Leica is really firing on all cylinders this show. The new M is probably the biggest hit of the show. The S camera has some really solid updates and three new S lenses were introduced. But, these weren’t the only introductions from Leica. There is plenty of compact camera news, too. You, know, for when you don’t want to carry your full kit and just want something to take out to dinner with a group of friends.
A la carte X2
Leica introduced the X2 back in May at their Das Wesentliche event in Berlin alongside the M Monochrom (see my full M Monochrom review ). The camera was a significant update to the X1 and has been extremely well received (see my full X2 review). Personally, I use it as my everyday camera. All my photos of various Leica staff members were shot with the X2. Unfortunately, it doesn’t focus as close as I’d like sometimes, so I used a D-Lux 5 for all my product close-ups.
Obviously, with the camera just introduced a few months ago, the X2 isn’t due for any major updates. Instead, the X2 is getting some special style treatment for Photokina. First up is the Paul Smith Edition X2. Limited to 1500 pieces and designed by British fashion designer Paul Smith, this X2 is quite boldly styled. With an orange top plate, lime green bottom plate and British racing green leather in between, the look isn’t for everyone, but it is unmistakable for sure. Combined with a handsome tan leather half case, I’m sure this limited edition, being sold only through Leica Stores and Boutiques, will go very quickly.
Paul Smith Edition Leica X2
Paul Smith Edition Leica X2
Paul Smith Edition Leica X2 with half case, strap and lens cloth
Also, only available from Leica Stores and Boutiques is the a la carte X2. Not limited to any quantities, the new X2 a la carte program lets would-be X2 owners customized a camera to their tastes. With ten different leather coverings ranging from trendy apple green to classic cognac, three metal finishes (silver, black and titanium), along with matching straps and half cases, there are literally thousands of combinations.
Different leather options
Silver, titanium and black
And, if a lemon yellow and black camera isn’t unique enough for your tastes, you can also get custom engraving in three different spots on the camera’s top plate.
Engraving is available on the rear, the flash or the top
Engraving is available on the rear, the flash or the top
Camera leather, straps and half cases don’t need to match, either. Perhaps it is the influence of the Paul Smith, but the idea of a totally mismatched combo actually seems pretty cool. I don’t actually see the a la carte program as just for collectors. I legitimately think it’s a great idea. As I played with a few different combinations, I looked over at my black X2, looking so…. Not as cool. So, if you’re willing to wait 4-6 weeks and fork over a few hundred dollars more, an a la carte might be for you.
Mixing up is allowed: Titanium finish camera with Capri blue leather, Apple green half case and Lemon yellow strap
While the X2 wasn’t new, Leica did show two new compact digital cameras, the D-Lux 6 and V-Lux 4. The D-Lux 6 got a hefty update from the extraordinarily popular D-Lux 5. Now, with an f/1.4-2.3 lens covering an equivalent range of 24-90mm, a new 10MP CMOS sensor with improved low light performance, the ability to shoot full 1080p HD video, and a high resolution 920K pixel 3” LCD, the D-Lux 6 should come as a welcome upgrade and a very capable all-rounder. The camera will also take the new 1.4MP EVF3 in its hot shoe and has an honest-to-goodness aperture ring on the lens. Priced at $799, the camera should be available starting in November.
New 3″ 920K pixel LCD with virtual horizon and exposure info displayed
An aperture ring where it belongs
New 1.4MP EVF3
New leather half case for D-Lux 6
The V-Lux 4 got some similar updates. Boasting an unbelievable 25-600mm equivalent lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the entire range, a new low-noise 12MP CMOS sensor, a super high res 1.3MP built-in EVF and continuous shooting up to 12 fps, the V-Lux 4 can handle everything from the kids’ soccer game to shooting video at the holidays. The V-Lux 4 should also start shipping in November with a price of $899.
Leica V-Lux 4 with 25-600mm (equiv) f/2.8 lens with lens shade attached (no, it's not that big in real life)
Nice grip for steady long tele shots and video
Playing with both cameras at Photokina, I could immediately feel how quick, responsive and extremely simple they were to use. Even though I use an S2 as my main camera, with plenty of M shooting for more spontaneous outings, I still find a lot of use for the D-Lux and V-Lux cameras. At the show, both my D-Lux 5 and V-Lux 3 served me well. All the product shots, including the ones in this article, were shot with the D-Lux 5 and all the videos were taken with the V-Lux 3.
I often take the V-Lux to my daughter’s school activities like cheerleading where I am in the stands and she is on the football field. Here a 600mm lens and image stabilization really help. And, with the new fast f/2.8 lens on the V-Lux 4, I will certainly be upgrading. Night shooting just got that much easier. Likewise, with the D-Lux 6, maximum aperture is now bumped to f/1.4, really expanding the possibilities for this small, but mighty performer.
The Leica D-Lux 6 and V-Lux 4 are both available for pre-order at Leica Store Miami, either online or by calling 305-921-4433.
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