DESIGN /
DIGITAL
December 19, 2014
Leica | New Models "Leica X" and "Leica V-LUX" Released
Leica
Leica Camera AG announced its largest number of new products ever at Photokina 2014.
New Models "Leica X" and "Leica V-LUX" Released
At Photokina 2014, which opened in Cologne, Germany, on Tuesday, September 16th, Leica Camera AG announced its largest number of new products since its founding. A domestic new product launch event was recently held, and the new "Leica X" from the premium compact digital camera "Leica X series," and the new "Leica V-LUX," which features a high-performance, large-aperture lens with excellent imaging capabilities in a compact body, are now available.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
The "Leica X" Achieves Overwhelmingly High Image Quality
Released on Saturday, October 4th, the "Leica X" is equipped with the newly developed prime lens "Leica Summilux f1.7/23mm ASPH." and an exceptionally large APS-C size image sensor for a compact digital camera in this class (16.5 megapixels total, 16.2 megapixels effective). It also features full HD video recording, making it versatile for a wider range of situations.
This combination of image sensor and lens delivers exceptional rendering, capturing fine details with natural color reproduction. The 35mm prime lens, ideal for reportage photography due to its versatility, has a very wide open aperture of F1.7, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects. Sharp, clear, and crisp images are produced from infinity down to a minimum focusing distance of 0.2m.
The "Leica X" condenses various elements required for serious photography, such as versatile shooting functions and intuitive, simple operation, into a body with Leica's signature design. It is available in two color variations: black, with matching leather for a sophisticated look, and silver, with brown leather exterior for an elegant feel.
The "Leica V-LUX": A Compact Digital Camera Versatile for Any Genre
Released on Wednesday, October 1st, the "Leica V-LUX" is equipped with the high-performance, large-aperture zoom lens "Leica DC Vario-Elmarit f2.8-4.0/9.1-146mm ASPH.," covering a zoom range equivalent to 25-400mm on a 35mm film camera. Without the need for cumbersome lens changes or carrying heavy interchangeable lenses, this single camera handles all shooting scenarios, from wide-angle to standard, telephoto, and even macro photography with a close-focusing distance of up to 3cm.
The lens has an aperture of F2.8 at the wide-angle end and F4 at the telephoto end, rendering distant subjects sharply. The 1.0-inch, 20.1-megapixel image sensor is large, allowing for bright and clear images with suppressed noise even in low-light conditions or when shooting at high ISO sensitivities. This combination of a large image sensor and a large-aperture lens greatly expands the possibilities for creative expression.
In terms of design, its compact size and extremely simple operation are appealing. The inclusion of a grip that enhances holdability makes it a pleasure to feel the substantial presence of a "Leica" when you hold it.
Leica Camera Japan
Tel. 03-5221-9501
http://www.leica-camera.co.jp