To have a good time seven a long time of its iconic Leica M digicam system, Leica is releasing a restricted version of the system at a whopping worth.
The brand new Leica M Version 70 has been introduced by the model and can go on sale for a critically hefty (even by Leica requirements) $23,000, or extra exactly, $22,995 from choose Leica shops.
This line of Leica cameras first went on sale approach again in 1954 with the Leica M3 and rapidly turned extraordinarily widespread as the perfect cameras for avenue photographers and photojournalists of all stripes. One of many key parts that made the cameras so profitable was their distinctive rangefinder design and utilitarian mechanical construct.
The upcoming Leica M Version 70 amalgamates all of those core parts from 70 years of M cameras to turn out to be a super-premium, “distinctive collector’s merchandise”.
For those who can dig up the money to cowl its reasonably outrageous price ticket, you may take some satisfaction in realizing that you simply’ll be one among solely 250 individuals in complete who will get their palms on one.
These few editions of the particular digicam launch will all be individually numbered and the Version 70 digicam’s physique can be constructed across the basic M3 design from 1954, however with parts from the newer and likewise iconic Leica M-A digicam.
Externally, the digicam will characteristic a platinum-plated metallic physique in a nod to its 70-year “platinum” jubilee anniversary and its total look can be very firmly retro in all regards.
In accordance with Leica, “The mixture of timeless design and tried-and-tested craftsmanship, and splendid platinum coating makes the version set a coveted merchandise for discerning photographers and collectors,”
That every one sounds fantastic, but it surely’s exhausting to consider it accommodates sufficient craftsmanship (or platinum coating) to justify its worth in any practical sense.
Alternatively, I’ve little doubt that the M Version 70 will get much more costly on the resale market after its launch. So you would in all probability have a look at the digicam as an funding merchandise as an alternative of a mere excuse to burn $23,000.
Specs-wise, the Leica M Version 70 is a totally analog digicam and options no rear LCD display screen, no sensor, and no digital viewfinder. Have been you anticipating any completely different?
As an alternative, its again accommodates simply an ISO selector dial and the digicam additionally comes geared up with a Leicavit M quick winder for straightforward use in fast-paced photographic settings. Certainly the entire level of the digicam is absolutely old style simplicity, however with a platinum coating and a collector’s version quantity.
To spherical issues off with this distinctive launch, the digicam comes with a particular version Leica APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH lens that’s additionally platinum coated and constructed from a basic Leica lens design that’s broadly thought of to be among the finest 50mm optics available on the market.
Leica can be together with a collector’s version platinum movie canister that truly features a roll of black and white movie.
Leica will make the Lecia M Version 70 obtainable by means of choose Leica shops in 2025, supplying you with at the very least a few months to avoid wasting up.
Pictures credit score: Leica Digital camera