Today, Leica has announced it will be offering the M11 digital rangefinder and re-issue Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH in a stunning glossy black paint finish. Neither the camera nor the lens is a limited edition or special release, but rather another finish option going into standard production. Glossy black paint finish has always been a crowd pleaser, with some cameras like the M10-R Black Paint and M9-P Black Paint achieving cult status.
The Leica M11 Glossy Black Paint swaps out the now standard aluminum top plate for classic brass, meaning it will patina with use over time, eventually revealing the bare golden metal from under the glossy painted finish. Vintage-inspired crosshatch knurling on the power switch, shutter speed dial, rear thumbwheel and ISO control adds some understated flair, as does the polished silver chrome shutter release. And while the camera does bear some of the hallmark designs of the M11-P, like the omission of the red Leica dot on front and classic script engraving on the top plate, the internals are based on the M11, not the M11-P.
Key differences between the M11 and M11-P are 64GB of internal storage rather than 256GB, Gorilla Glass on the LCD instead of Sapphire, a standard viewfinder window versus the recently launched dark chrome, and no hardware encryption chip for Content Credentials. Otherwise, imaging prowess is identical, with the M11 Glossy Black packing the same class-leading 60 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and latest Maestro IV image processor.
The venerable Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH gets the glossy black paint finish as well. When Leica reissued the iconic lens from 1966 two years ago, the lens was offered in a limited silver chrome over brass edition, as well as the standard black anodized finish over aluminum that is currently available. To honor the uniqueness of that 100-piece commemorative release, as well as offer lighter weight for everyday photography, the new glossy black version features aluminum construction, not brass. And while it may lack the heft of brass, the finish still looks amazing, especially with the feet scale in red instead of the standard orange.
Pricing and Availability
Press Release
Leica presents the M11 and Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 ASPH. in a glossy black edition
These editions of the rangefinder camera and extraordinary prime lens encapsulate iconic Leica design with their coveted paint finish.
Leica Camera AG presents its latest M series model and a renowned M-Lens with an elegant finish: the Leica M11 glossy black and the Leica Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 ASPH. glossy black. These designs celebrate the timeless aesthetic and remarkably intricate craftsmanship that have set Leica apart for decades. The M-System is synonymous with the Leica brand like nothing else. Deeply intertwined with the long-established company’s heritage, rangefinder cameras tell a revolutionary story that began in 1954 with the Leica M3. Unique and exclusive design variants have existed for almost as long as the M-Camera itself. This variant’s glossy black paint finish is the purest and strongest expression of the classic Leica look. Over the years, frequent use of the camera makes its mark on the finish, partly exposing the brass that lies beneath. Little by little, this creates a distinctive patina that tells its very own story. 1962 saw the first appearance of the Leica M3 with this elegant finish. It met with great enthusiasm.
The new edition of the Leica M11 combines the series model’s cutting-edge technology with classic design elements. Accordingly, the camera’s brass top plate, dials and on/off switch feature a glossy black paint finish. Additional elegant touches include the “Leica” engraved in a seamless stroke on the top plate and the glossy silver chromed shutter button, whose design recalls the historic M-Camera. Careful attention to detail is also reflected in the intricate cross knurling on the time and ISO dials. Finally, the design consciously forgoes the red Leica dot, underlining the M-Camera’s cultivated subtlety — cherished by photographers around the world.
Leica Camera AG is introducing a glossy black edition of the Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 ASPH. lens at the same time. This makes the classic lens, which is available separately, a perfect visual match for the M-Camera with its glossy black paint finish. This design variant of the lens is based on the series model, which became famous for its high image quality and light intensity, as well as its unmistakable bokeh. The colour variant features a round lens hood, front and rear lens caps with a glossy black paint finish, and a red “feet” scale.
Three premium M accessories crafted from high-quality cowhide leather are getting a stylish new colour option. From 21st November, the adjustable carrying strap, the M11 protector and the M-System case will be available in taupe.
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