive green finish. The matching Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” will be offered separately from the camera, with only 500 units being made available. In addition to the special enamel finish, the Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” is distinguished by its distance scale and focal length engravings, which are precisely engraved and carefully hand-filled in red paint – in contrast to the other bright white engravings on the lens. The technical specifications and optical performance are identical to those of the well-regarded production model, though the artful coloring and compact design of this high-performance standard lens makes it an attractive addition to any photographer’s set of Leica M equipment.

Every bit of visible metal components of the Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” and the Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” lens are crafted from solid brass. The premium enamel finish in olive green makes the camera and lens resistant to finger marks and scratches, providing enduring protection against external elements such as solvents, chemicals and UV light to ensure a long-lasting look that can stand the test of time and transcend generations, just as its forebears before it.

The Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” camera body is available for sale today for $ 8,450. The Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 Edition “Safari” premium lens will be available starting February 15th for $ 2,750. Both camera and lens are sold separately at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus announces limited edition OM-D E-M1 Mark II camera to celebrate 100th anniversary

24 Jan

In addition to a barrage of other products launched earlier today, Olympus has also unveiled a limited edition Silver OM-D E-M1 Mark II to commemorate Olympus’ 100th anniversary.

As tends to be the case with many limited edition cameras, nothing changes on the inside. This special edition OM-D E-M1 Mark II still features the same 20.4-megapixel MOS sensor with Olympus’ TruePic VIII image processor to power it all. Also identical to the standard version is the 5-axis image stabilization.

The special edition OM-D E-M1 Mark II will be limited to only 2,000 units worldwide and is set to ship in February 2019 for $ 1.699.99 USD and $ 1,999.99 CAD.

OLYMPUS ANNOUNCES LIMITED EDITION

OM-D® E-M1 MARK II SILVER

2,000 Units Available Worldwide in Commemoration of Olympus’ 100th Anniversary

CENTER VALLEY, PA., January 24, 2019 – Olympus is pleased to announce a special edition of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, the OM-D E-M1 Mark II Silver. This limited edition model, of which only 2,000 units will be available worldwide, will be available at the end of February 2019, in commemoration of Olympus’ 100th anniversary.

From Olympus President Hiroyuki Sasa:
We are sincerely grateful to all customers and other stakeholders who have supported Olympus since its founding 100 years ago. Being true to our purpose of “making people’s lives healthier, safer, and more fulfilling,” we shall continue to contribute to photographic culture and deliver the joy of capturing and expressing special moments to photography lovers worldwide.

TruePic VIII Image Processor and 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features the TruePic VIII Image Processor, which makes it possible to capture images with minimal noise while retaining details. Furthermore, the 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS sensor with 121 points of cross-type on-chip phase detection improves resolution without the need for a low-pass filter. This synergy maintains the full 20.4 Megapixel image while offering up to 18 fps high-speed sequential shooting performance in AF/AE tracking. It also enhances gradation through pixel characteristic improvement for a wide dynamic range that rivals that of cameras with larger sized APS-C sensors. Pro Capture Mode is also included and allows lag-free shooting of split-second moments as full resolution images, attaining both high-speed and excellent image quality.

In-Body 5-Axis Image Stabilization
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is equipped with built-in 5-Axis Image Stabilization to compensate for camera shake. Through an optimized correction algorithm, this model boasts 5.5 shutter speed steps of compensation performance. Furthermore, when combined with an M.Zuiko lens containing in-lens image stabilization2, 5-Axis Sync IS provides up to 6.5 shutter speed steps of compensation performance for hand-held shooting capabilities.

A Compact, Lightweight, Durable System Offering Unparalleled Reliability
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features sealing throughout the camera for a highly reliable dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (14°F / -10°C) design so that the camera performs even in the harshest outdoor conditions, such as snow or rain.

Premium Silver Body
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a dependable camera that meets the needs of the professional photographer and is capable of shooting in the harshest of environments. The black body embraces functional beauty while the new silver body provides a classic, quality camera look.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica introduces limited edition Zagato M10 – and two watches

16 Jun

Leica has announced a 250-piece limited edition M10 kit, designed by custom luxury car manufacturer Zagato. The M10 ‘Edition Zagato’ will come with a special Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 lens that will feature a new integrated lens hood, and the body will feature a new design to incorporate a handgrip on the right side.

Technically the same as the production M10 bodies, the Zagato edition will use aluminum for its top deck, base plate, body shell and the control dials and knobs, as this is the material Zagato uses for its cars. The new body shell will make the camera 70g lighter than a stock M10, according to the company. A series of ribbed grooves will replace the usual leather around the body and the new handgrip will make the body easier to hold.

The Leica M10 ‘Edition Zagato’ will retail for £18,000 from selected Leica stores.

At the same time Leica has introduced a pair of mechanical watches made in a new part of the company’s factory in Wetzlar. The Leica L1 and L2 watches will be manufactured in the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten next to the camera plant, and have been designed with glass that resembles the front of a lens. The watches use a stainless steel case, but in true Leica style a limited edition L2 will be available in rose gold.

No price has been announced yet, but the watches are expected to go on sale this autumn. For more information see the Leica website.

Press releases

The fine arts of German craftsmanship meet Italian Design: Leica Camera AG presents the new, strictly limited Leica M10 ‘Edition Zagato’.

Wetzlar, 15 June 2018. With the Leica M10 ‘Edition Zagato’, Leica Camera AG presents a timelessly beautiful special edition that unites the best of German craftsmanship and Italian design. Comprising a camera and a Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. lens, the set takes its name from Dr Andrea Zagato, owner of the design house and automotive styling specialists of the same name, who personally designed the limited edition, restricted to 250 pieces worldwide. This collaboration is now the second special edition created between the two long-established companies – 2015 saw the launch of a limited series of binoculars with a strikingly elegant design, the Leica Ultravid 8×32 ‘Edition Zagato’.

Founded a century ago, Zagato has been the creator of the most beautiful coachbuilt bodies in the history of automobile construction. The quintessential Italian brand is particularly well known for its innovative use of aluminium in automobile design and construction. Today, the company continues to create special, and traditionally strictly limited, editions of cars with unique styling in Milan, where the story of success began with the brand’s founder Ugo Zagato in 1919.

Both Leica and Zagato uphold a strong passion for aesthetics and precision in many respects. Both have intrinsic links, as well, to photography: “Photography plays an

essential role in our work. Without the possibilities offered by photography, we would never have had the invaluable pictures to be able to reconstruct vehicle models, and would not be able to present our work from the last decades in such an impressive way” emphasises owner Dr Andrea Zagato, who, together with his wife and Art Director, Marella Rivolta-Zagato, now heads the family company in its third generation.

The ‘Edition Zagato’ is the first special edition of the Leica M10 camera and offers extraordinary visual and tactile highlights. The top deck, the baseplate, the outer casing and the control elements of the camera are all manufactured from aluminium. This makes it 70g lighter than its serial production counterpart. Instead of the usual leather trim, the bodyshell of the camera is finished with fine grooves, which, together with details like the red shutter release button, lend the camera its unique look and feel. The integrated handgrip at the left of the body visually distinguishes the special edition from the serial production model of the M10 and makes it a delight to hold and handle. The M10 ‘Edition Zagato’ is the first Leica camera to have its own special serial number engraved on an aluminium badge on the base of the camera that is revealed only when the baseplate is opened.

The Leica Summilux-M 35mm F1.4 ASPH. lens in the special edition set has an integrated lens hood that can be pulled out and locked in place in a single motion – a new feature for a 35mm lens that simplifies its handling. The design of the focusing aid on the lens pays homage to a typical styling signature of Zagato automobile design, the double-bubble roofline of many Zagato models. The unmistakeable ‘Zagato’ logotype on the lens ring also indicates the role of the prominent design partner in this collaboration. In all other aspects, the technical specifications of the camera and lens in the Leica M10 ‘Edition Zagato’ set are identical to those of its serial production counterpart.

In addition to the camera and lens, the set also includes a carrying strap in red full- grain leather embossed with the Zagato logotype. This M-Camera is the first to feature rectangular strap lugs in the same design as those of the Zagato binoculars. The certificate of authenticity graces the packaging of the set in the form of an aluminium plate with an engraved serial number.

The Leica M10 ‘Edition Zagato’ is available from 15th June 2018 in selected Leica Stores at a RRP of $ 21,600 / £18,000 (including UK VAT). Additionally, a few pieces of the Leica Ultravid 8×32 ‘Edition Zagato’ limited edition binoculars are still available. In addition to the binoculars and a case in Zagato design, the set includes a matching carrying strap and a leather wrist strap.

The publication of the second volume of the coffee-table book trilogy, ‘Leica and Zagato – Europe Collectibles’, coincides with the launch of the Leica M10 ‘Edition Zagato’. The fascinating pictures show 33 Zagato models from the entire history of the brand in evocative European settings.

Ernst Leitz Werkstätten: Opening of the manufacture and presentation of the Leica Watch

Wetzlar, 13 June 2018. With the inauguration of the third phase of the Leitz Park – Leica Camera AG’s headquarters complex in Wetzlar, Germany – the “Ernst Leitz Werkstätten” commences operation and establishes a completely new and exclusive product line in the Leica Camera AG portfolio: mechanically highly complex and sophisticated watches made in small series. The Ernst Leitz Werkstätten is housed on the latest phase of Leitz Park and offers a fascinating insight into the elaborate production of ‘Made in Germany’ watches through the manufacture’s viewing windows. The premises include an assembly workshop, a consulting studio and a store.

Two models – the LEICA L1 and the LEICA L2 – will initially be available for the launch of the Leica Watch. Both variants draw their design inspiration from the creativity and precision, the hallmarks, of the world-famous brand from Wetzlar. Both models were designed by Professor Achim Heine who has overseen the design of many Leica Camera products over the years and who has extensive knowledge of the company’s design principles. The Leica signature look can be found in the countless design elements and features of the watches: the elegance of the hands and indexes, the shape of the finely-detailed, stainless-steel case, the special fluting on the crown and the cambered shape of the glass which is reminiscent of a camera lens.

Both models are operated by a mechanical movement with manual winding which has been newly developed and can be viewed through the glass case back made of robust sapphire crystal. For Leica, the ‘Made in Germany’ aspect is particularly important, hence the collaboration with Lehmann Präzision GmbH. The development, design and a large proportion of the components come from the manufacture situated in Germanys’ Black Forest and help the watches to achieve a very distinct vertical range of manufacture.

Design and technology complement each other perfectly in Leica watches: both the front glass and the back case cover are made of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, with the front being anti-reflective on both sides, and each model has the patented push-piece crown with a corresponding status display on the dial. The combination with the zero setting of the second hand is another special feature – the crown is therefore not only aesthetically appealing, but also adds a useful function to the watches.

The design, which is reduced to the essentials and coupled with uncompromisingly high quality, make the LEICA L1 and LEICA L2 not only a functional instrument, but also a real statement piece.

Dr Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and majority shareholder of Leica Camera AG, on the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten: “I am very happy that this long- term project can now be finally presented. I believe that together with our partners we have succeeded in developing a ‘Made in Germany’ watch that is worthy of the name Leica and which represents the values of our premium brand extremely well!”.

Markus Lehmann, Managing Director of Lehmann Präzision GmbH, on the cooperation with Leica Camera: ‘We built precision machines for Leica years ago, independently of this project. It has of course been very interesting to work with

Leica in these two very different areas, although the watch project was and is a project very close to my heart. We knew in the run-up to this project that this cooperation will be fruitful, which helped to intensify our partnership significantly.’

The LEICA L1 and the LEICA L2 will be available in selected Leica Stores including the Leica Store Mayfair as well as at watch dealers worldwide from autumn 2018. The L2 model will also be available in a version with an 18 karat rose gold case. To mark the occasion of the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten commencing operation, limited special models of the two stainless steel versions with a red dial will be released.

About the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten
The Ernst Leitz Werkstätten, which derive their name from the founder of the Leitz Werke that opened in 1869, namely Ernst Leitz I, specialise in the design and manufacture of luxury products and are located in the newest part of the Leitz Park in Wetzlar, State of Hesse, Germany. As an independent division of Leica Camera AG, they were founded by Dr Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board and majority shareholder of Leica Camera AG. Visitors can gain an insight into the work of the Ernst Leitz Werkstätten thanks to their large viewing windows. More information is available at www.ernst-leitz-werkstaetten.com.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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8×10 is an app for selling limited edition framed prints on Instagram

11 May
8×10 / @HULLOITSLYDIA

If you are a photographer, painter, illustrator or other type of artist with a large number of followers on Instagram, there is now a new way of monetizing that following. The new 8×10 app lets you sell framed limited-edition fine-art prints of your artwork.

You’ll have to select the photos you want to offer as prints and define the terms, including the number of prints the sale will be limited to, duration of the sale and of course the price. You can also add a signature to your images and opt to donate proceeds to a charity.

Next, the sale is posted to Instagram and your followers are alerted. They can access the sale page through your Instagram post and purchase if they like what they see. In the back-end, the 8×10 app offers a sales-tracker so you can keep up with your orders, but printing and global fulfillment are both organized by 8×10 to keep the process as simple as possible.

When a print is sold, 8×10 users receive their profit within the next 14 days, once the buyer’s payment clears. Using the app and creating an offer is free, 8×10 only takes a cut of your profits if a sale is made. No specific rate is given, but based on the intro video and screenshots provided through the app store, the app’s cut seems to vary in percentage depending on how much you choose to charge per print.

This quick intro video gives you a good overview of how 8×10 works:

This makes the app an interesting tool for photographers and artists who’d like to test demand for prints of their work, without making any major investment in a print run or dealing with setting up fulfillment. It does genuinely sound like an easy way to dip your toe into the print selling waters.

To find out more or try the 8×10 app for yourself, head over to the app’s website or download it from the Apple App Store.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica unveils limited edition Leica Q ‘Snow’ inspired by an Olympic snowboarder

13 Feb

A new, white version of the Leica Q full-frame compact camera has been announced that was inspired by Olympic snowboarder and photographer Iouri Podladtchikov. The ‘Snow’ edition will be limited to only 300 units worldwide, and will cost $ 5,395/£4300.

As with most Leica special editions, on the inside, this camera will be exactly the same as the standard Q. What differentiates it is the special white leather trim and anodized silver top plate, base plate and control dials.

A white leather case and strap complete the ‘Snow’ theme:

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Speaking about the special edition camera, Podladtchikov says the white finish doesn’t only reflect the snow he is so closely associated with:

‘White, for me, also means ‘carte blanche’ – it’s up to you. It’s time to get creative’.

The Swiss Olympic gold medalist and world champion is also a keen photographer, and intends to open his own photographic studio. He was due to compete in the current Winter Olympics in Korea, but had to pull out after sustaining an injury at the 2018 X Games.

The Leica Q ‘Snow’ will be available starting in March. For more information, read the full press release below, or visit the Leica website.

Press Release

Leica Q ‘Snow’ by Iouri Podladtchikov

The Swiss Olympic gold medallist and dedicated Leica photographer designs a special edition of the iconic Leica Q

Wetzlar, 12 February 2018 – Leica Camera AG presents a new version of its high- performance compact camera with full-frame sensor and fast prime lens: the Leica Q ‘Snow’ by Iouri Podladtchikov. This limited edition has been created in collaboration with Swiss Olympic gold medallist, World Champion snowboarder (halfpipe) Iouri Podladtchikov, whose own ideas inspired the design of the camera.

The Leica Q ‘Snow’ by Iouri Podladtchikov is based on the coloured version of the Leica Q with a silver anodised top deck and baseplate and controls on the top deck in silver. The design concept also features a new accessory shoe cover made from aluminium. The highlights of the special edition include the pure white trim in premium real leather that gives it its name. The edition is also strictly limited to only 300 pieces for the worldwide market, each of which bears a special serial number.

In the words of the dedicated Leica photographer: “As a brand ambassador, it’s a fascinating feeling to have inspired a special edition of a camera, but I also see it as an enormous responsibility”. Interestingly, his choice of the colour white doesn’t just relate to snow – perhaps the obvious choice for a snowboarder: “White, for me, also means ‘carte blanche’ – it’s up to you. It’s time to get creative” explains, Iouri Podladtchikov, who has already published two books of his photography and will soon be opening his own studio.

The Leica Q ‘Snow’ by Iouri Podladtchikov is presented as a set complete with a case in soft white leather and a colour-matched carrying strap and will be available from March 2018 for £4,300 (including VAT).

The technical specifications of the Leica Q ‘Snow’ by Iouri Podladtchikov are identical to those of standard model of the Leica Q. Thanks to its particularly fast Leica Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens, the camera is perfect for photography in low light, for street photography, architecture and landscapes. To allow for reliable control of subject composition, the Leica Q also features an integrated viewfinder with a resolution of 3.68 MP. Even the finest details of every exposure are displayed without any perceptible lag as soon as the camera is brought up to the user’s eye.

All functions of the camera are clearly laid out and logically placed to guarantee perfect ergonomics. Its clear and logical menu concept provides rapid access to all essential functions and enables users to programme personalised settings.

The Leica Q also delivers video recordings in full-HD quality. Depending on the scene and subject, users can choose between 30 and 60 full frames per second for video recording in MP4 format. The camera also features an integrated Wi-Fi module for wireless transmission of still pictures and video and remote control by WLAN from a smartphone or a tablet with the Leica Q App.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Lomography celebrates 25th anniversary with three limited edition cameras

30 Jan

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, Lomography has launched limited edition versions of three popular Lomo cameras, including the one model that started it all: The Lomo LC-A+.

In addition to Lomography’s original 35mm with zone-focus and auto exposure, limited versions of the LC-A 120 medium format camera and the LC-Wide 35mm camera with 17mm wide-angle lens are also available. All three cameras are clad in brown leather and come with Lomography’s motto embossed on the rear:

No Rules, Happy Mistakes, Analogue Love

For the LC-A+ and LC-Wide there is also a matching brown leather camera case as part of this limited edition.

All items can be ordered now in the Lomography shop, with shipping for the US and Canada planned for January 29th. The LC-A+ is $ 300, the LC-Wide will set you back $ 440, and the medium format LC-120 requires an investment of $ 480. The limited edition case by itself is available for $ 80.

To learn more, visit the Lomography website or go straight to the Lomography shop.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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A happy ending: Police recover stolen limited edition Leica from The Camera Store robbery

27 Dec
Shattered glass from the break-in. Photo: The Camera Store

You could look at the story of the recent robbery at beloved Calgary camera shop The Camera Store as a play in three acts. Act 1: the store is robbed of over $ 27,000 USD worth of high-end camera equipment. Act 2: Local and worldwide media attention helps police nab two suspects and recover most of the gear in just 48 hours.

And now, Act 3: The final piece of stolen equipment—a rare, limited edition Leica M-P Edition Safari—is returned to the shop, making this particular theft a complete failure.

Act 3 took place just before Christmas, when the Calgary police executed a search warrant—ostensibly at the home of one of the two suspects arrested previously, 60-year-old Tan Xuan Hung Bui and 36-year-old Justin Ross—where they found the stolen Leica M-P Edition Safari worth $ 13,000 CAD (~$ 10,250 USD).

Posing with the recovered Leica M-P Edition Safari Photo: The Camera Store

The Camera Store announced the recovery on its blog at the same time as the news broke in The Calgary Herald. And, as promised, the tipster who alerted the police to the sketchy online gear sale that led to the two suspects’ arrest will receive a $ 5,000 CAD (~$ 3,800 USD) shopping spree at The Camera Store as a token of thanks.

According to The Calgary Sun, the ‘winner’ is “a gentleman from Edmonton.”

But this happy story is not without its one gray cloud. That rare Leica M-P, a collectors item, was scuffed somewhere between its theft from and return to The Camera Store. Then again, given the amount of attention this particular story has gotten, maybe that’ll make the camera even MORE valuable.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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