LEICA M - SYSTEM

themostadvancedgenerationever.
CONTENTS

Editorial 04

Leica Camera AG 06

LEICA REPORTAGE 10
Unknown Kyrgysztan. 12
Happy anniversary, Bishkek. 28
Country life – far from idyllic. 42
Feathered hunting aids. 52
Haggling, Kyrgyz-Style. 64
An ancient craft with a long tradition. 74
Home is where the yurt is. 86

LEICA M-SYSTEM 16

LEICA M 30

LEICA M-E 44

LEICA M MONOCHROM 54

LEICA M7/MP  66

LEICA À LA CARTE 72

M - SYSTEM LENSES 76

M - SYSTEM EXTRAS 102

M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA 120

LEICA CAMERAS AND SPORT OPTICS 132

 Dear friend of Leica,

Unlike any other camera, the Leica M embodies a uniquely individual approach to photography. It is and always has
been an exquisite instrument that enables you to experience a unique view of life. A Leica M gives photo­gr­ aphers
complete creative freedom, while also maximising their options to achieve their own vision of the perfect picture. For
­photographs that have the capacity to capture the otherwise hidden or unnoticed aspects of life.

Since the introduction of the rangefinder principle in 1954, photojournalists and photographic artists have ­influenced
our image of the world with their discreet, fast Leica M-Cameras. Rangefinder cameras are ideal for ­taking vibrant,
authentic images of events as they happen, and many photographers have benefited from this, including those from
the world’s first independent photo agency, Magnum, founded in 1947 by legendary photog­rapher Henri Cartier-
Bresson and others. Then as now, members of Magnum believed that photographers must have a perspective in
their imagery that transcends a simple, clichéd recording of reality.

We are therefore particularly pleased that it is once again a Magnum photographer, Jean Gaumy, who added the
new Leica M, the latest milestone in the history of Leica M-Cameras, to his luggage on his most recent trip. His
unusual destination fulfilled the promise of unusual pictures. Look forward to seeing an example of documentary
photography that shows how individual moments can become chapters in a living story: absolute authenticity,
straight from the heart of life itself.

Yours,
Leica Camera AG
Top: Bishkek, Ala-Too Square in March 2000. Under the eyes of Lenin – preparations for the 122nd anniversary of the city’s foundation. Bottom: Bishkek,
Ala-Too Square, 12 years later – preparations for the 134th birthday of the capital city around the new monument to Manas, the Kyrgyz national hero.

LEICA EDITORIAL I 05
 l EicaCAMERA AG
Passionateaboutphotography.

1913/14 1925 1930 1932 1954 1965 1966 1971 1996

oskarBarnackconstructs Leica Iwithafi xedlens thefirstleicawith Leica II:thefirstcamera Leica M3withcombined Leicafl ex:thefirstleica Leica Noctilux-M  Leica M5:thefirstrangefinder Leica S1:thefirstdigital
theUr-Leica. ispresentedattheleipzig interchangeable withacoupledrangefinder. bright-lineviewfinder/ singlelensreflexcamera 50 mm f/1.2:thefirst camerawithselectivemetering camerawith75-megapixel
SpringFair. thread-mountlenses rangefinderandbayonet goesintoproduction. lenswithan throughthelens. resolution.
appearsonthemarket. lensmount. asphericalelement.

oskarBarnack(1879–1936). SketchedconstructiondiagrambyoskarBarnack. theleitzopticsbuilding,Wetzlar. ‘Kissingintherearviewmirror,’bymagnumphotographer installationofthecontrolboardontherearshelloftheleicaS2. lenselementandassembled

ElliottErwitt,1955. lenstesting.

Leica S2 Leica M9 Leica X1 Leica S Leica M Leica X2

2006 2008 2009 2012

Leica M8:thefirst Leica Noctilux-M Leica S2: theprofessional Leica M9:thesmallest Leica X1:thefirst Leica S: mediumformat–reduced Leica M:thenewmgeneration Leica X2:thetrailblazer

digitalrangefinder 50 mm f/0.95 ASPH.: digitalcamerasetsnew digitalsystemcamera compactcamerawithan tothemaximum. withaleicamax24mPsensor, initsclassforimage
camera. theworld’sfastestever standardsinmedium-format withafull-framesensor. aPS-formatsensor. liveView,andvideo. quality.
asphericallens. photography.

leicacamerasharessomethingwithcountlesspeoplearoundtheworld:aloveof,andapassionfor,photography.
it’sthefascinationofcapturingamomentintime;shapingit,transformingitintosomethingtimeless,andexperi-
encingitagainandagainasauniquephotograph.thisiswhathasdrivenleicaforalmost100years.Wecreate
camerasusingthehighestqualitymaterialsandassemblethemmeticulouslybyhand,sothateveryleicadelivers
unwaveringreliabilityandqualityoveralifetime.Whetherit’susedprofessionally,artisticallyorsimplyoutofthe
joyofdocumentinglife,onethingconnectsallleicacameras:theyallhelpthephotographertoconcentrateon
theessentials–agreatphotograph.Eachdeviceisasmallmasterpiece.leicacamerasarecompact,ageless,
elegant,easytouseandyetuncompromisingintheiroptical,mechanicalandtechnicalquality.theyaretheperfect
toolsforanyonewhounderstandsthefascinationofphotographyandwhoappreciatesauniquephotograph.

 06 i lEicacamEraaG  lEicacamEraaG i 07

 LEICA CAMERA AG
From an idea to a legend.
Photography cannot stop the course of time, but it can capture, document and interpret its fleeting moments,
preserving memories of those poignant seconds for eternity. Indeed, the transformation of the transitory into 
the eternal is one of the main reasons we take pictures. And thanks in part to the pioneering spirit of Leica, it 
is now possible for everyone to record their memories conveniently as they happen. It all began around a ­century
ago, when Oskar Barnack changed photography with a stroke of genius – designing the first Leica, a small, ­robust,
easy-to-use 24 × 36 mm format camera that paved the way for photography as we know it today. In 1954, the
launch of the Leica M-System, with its brilliant combined viewfinder and coupled rangefinder, opened up vast new
horizons in reportage and artistic photography. In the eyes of photographers, a Leica M has always been the per-
fect tool for capturing the fascination of a moment discreetly, silently, without hesitation, and with perfect image
quality. Indeed, unsurpassed image quality was, is, and always will be the key founding principle of Leica. Every
08 I LEICA CAMERA AG
‘Felix, Gladys, and Rover’ is one of the best-known pictures by the Magnum photographer Elliott Erwitt. It was captured
during a fashion shoot for the New York Times Magazine in 1974. Copyright by Elliott Erwitt, 1974, Magnum Photos.
innovation and development since then has been measured against this strict criterion. With the launch of the
Leica M8 in 2006, a new era in the history of rangefinder cameras began: the M-System turned digital. Then, in
2009, Leica set a further milestone in digital photography with the Leica M9. It is the world’s first rangefinder cam-
era with a full-size, 35 mm format sensor (24 × 36 mm). In 2012, the latest digital generation continued the evolution
of the legendary M-System and its unique benefits: this generation includes the Leica M Monochrom, the world’s
first 35 mm digital camera exclusively for black-and-white photography, followed by the Leica M-E, a camera that
embodies the philosophy of the system in its purest form. However, only the new Leica M can truly lay a claim to
the title of ‘a new milestone’ in the M-Family. Featuring Live View, video capability, and new, additional focusing
methods, it is the most innovative and versatile M-Camera of all time.
LEICA CAMERA AG I 09
LEICA
REPORTAGE

Mountain steppe on the way from Kochkor to the mountain lake Song Kul and its ‘jailoos’ (Kyrgyz for ‘summer pastures’).
 LEICA REPORTAGE
Unknown Kyrgyzstan.

Kirghizia, Kirghiz Republic, or Kyrgyzstan? For most people from the western hemisphere, confusion begins on hear-
ing the different names of the country. Not many know that all three names have been used over the years or that
the Kyrgyz people prefer to say ‘Kyrgyzstan’ to emphasize their Turkic heritage. Many would also have difficulty
trying to locate the country on a map, let alone be versed in the culture or history of the former Soviet republic.
The same could be said for the prominent, multiple-award-winning Magnum photographer Jean Gaumy in 2000 when
his agency asked him if he would like to work in one of the states of the former USSR as part of a cultural project.
Looking through a list, his eye was caught by the name ‘Kyrgyzstan’ that, in his own words, was ‘about as unknown
to me as the planet Mars’ and, for precisely this reason, awakened his curiosity and passion for adventure. So, the
beginning of the new millennium found Jean Gaumy in the then still young Kyrgyz Republic, as it is officially known.

Exactly ten years later, a French radio programme described Kyrgyzstan and its capital city of Bishkek as ‘probably
the least known places on Earth,’ which inspired Jean Gaumy to revisit the central Asian republic. With a new Leica M
in his luggage, Gaumy set out in the fall of 2012 to bring back impressions from the ‘terra incognita’ of Kyrgyzstan
and its people. The outcome is a multi-faceted portrait of a country that has been in turmoil since declaring its
independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Ancient nomadic traditions, clan interests, and the common legacy
of the Soviet era clash with the dreams and hopes of a young generation who increasingly join the migration from
rural areas to the cities and begin to embrace Western culture ahead of their recent Russian heritage: it is a nation
that dreams of a better future while still struggling to establish a national identity.
Top: The Jayma bazaar in Osh is one of central Asia’s largest bazaars. Bottom: Two women cross the road in the provincial capital of Naryn.

12 I LEICA REPORTAGE
 In recent years, the search for unity and national identity has been characterised at a political level by attempts to
emphasise the majority of the Kyrgyz peoples’ nomadic roots. During his first visit to the country’s capital city of
Bishkek, Jean Gaumy recalls that the main square was dominated by a monumental statue of Lenin, which can be
seen in one of his earlier photos. In 2003, the Communist leader had to go to make room for the Erkindik statue of
liberty, a winged female figure standing on a globe and holding out a flaming tunduk (the frame of the smoke hole
of a Kyrgyz yurt). Nevertheless, the Lenin statue was not destroyed after its removal; it was merely relocated to the
back of the Kyrgyz national museum. The statue of liberty was removed on the occasion of the 20th anniversary
of the nation’s independence in August 2011 and replaced by a statue of Manas, the Kyrgyz national hero who,
according to legend, united the 40 Kyrgyz tribal clans and led their battle against the Uighurs. The 40 rays of the
sun around a yurt viewed from above on the flag of Kyrgyzstan symbolise these 40 clans.

The mountainous country of Kyrgyzstan is around half the size of Germany. It shares borders in the north and north-
east with Kazakhstan, in the west and northwest with Uzbekistan, in the south and southwest with Tajikistan, and
in the south and southeast with China. Bishkek, the capital city in the north, is the political and commercial centre
of the nation. The ancient pilgrim city of Osh, founded over 2,000 years ago and often described as the capital city
of the south, lies on the edge of the fertile Fergana valley and is famous for the cotton grown in the region. With 40 %
of the country at an altitude over 3,000 metres, the topography of Kyrgyzstan is characterised by the massive moun-
tain chains of the Tien Shan and the northern foothills of the Pamirs. At a height of 7,439 metres, Jengish Chokusu,
on the border with China, is the country’s highest mountain. Even the pastures around Lake Song Kul, used for cen-
turies as grazing land by the nomadic tribes and visited by Jean Gaumy and his team, are situated at the unbelievable
altitude of 3,016 metres. Let us take you to on a journey to a country that could not be more fascinating – a country
of extremes between tradition and the modern age, between the cultures of the East and West.
Top: Women in prayer on Solomon’s Throne, the holy mountain close to the ancient trading centre of Osh, Kyrgyzstan’s
second-largest city. Bottom: Typical Kyrgyz cattle market near Osh, in the southeastern part of the country.

LEICA REPORTAGE I 15
LEICA
M - SYSTEM

Preparations for the 134th anniversary of the founding in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek.
The Leica Reportage continues on page 28: Happy anniversary, Bishkek.
 l EicaM - SYSTEM
masin‘messsucher’.

Whatyouseethroughtheviewfinderofanm-camera.theinnerbright-lineframeshowstheimageboundariesfora90mmlens,
whiletheouterframeshowstheboundariesfora28mmlens.thegreyrectangleinthecentreistherangefinderfocusingarea.

leicam-camerasarealivinglegend.themstandsformesssucher,theGermantermforacombinedrangefinder
andviewfinder,andforanindividualstyleofphotography.thissystem,generallydescribedinabbreviatedformas
arangefinder,hasparticularmeritsthatenablephotographerstodevelopanunmistakablevisuallanguagethat
transformstheiruniquelypersonal,subjectivevisualconceptsintophotographicrealities.atthesametime,the
leicamhasintuitivecontrolsandissimpletouse–evenforphotographerswhohavepreviouslyonlyusedSlr
cameras.Withaleicam,therearenosuperfluousfunctionsandnoovercomplicatedmenus.Photographersare
giventheopportunitytoconcentrateontheessential:creatingmemorablepictures.

therangefindersystem,aboveallothers,enablesphotographerstocaptureauthentic,naturalimages,takenfrom
reallife.inaway,leicam-Photographersbecomepartoftheactioninframingwhatevertheywishtocapturein
theviewfinder–ascene,amood,aspecialmoment.atthesametime,thephotographerstillperceiveswhat
isgoingonoutsidetheviewfinderframe.thedecisivemomentthusbecomesmorepredictable,anditcanbe
capturedatpreciselytherighttime.theclearviewofthesubjectremainsvisibleevenduringtheexposureand
evenunderthemostdifficultlightingconditions.thebright,high-contrastviewfindercombinedwiththeworld- tHEraNGEFiNdEr/ anopticalmasterpiececreatedforthebestinphotography.comparedtoSlrphotography,wherefocusingtakes
ViEWFiNdEr placethroughthelens,andlensfocallengthandaperturesetlimitsonfocusingaccuracy,therangefinderbaseof
renownedm-Systemrangefinder,ensuresextremelyfastandprecisefocusing.theminimaldelaybetween
SYStEm theleicamremainspreciselythesameregardlessofthelensbeingused,andthereforeallowsextraordinarilyprecise
releasingtheshutterandcapturingtheshotmakestheleicam-camerathefastest,mostresponsiveintheworld. focusingwithalllenses.thisisthefundamentalreasonwhythefocusingprecisionofthem-Systemisfarsuperiorto
alongwiththelegendarymPandm735mmcameras,them8andthem8.2–thefirstdigitalleicammodels thatofSlrcameras,particularlywithshortfocallengthlenses.thehigh-contrastrangefinderrectangleinthecentre
–advancedthenobleheritageoftheleicam-System.theleicam9alreadysetanewmilestoneastheworld’s oftheviewfinderguaranteesfast,precise,andpin-sharpfocusing,evenunderthemostadverselightingconditions.
Sincethepositionofthesixdifferentbright-lineframesisautomaticallycorrectedforparallaxatallfocusingdis-
smallestsystemcamerawithafull-format24×36mmsensorin2009.itwasfollowedbyanevenmorediscreet
tances,theyshowtheimageboundariesfortheselectedfocallength.thebright-lineviewfindershowsallinformation
version,theleicam9-P.Withthelaunchoftheleicammonochrom,theleicam-E,andthenewleicamin2012, relevanttothecaptureofaperfectimageincludingtheperipheralareaaroundthemainsubject,thusprovidingsig-
anewgenerationofdigitalcamerasnowpavesthewayforthefutureofthem-System. nificantadvantageswhencreatingspontaneousphotographs.Unobtrusivelyandwithabsolutediscretion.

 18 i lEicam-SYStEm  lEicam-SYStEm i 19

 comPact Nootherprofessionalcameraisascompactasaleicam.Becausethe
cameraneedsnomirrorbox,itcanbeconstructedwithadepthofless
than42mm,asinthecaseofthenewleicam.them-lensesalsobenefit
fromtheshortdistancebetweenthemountandtheimageplane,which
permitstheconstructionoflenseswithextremelysmalldimensionsand
lowweights.theextraordinarycompactnessofm-camerasandm-lenses
alsomakesthemtheidealcamerasystemfortravelandreportagephoto-
graphy.mirrorslapandrelatedshakeeffectsincapturedimagesare
problemsneverencounteredbym-Photographers.

diScrEEt Unobtrusiveness,clarityofdesign,andabarelyaudibleshutteralsoplay
asignificantroleincreatingtheuniquecharismaofleicamimages.time
andagain,photographersworkingwithm-camerasinareasofsocialand
politicaltensionaroundtheworldreportthattheyarenotperceivedas
journalists,andcancaptureimagesthatremainunattainableforusersof
othercamerasystems.thefastm-lensesalsomakehandheldshooting
possibleforalongtimeinfailinglight,withouttheneedforatripodorflash
unit.Portraitsappearmorerelaxedbecausethecameradoesnothidethe
photographer’sface,andeyecontactwiththesubjectismaintained.an
evenmorediscreetapproachtophotographyisnowopenedupbythelive
Viewmonitorofthenewleicam.thisoffersanalternativetotheconspicu-
ousactofraisingtheviewfindertotheeye.

FocUSEd Everythingnewlydesignedorfurtherdevelopedintheevolutionaryprocess
oftheleicam-Systemsatisfiesagenuinephotographicneed.thisprinciple
wasalsoconstantlykeptinmindthroughoutthedevelopmentofthelatest
m-Generation–theleicammonochrom,theleicam-E,andtheleicam.
theoutcomeisthreedigitalrangefindercamerasthatquiteintentionallydo
notoffereverythingmadepossiblebymoderntechnology,butlimitthem-
selvesexclusivelytowhatmakesrealsenseintermsofphotography.these
essentialsincludethem-typicalrapidmanualfocusingwiththeviewfinder/
rangefinderandthefocusingringofthelens,butalsotheoptionofselecting
automaticallydeterminedormanuallysetshutterspeeds.Eveninautomatic
mode,correctionscanbemademanuallywiththeapertureringtoensure
thatphotographersareconstantlyincontrolof‘theirpicture.’

aspecialroleinthenewdigitalleicam-Familyisplayedbytheleicam.
Justliketheleicammonochromandtheleicam-E,thelatestmilestone
inthem-Systemnaturallyoffersallmanualsettingoptions.inadditionto
these,italsofeaturesliveView,full-Hdvideo,andnew,additionalfocusing
methodsforthosewhodon’twanttomissoutoncontemporarycamera
technologies.inthisway,itsuccessfullyexpandsthepossibilitiesofthe
m-Systemwhileremainingtruetoitstraditionalvalues.

topandbottom:Preparationsforthe134thanniversaryofitsfoundingintheKyrgyzcapitalofBishkek.

 lEicam-SYStEm i 21
 toUGH Peoplewhotakephotographyseriouslyusuallylivetheirlivesattheedge;
insearingheatorbittercold,pouringrainorswirlingdust.themisbuilt
tobeconsistent,dependable,andtoughunderalmostanyimaginablecondi-
tions.thisiswhyresilienceandendurancearealwaysprimeconcernsin
thedesignandconstructionofeverym-camera.italsoexplainswhythe
bodyismanufacturedexclusivelyfromonlythebestmaterials:brassfor
thetopandbaseplatesandhigh-impactmagnesiumalloyforthebody.the
newleicamalsofeaturestheextraprotectionofamonitorcoverglassin
particularlytoughandscratch-resistantcorning®Gorilla®glass.Specially
designedrubbersealsofferthebodyofthenewmadditionalprotection
againstdustandsplashes.thedigitalcomponentsofallleicam-cameras
arecarefullyselectedforenduranceandreliabilityineverydayuse.Elabo-
ratemanufacturingandassemblyprocessesguaranteefunctionalreliability
fordecadestocome.

UNiQUE Precisionisthebe-allandend-allintheconstructionofanyleicaproduct.
cUStomEr Noproducteverleavestheleicafactorybeforeallcriticalmanufacturing
commitmENt phaseshavebeenrigorouslychecked.Productsthatcanstillbeserviced
andrepaireddecadesaftertheywerebuiltareextremelyrareinthesetimes
ofplannedobsolescenceanddisposableproducts.ButthecustomerSer-
vicedepartmentatleicastillservicesandrepairsallm-cameras–from
thefirstonebuiltin1954totheverylatestmodels!

top:marketsceneinthecapital.Bottom:WeddingphotoinfrontofBishkek’sweddingpalace,whereonsomedays,upto100marriagestakeplace.

 22 i lEicam-SYStEm
 UNriVallEd theconstructionoftheextremelycompactleicam-lensesisfocused
PErFormaNcE ononesingleaim:deliveringimagingexcellenceinfilmanddigital
photography.leicaengineerscontinuouslyinvestenormouseffortand
innovativeingenuityintheirquestforperfectopticalsolutions.theout-
come:lenseswithunrivalledperformance.theyoftenhavefeweroptical
elementsinordertoreducethenumberofair-glasssurfacesthatlight
raysmustpassthroughtoaminimum.thisdesignconcept,madepos-
siblebytheuseofthehighestqualityglassandprecisionmanufacturing
techniques,createsthebasisforimagesendowedwithanunmistakable
character–notonlyincontrastandresolution,butalsoinstructureand
tonalrichness.theyhaveauniquelynaturalsignaturethat’sparticularly
noticeableinimagesshotunderadverselightingconditions.thisis
furtherenhancedbythesheerpleasureofasilky-smoothfocusingac-
tionwithoutatraceofplay.thisoutstandingqualityisensuredforevery
singlelensweproducebytheexperiencedhandsofourfactory’spreci-
sionopticalandmechanicalengineers.Yetanotherreasonwhyleica
lensesareconsideredbymanyveteranphotographersandimaging
expertstobethebestintheworld.

modErN thesuperiorperformanceofleicalensesisbasedonthemostmodern
tEcHNoloGYat technologies:asphericalelementsenabletheconstructionofhighly
YoUrSErVicE compactlensesthatprovidebreathtakingperformance.theuseoffloa-
 tingelements(differentiallymovableopticalgroups)ensuressuperb
resolutionatclosefocusingdistances.apochromaticcorrectioninthe
opticalsystemsoftelephotolensesguaranteesbrilliantreproduction
withoutanycolourfringingeffects.Sophisticatedsolutionsforthesup-
pressionofinternalreflectionsenhancecontrastandshadowdetail.itis
safetosaythateveryleicalensdeliverssuperbperformanceevenatits
maximumaperture.Stoppingdownservesmainlytoincreasethedepth
offield.

comPatiBilitY leicaengineerscreatedatimelessstandardwhentheydesignedthe
leicambayonetinthe1950s.thislensmountensuressystemcompat-
ibilitytothepresentdayandthelatest,digitalgenerationofm-cameras.
almostallm-lensesaresuitableforuseincombinationwiththedigital
m-cameras.However,systemcompatibilityisdecidedlyforward-looking,
andnotasignofstagnation.thanksto6-bitcoding,theleicammono-
chrom,theleicam-E,andtheleicamrecognizethecharacteristicsof
theattachedlensandemploythisinformationforinternalprocessing.
Uncodedleicalensescanalsobeusedonthenewdigitalm-cameras
withtheiradvancedm-Bayonetmount.Similarly,thenew,6-bitcoded
lensesarealsoperfectlyathomeonanyoftheearliermfilmcameras.

Evengreatercompatibilityfortheleicamisprovidedbytheleicar-
adapter.Whenthe6-bitcodedadapterismountedonthecamera,users
maychoosefrommorethan20differentr-lensesthatalsoofferbotha
calibratedimageworkflowandExiflensrecognition.Withawiderange
ofwide-angle,telephoto,zoom,andmacrolenses,r-lensesofferattrac-
tiveopportunitiesforleicam-Photographerstoexpandthecapabilities
oftheircamera.

top:intheamusementparkinthecapitalcityofBishkek.Bottom:Kyrgyz‘art’onsaleinBishkek’smarket.

 lEicam-SYStEm i 25
 l Eica M - SYSTEM
Everythingataglance.

lEicam-camEraS

lEicam lEicam-E lEicammonochrom lEicamP lEicam7

availableinblackpaintorsilverchrome. availableinanthracite-greypaint. availableinblackchromefinish. availableinsilverchromeandblackpaintfinish. availableinsilverchromeandblackchrome.

HiGH-SPEEdlENSES ZoomlENSES

lEicaSUmmilUX-m lEicaSUmmilUX-m lEicaSUmmicroN-m lEicaSUmmilUX-m lEicaNoctilUX-m lEicaSUmmilUX-m lEicaaPo-SUmmicroN-m lEicaaPo-SUmmicroN-m lEicaaPo-SUmmicroN-m lEicatri-Elmar-m
21mmf/1.4aSPH. 24mmf/1.4aSPH. 28mmf/2aSPH. 35mmf/1.4aSPH. 50mmf/0.95aSPH. 50mmf/1.4aSPH. 50mmf/2aSPH. 75mmf/2aSPH. 90mmf/2aSPH. 16-18-21mmf/4aSPH.

FaStaNdcomPactlENSES SUmmaritlENSES

lEicaSUPEr-Elmar-m lEicaSUPEr-Elmar-m lEicaElmar-m lEicaElmarit-m lEicaSUmmicroN-m lEicaSUmmicroN-m lEicamacro-Elmar-m lEicaaPo-tElYt-m lEicaSUmmarit-m lEicaSUmmarit-m lEicaSUmmarit-m lEicaSUmmarit-m
18mmf/3.8aSPH. 21mmF/3.4aSPH. 24mmf/3.8aSPH. 28mmf/2.8aSPH. 35mmf/2aSPH. 50mmf/2 90mmf/4 135mmf/3.4 35mmf/2.5 50mmf/2.5 75mmf/2.5 90mmf/2.5

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 LEICA REPORTAGE
Happy anniversary, Bishkek.

As luck would have it, Jean Gaumy arrived just in time for the festivities for 134th anniversary of the founding of the
capital. This was an amazingly bright and colourful spectacle in which the traditional elements of nomadic heritage
combine with those of a more modern age in scenes more reminiscent of Soviet propaganda events of the 1970s
or early 1980s. Instead of the portraits of former communist revolutionaries, Manas, the Kyrgyz national hero,
looks down from enormous posters – he is still portrayed in socialist realist style, but today with traditional ethnic
trappings. The weddings so typical for today’s young citizens of the capital stand in clear contrast. For any self-
respecting happy couple, the dreams of a better future begin in Bishkek’s Wedding Palace. The ceremony is brief.
The next couples are already standing in line. Anyone hoping to see traditional wedding costume will certainly be
disappointed: much like in the Western world, the bride wears white and the groom a black suit. Bunches of roses
wrapped in plastic foil are everywhere, and at the end, the bride and groom drive away in a white limousine bearing
the emblem of a prominent German automobile brand.
Top: People in the crowd under a monumental banner showing national hero Manas at Bishkek’s 134th anniversary festivities.
Bottom: Among the favorite pastimes of the Kyrgyz people are equestrian sports, for instance horse racing, as seen here in Bishkek.

LEICA REPORTAGE I 29
LEICA
M

The hay harvest between Bishkek and Kochkor.

The Leica Reportage continues on page 42: Country life – far from idyllic.
 lEica M
thefutureofthem-System.

leicam,full-sizeview,availableinblackpaintorsilverchrome. leicam,full-sizeview.

1 atrUEm   6 SimPlEaNdPrEciSEFocUSiNG

thenewleicamisthemostinnovativeandversatilem-camera–ineveryrespect.itsconsistentpreservation 2 lEicamaX24-mPSENSor   7 SPlaSH-ProoFcamEraBodY

ofthephilosophyofthesystemiswhatmakesitaparticularlysignificantmilestone.thenewleicamreapsthe 3 lEicamaEStroimaGEProcESSor   8 loNGBattErYliFE

benefitsofmorethan50yearsofexperiencewiththerangefindersystem.atthesametime,itexploitsforward-
4 liVEViEWaNdtHEViSoFlEX   9 ErGoNomicHaNdliNG
lookingdigitaltechnologies:itfeaturesanewhigh-resolution,full-formatcmoSsensorthat,incombinationwith
ElEctroNicViEWFiNdEr 10 comPatiBilitYWitHlEicar-lENSES
itshigh-performanceprocessorandlegendarym-lenses,deliversoutstandingimageresults–infact,itisa
typicalm.ButwithliveView,videorecording,andnewfocusingmethods,itisalsothemforphotographers 5 FUll-HdVidEoWitHlEicalENSES
lookingfortheultimateinmoderndigitaltechnology.thenewmsuccessfullyexpandsthescopeofthem-System
whileremainingtruetoitsfundamentalprinciples. discoverthefascinationofleicamwww.m.leica-camera.com

 32 i lEicam  lEicam i 33

 lEica M
mformaximumimagequality.

1 atrUEm thenewleicamunitesmorethan50yearsofexperiencedevelopingtherangefindersystem
withtheinnovativepotentialofferedbythedigitalage.asthelatestmilestoneinthecurrent
mfamily,itisoneofthemostcompactfull-formatsystemcamerascurrentlyavailable.For
example,itsnew24×36mmcmoSsensordeliversfull35mmformatwithoutcompromise.
Systemcompatibilityhasalwaysbeenacharacteristicfeatureoftheleicam-System,andthe
newmisnoexception:itbenefitsfromaccesstotheentireportfolioofm-lenses,recognised
astheworld’sbestlenssystem.introducedin1954,ithasbeencontinuouslyadvancedand
improvedovertime.andtoday,almosteverym-lenseverbuiltiscompatibleforusewiththe
digitalm.Butthat’snotall:withthenewleicar-adapter,almosteveryleicar-lenscanalso
beusedwiththeleicam,expandingitsoptionsintotheworldofleicar-Photography,too.
thesuccessfulstoryoftheleicam-Systemcontinues.

2 lEicamaX24-mP theleicamfeaturesanewly-designedhigh-resolution,24-megapixelcmoSsensorinfull
SENSor 35mmformat.incombinationwiththeleicamaestroimageprocessor,originallyfeatured
onlyintheleicaS-System,theleicamax24-mPsensorgeneratestheoutstandingimage
leicam,full-sizeview,availableinblackpaintorsilverchrome. qualityoftheleicam.Forthefirsttimeinthehistoryofthedigitalm-System,everycompo-
nentintheimagecreationflow,fromlenstoimagefile,areleicain-housedevelopments.as
aresult,ourteamofengineershassuccessfullyperfectedtheentireimagecreationchainfor
usewithm-andr-lenseswithoutcompromise,inordertoexploitthefullpotentialofthese
lenses.theconsequenceofthisisimageswithsuperiorsharpnessandthefinestreproduc-
tionofdetail.thenewmdeliversextremelylow-noiseandrichlydetailedimages,evenat
highersensitivitiesofuptoiSo6400.incombinationwithfastleicalenses,thislownoise
performancemakesthecameraanidealtoolforavailable-lightphotography.theintegrated
imagingelectronicsoftheleicamaestroprocessoralsoallowparticularlyfastresponsetimes
andanalmostinstantaneousstart-uptime–andensurethatthephotographerisalways
readytoshoot.

3 lEicamaEStro
imaGEProcESSor
Uncompromisingimagequalityhasbeenthemostimportantfactorinthedevelopmentofthe
leicam-Systemsincetheveryfirstmodel.Everyinnovationandimprovementovertimehas
beenmeasuredbythisprinciple.itisnotsurprising,then,thatthenewleicamisthefirstdigital
leicaminwhicheverycomponentinvolvedinimagecreation–fromthelenstotheimagefile–
hasbeendevelopedin-houseatleica.thiswastheonlywaytoensuretheperfectco-ordination
ofsensorandprocessorperformance,aswellasinteractionwiththeuniquecharacteristicsof
leicalenses,resultinginoutstandingperformanceandimagesofuniquequality.
thecombinationofnewsensorandleicamaestroprocessorsetsentirelynewstandards
intermsofimage-processingspeed.itprocessestheimagedataarrivingfromthesensor
andtransformsitintovisibleimagesatveryhighspeed.thismeticulouslydesignedand
developedsensorensureshighspeedperformance,aswellasotherusefulbenefits.the
maestroprocessorcontainsseveralindependentsegmentsthatallowit,forexample,to
processanincomingimagewhileitisstillwritingthepreviousimagetothememorycard.
itcanalsoperformcomplexprocessingstepsatextremelyhighspeed.atthesametime,its
particularlylowpowerconsumptionhasapositiveeffectonbatterylife.thankstoitspower-
fulimageprocessor,anddespitethehigh-resolutionsensor,theleicamcansimultaneously
generateahigh-qualityJPEGfileinthecameraatthesametimeasthedNGrawdatafile
destinedforfinalpost-productiononacomputer,ifrequired.

 34 i lEicam  lEicam i 35

 lEica M
timelessandpioneering.

4 liVEViEWaNd thenewleicamisthefirstevermtofeatureliveViewandliveViewFocusing.thismeans
tHEViSoFlEX that,forthefirsttime,m-Systemimagescanbecomposedusingtheactualimageproducedby
ElEctroNic thelens–withcompletecontroloverdepthoffield,exposure,preciseframingandfocusing.
V iEWFiNdEr itslarge,high-resolution3"monitorwith920,000pixelsallowspreciseassessmentofeach
potentialimagewithregardtosharpness,correctexposureandcolour.thisopensupentirely
newopportunitiesform-Photographersthatpreviouslylaybeyondthepossibilitiesofview-
finder-controlledphotography,inparticular,whenshootingmacroortelephotoexposures.it
alsoallowsthephotographertoshootevenmorediscreetly,usingthemonitorinsteadofthe
traditionalviewfinder.thenewliveViewfunctioncanbeusedtoitsfullextentwithbothm-
andr-lenses.indirectly,theliveViewoptionoffersanadditionalbenefitforr-lensowners.
itenablestheuseofanoptionalVisoflexEVF2electronicviewfinderwithliveView.thismeans
thataleicamwithanr-adapter,r-lenses,andaviewfindercanbeusedexactlylikeanSlr,
withoutusingthemonitor.

leicam,full-sizeview,availableinblackpaintorsilverchrome. 5 FUll-HdVidEo leicalensesarefamousfortheirsuperiorresolution,highspeedsandattractivebokeh.and

WitHlEicalENSES now,theuniquequalityofleicalensescanbeexploitedwiththe1080pixel,full-Hdvideo
recordingfeatureoftheleicam.recordingcanbestarteddirectlywithaseparaterelease
button.completecontroloverexposureandcapturesettingsenablesphotographersto
complementtheirstillimageswithprofessionalvideorecordings,withthesamelookand
qualitysowellknowninleicam-Photography.theleicamofferstheoptionofrecording
imagesasmotionJPEGs,i.e.astrue,individualfullframes,whichbringsenormousadvantages
forvideoediting.aswithstillimages,thenewleicar-adapteralsoallowsvideorecording
withr-lensesmountedontheleicamwithfullfunctionality.Perfectsoundisensuredby
anoptionalleicamicrophoneadapterset,comprisinganadapterandastereomicrophone.
otherbrandsofmicrophonecanalsobeattachedusingtheadapter.

6 SimPlE
aNdPrEciSE
F ocUSiNG
thenewleicamisalsothefirstmtofeaturefull-Hdvideoandtwonewfocusingmethodsas
additionalalternativestoconventionalrangefinderfocusing.itthereforeexploitstheoppor-
tunitiesofferedbymoderncameratechnologyinalogicalexpansionoftheleicam-System.
inparticular,itsfull-Hdvideorecordingcapabilityopensupnewcreativehorizonsforthe
m-Systemphotographerthatgofarbeyondclassicphotography.However,thenewleicam
wouldnothavebeenatrue‘m’withoutthededicationofleica’sdesignengineerstoaddress
themostimportantissueofimagequality–translatingthecharacteristiclookofmimagesto
thenewmediumwithoutcompromise.
theclassicrangefindersystemguaranteesfast,preciseandcrystal-clearfocusingwith
superioraccuracy,whicheverlensisused,butparticularlywithwide-anglelenses.thenew
leicamnowofferstwoadditionalfocusingmethods,whichcanbeactivatedquicklyand
easilywiththenewfocusbutton.
thenew‘liveViewZoom’enablesupto10×magnificationoftheliveViewdisplayfor
completecontrolandprecisefocusingonfinedetailsorattheclosefocusingrange.
anotherhighlightis‘liveViewFocusPeaking’:here,automatichighlightingofcontoursin
redprovidesconvenientfocuscontrol.thiscontourdisplayenablespreciseassessment
offocusingaccuracy.dependingonthesituationorthephotographer’spreferences,
muserscannowchoosefromseveraloptionsforguaranteeingoutstandinglysharpimages.

 36 i lEicam  lEicam i 37

 LEICA M
The perfect tool to experience the fascination of photography.

    7 SPLASH-PROOF Robust and enduring, it is not rare for a Leica to become its owner’s lifelong companion. This
CAMERA BODY applies particularly in the case of the new M. Thanks to the many years of experience gained
by our engineers in the construction of camera bodies, not only the M-System, but also the 
R- and S-Systems are built for maximum stability and perfect sealing. Its top and base plates
are machined from solid brass blanks and its full-metal body is created in one piece from
high-strength magnesium alloy. The glass covering plate of its high-resolution monitor screen
is manufactured from particularly tough and scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass.
S
­ pecially designed rubber seals protect its body against splashes, moisture and dust, making
the Leica M a pleasure to use in any weather conditions.

    8 LONG BATTERY LIFE The new lithium-ion battery (1800 mAh) in the Leica M means even extremely long shooting
sessions can be achieved without having to recharge or change over battery. Thanks to the 
high-performance rechargeable battery, energy-saving exposure metering electronics, the
imaging electronics of the Leica Maestro image processor and the new sensor, a single charge
guarantees an extremely large number of exposures, which is particularly useful when shooting
in remote locations.

    9 ERGONOMIC Intuitive handling, direct manual setting options, and rapid access to all the important photo­
HANDLING graphic functions were essential ingredients of the digital M-System philosophy right from
the beginning. The new and attractive features of the Leica M have changed nothing in this
respect. In addition to manual focusing and direct aperture and shutter speed setting options,
the combination of an ergonomically-positioned control wheel on the top plate and intuitive
menu navigation are at the heart of the Leica M operating concept. The newly-designed and
user-friendly menu interface displayed on the large rear monitor guarantees a clear overview
of all camera settings at all times. And this guarantees that M-Camera owners can always
concentrate on what’s essential – their pictures.

True to the principles of the M-Philosophy, the video and Live View features, and the new
focus functions, each have their own controls. The new focus button on the front of the
camera allows selection of Live View Zoom and Live View Focus Peaking, as well as fast and
easy exposure corrections in combination with the control wheel. ISO sensitivity settings are
also controlled by a dedicated button. The Set button provides direct access to white balance,
image file compression, resolution, exposure compensation, bracketing, and user profiles. In
user profiles, any camera and exposure settings can be saved under a user-selected name
and rapidly retrieved whenever required. For added convenience, these profiles can be saved
to an SD card. The new Leica M now also features an ergonomically formed thumb rest at the
top-right end of the top plate, for improved handling. This ensures ideal grip and stability in
even the most demanding shooting situations. In addition to this, the new, generously dimensi-
oned 3" monitor guarantees maximum ease of use.

10 COMPATIBILITY The new Leica R-Adapter allows almost all Leica R-Lenses to be mounted on the new Leica M.
WITH  The extensive range of R-Lenses, from various wide-angles, telephoto, and macro lenses to a
LEICA R-LENSES selection of zooms, offers almost limitless new opportunities for expanding the capabilities
of the Leica M-System. Additional support for the use of R-Lenses is provided by the optional
Visoflex EVF2 electronic accessory viewfinder.

Top: With the Kylich family on the long trip from Bishkek to Kochkor.
Bottom: Bokonbayevo on the southern shores of the mountain lake Issyk Kul.

38 I LEICA M
 l Eica M
technicaldetails.

incominglight
1

microlens microlens microlens

  ensor architecture of a 
S NEWSENSor inconjunctionwiththehigh-performanceleicamaestroprocessor,theleicamax24-mP
standard CMOS sensor
colourfilter colourfilter colourfilter high-resolution,full-format(35mm)sensorensuresthemaximumimagequalityandspeed
(schematicdiagram)
oftheleicam.thenewsensorisaninnovative,high-techproductdevelopedbyleica
1m icrolensdesignwith incollaborationwithcmoSiSespeciallyforthenewleicamandforusewithm-and
normalradius. r-lenses.thisdevelopmenthassuccessfullytransferredthecharacteristicadvantagesof
2r elativelylargedistance 2 ccdsensorstoacmoSsensor,andpreservesthenatural,brilliantcolourrenditionand
betweencolourfilter
impressivedetailresolutionassociatedwithccdsensors.Butthatisbynomeansthe
andphotodiode.
onlyimpressivefeatureofthisenergy-savingsensor.itsparticularlyflatpixelarchitecture
Photodiode Photodiode Photodiode
enablesthepositioningofthelight-sensitiveareaofeachpixelmuchfurtherforward.this
meansthateachindividualpixelcancapturelightfromalldirectionsandlargeanglesof
Pixel Pixel Pixel incidence.anadditionalmicro-lensarraygathersevenmorelight.thankstotheintelligent
sensordesign,morespaceisalsoavailableforeachindividualpixel.theendresultof
thiscomplexsensordevelopmentisimpressivedynamicrangeandexcellentcontrast
rendition,whichensurenoise-freeandbrilliantimageresults.
WithsomecmoSsensors,raysofincominglightatlargeanglesofincidencecanfailtoreachthephotodiode
ofthecorrespondingpixelandreachonlytheadjacentpixel.ortheyareshadowedorreflectedonthewayto
thepixelwiththeeffectthattheoverallamountoflightreceivedbythepixelsislessthantheamountarriving
throughthemicrolenses. EaSiErFocUSiNG Fastandsimplefocusingisalsoofferedbythenew‘liveViewFocusPeaking’function.it
automaticallyhighlightsallcontoursinthefocusedimageinred.thislinedisplayindicates
whenasubjectissharplyfocusedorwhetherafocusingadjustmentshouldbeapplied.
incominglight inadditiontoliveViewZoomandclassicfocusingwiththerangefinder,thisgivesusersa
1
third,alternativeoptionforprecisefocusing.

microlens microlens microlens

  ensor architecture of the 
S
Leica Max 24 MP sensor
colourfilter colourfilter colourfilter
(schematicdiagram)

1m icrolensdesignwith 2
normalradius. Photodiode Photodiode Photodiode
2r educeddistance
b etweenthecolourfilter
andthephotodiode. Pixel Pixel Pixel

inthecaseoftheleicamax24mPsensor,andincontrasttostandardcmoSsensors,evenlightrayswithlarge
anglesofincidence,e.g.fromwide-anglelensesorlargeapertures,arecapturedpreciselybythephotodiodesof
thesensor.thisisenabledbythespecialmicrolensdesignandthesmallerdistancebetweenthecolourfilterand
photodiode,whichallowsmorelighttoenterthesystem,andensuresthatitfallsmoredirectlyontherespective
photodiodes.

lENSESWitH theextremelyhigh-performanceimagesensorofthenewleicamdemandsaparticularly
SiX-BitcodiNG highspatialresolutionthatis,aboveall,offeredbythelatestm-lenses.theexcellent
(notillustrated) correctionofopticalaberrationsandthehighresolutionmakethemallthemoresuitable
fordigitaluse.currentm-lensesaresuppliedwithsix-bitcodingonthebayonetmount,
whichisscannedopticallybytheleicamassoonasthelensismounted.ifrequired,
theleicamcancompensateforextremelylowsystem-inherentvignettingeffectsonthe
basisofthiscodedinformation.inaddition,thelenstypeisrecordedintheExifdataof
theimagefilesand,whenusingmodernflashunitsliketheleicaSF58,thereflectoris
imageprocessingatmaximumspeed theleicamax24mPsensorwithintelligent automaticallyadjustedtomatchthefocallengthofthelensattached.onrequest,leica’s
withtheleicamaestroprocessor. sensordesignforbrilliantimageresults customercaredepartmentcanretrofitsix-bitcodingtothemountsofexistingm-lenses.

 40 i lEicam  lEicam i 41

 LEICA REPORTAGE
Country life – far from idyllic.

Many city-dwelling Kyrgyz keep a small piece of land in the surrounding rural areas for growing crops or raising cattle
as an additional source of income or subsistence farming. As means of transport – with the exception of pack ani-
mals – are rather rare in Kyrgyzstan, it was hardly surprising that a Kyrgyz family in Bishkek approached Jean Gaumy
and his team to ask for a lift out into the country. This turned out to be an excellent opportunity to find out more
about rural life in Kyrgyzstan first hand. With all their baggage, the whole family along with some of their friends set
out with Gaumy on the way to their countryside home several miles out of the capital. Not a traditional yurt, but a
modest wooden cabin. Life in the country in Kyrgyzstan is simple. Most of the work is done by hand, and everyone
lends a hand when it’s time to bring in the hay or harvest potatoes. At mealtimes, young and old gather around a
long table to enjoy local dishes such as ‘qurut’ – a kind of cheese usually made from drained sour sheep’s milk.
‘Qurut’ is a typical snack in central Asia that the Kyrgyz like to serve rolled into small balls.
Top: The region around Bokonbayevo, on the southern shores of the mountain lake Issyk Kul.
Bottom: A break from the hard work and a typical Kyrgyz snack of homemade ‘qurut’ cheese.

42 I LEICA REPORTAGE
LEICA
M-E

Hunting meet at the 100th anniversary festivities in Bokonbayevo.

The Leica Reportage continues on page 52: Feathered hunting aids.
 lEica M-E
thequintessenceofrangefinderphotography.

leicam-E,full-sizeview,inanthracite-greypaint. leicam-E,full-sizeview.

Withtheintroductionoftherangefindersystemin1954,leicamfilmcamerasbecame,formanyphotographers,
theperfecttoolsforcapturingthefascinationofamoment-discreetly,silentlyandwithouthesitation.Naturally, 1 tHEESSENcEoF 4 claSSicm-dESiGN
inuncompromisingquality.thefirstdigitalm-camerasbegananewchapterinthissuccessstory.today,itisthe
raNGEFiNdErPHotoGraPHY 5 SilENt,diScrEEt,comPact
leicam-Ethatcontinuesthestory,togetherwiththeleicamandtheleicammonochrom.However,itisthe
2 mFormESSSUcHEr 6 coNcENtratioNoNESSENtialS
leicam-Einparticularthatembodiesthem-Systemphilosophyinitspurestform:thecameraconcentrates
exclusivelyonessentialphotographicfunctions,ensuringsimpleandintuitiveoperation.atthesametime,itisa 3 UNcomPromiSiNGimaGEQUalitY
partofthemostcompactfull-formatcamerasystemavailableandenjoysaccesstolensesacknowledgedasthe
bestintheworld.acameradesignedtoallowtheworldtodiscoverthefascinationofm-Photography. discoverthesheerfascinationofrangefinderphotographyatwww.m-e.leica-camera.com

 46 i lEicam-E  lEicam-E i 47

 lEica M-E
thefascinationoftherangefinder.
leicam-E,full-sizeview,inanthracite-greypaint.
1 tHEESSENcE leicacameraswerethefirsteversuccessful35mmcameras.anhomagetothistradition,
oFraNGEFiNdEr thedigitalleicam-Efeaturesasensorwiththecapabilityofpreciselyreproducingthefull
PHotoGraPHY 35mmframeformatof24×36mm.thankstothecompactconstructionoftherangefinder
system,itisthesmallestfull-formatsystemcameraofalltime.theleicam-Bayonetalsohas
animpressive,longhistory.Firstconstructedin1954,itstillensuresfullsystemcompatibility
today,whichmeansthatalmostallm-lenseseverbuiltcanbeusedwiththedigitalleicam-E.
and,aswithallotherm-cameras,theleicam-Econcentratespurelyonphotographicfunc-
tions.manualfocusingbasedonthecombinedviewfinderandrangefinderprincipleandan
automaticaperturepriorityexposuremodeensurefullphotographiccreativefreedom.
 48 i lEicam-E
2 mFor the‘m’inthenameoftheleicam-Ealsostandsforaratherspecialkindofphotography.
m ESSSUcHEr Because,incontrasttoSlrphotography,wherefocusingtakesplacethroughthelens,the
rangefinder(messsucherinGerman)baselineoftheleicamremainsthesame,regardless
ofthelensinuse.thisisthereasonwhyitsfocusingprecisionisimmenselysuperiortothat
ofSlrcamerasforshortfocallengths.thehigh-contrastrangefinderrectangleinthecentre
oftheviewfinderguaranteesfast,preciseandcrystal-clearfocusing,evenunderparticularly
adverselightingconditions.mirrorslapandrelatedshakeeffectsincapturedimagesare
problemsneverencounteredbym-Photographers.
3 UNcomPromiSiNG theleicam-Efeaturesan18-megapixelhigh-resolutionccdsensorinfull35mmformat.a
imaGEQUalitY characteristicpropertyofccdsensorsistheirparticularlyhighsensitivitytolight.thesensor
isperfectlyattunedtoitsroleintheverycompactm-Systemandthesuperiorperformance
ofm-lenses.thespeciallayoutofthemicrolensmakesittolerantofobliquelightrays
impingingonitssurface,andguaranteesuniformexposureandmaximumsharpnessfrom
cornertocornerineveryimage.theoptimisedsignaltonoiseratioofthesensorreducesthe
needfordigitalpost-processingandensuresthatimagespossessaparticularlynaturalvisual
impact.
4 claSSic itisobviousatfirstglancethattheleicam-Eisamemberoftheleicam-Systemfami-
m-dESiGN ly.distinctivelyfunctionalstylinglendsthecameraanabsolutelytimelesscharacter.the
quintessenceofthem-Systemisalsoexpressedbyitsdesign.thetopandbaseplatesare
discreetlyandunobtrusivelyfinishedinanthracite-greypaint.thedesignofitsbodyisintense-
lyfocusedandexpressesclarity,anditsleathertrimofferssuperiorgrip.thefamiliar,almost
inaudiblemechanicalsignaturesound,greatlyappreciatedbymanyloversofleicacameras,
remainsasareminderthatthism,too,isamasterpieceofunparalleledcraftsmanship.
5 SilENt,diScrEEt, discretionandunobtrusivenessareparticularstrengthsofthem-System.Forinstance,the
comPact shutteractionoftheleicam-Eisextremelyquiet.asophisticated,almostnoiselessmotor/
gear-trainsystemtensionstheshutter–indiscreetmodeonlyafterthecameraisreturned
toitshidingplace,forinstanceunderajacket,andthephotographer’sfingeristakenfrom
thereleasebutton.atthesametime,thecombinationofcameraandlensismorecompact
thananyotherfull-formatcamerasystem:areasonwhym-Photographersoftengounnoticed
andsimplybecomeapartofthescene.
6 coNcENtratioN Everythingdevelopedintheevolutionaryprocessoftheleicam-Systemsatisfiesagenuine
oNESSENtialS photographicneed.thisalsoappliestotheleicam-E:adigitalrangefindercamerathat
consciouslydeclinestooffereverythingthatistechnicallypossible,butratherlimitsitselfto
whatisessentialtophotography.theseessentialsincludethetypicalrapidmanualfocusing
withtheviewfinder/rangefinderandthefocusingringofthelens,butalsotheoptionof
selectingautomaticallydeterminedormanuallysetshutterspeeds.
 lEicam-E i 49
 LEICA M-E
Technical details.
MICRO-LENS LAYOUT
1 Pixel diagram
2 Centered micro lens in the middle of the sensor
3 Laterally displaced micro lens at the edge of the sensor
LENS WITH  The extremely high-performance image sensor of the Leica M-E demands a particularly high
6-BIT CODING spatial resolution that is, above all, offered by the latest M-Lenses. The excellent correction
(not illustrated) of optical aberrations and the high resolution make them all the more suitable for digital use.
The current M-Lenses are supplied with 6-bit coding on the bayonet mount that is scanned
optically by the Leica M as soon as the lens is mounted. If required, the Leica M-E can com-
pensate for the extremely low system-inherent vignetting effects on the basis of this coded
information. In addition, the lens type is recorded in the Exif data of the image files and, when
using modern flash units like the Leica SF 58, the reflector is automatically adjusted to match
the focal length of the lens attached. Typically Leica: on request, Customer Care can retrofit
6-bit coding to the mounts of existing M-Lenses.
INCREASED  Micro lenses are employed to ensure that more light reaches each individual pixel of the sen-
SENSITIVITY sor. As a consequence of the extremely compact design of Leica M-E cameras, rays of light
THROUGH  at the edges of the image impinge obliquely on the sensor and would be only inadequately
MICRO-LENS  captured by conventional micro lenses. Therefore, the image sensor of the M-E employs even
TECHNOLOGY more advanced and meticulously designed micro lenses with a low refractive index. The micro
lenses at the sensor edges are laterally displaced towards the image center to precisely match
the characteristics of M-Lenses. This optimized micro-lens design, based on many years of
experience, captures and concentrates even oblique rays of light on the sensor and thus re-
liably prevents image brightness fall-off at the edges of the image. This ensures that all existing
Leica M-Lenses also maintain their full performance when used for digital photography.
50 I LEICA M-E
WORKFLOW SOFTWARE IS INCLUDED
Leica M-E customers can download the digital workflow solution
Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4 free of charge.
WORKFLOW  Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4 is a professional workflow solution for Apple Mac® OS X,
INCLUSIVE Microsoft Windows® Vista, and Microsoft® Windows 7*. The software is available as a free
online download for all Leica M-E customers. It offers a wide range of functions for the manage-
ment, processing, and exporting of digital images. The latest release now enables the creation
of simple print layouts, slide shows, and photo books. In addition, many of its functions, inclu-
ding its processing speed, have been improved. If the images from the M-E are saved as raw
data in the standardized and future-proof Adobe® Digital Negative Format (DNG), Adobe®
Photoshop® Lightroom® 4, with its sophisticated and precise processing options, guarantees
direct and extremely high-quality image processing with maximized image quality.
*As Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4 no longer supports Windows® XP, XP users may download version 3.6 online.
TONAL VALUE The Leica M-E can display a precise RGB tonal value histogram of the captured image after
HISTOGRAM each shot, and offer optional integration of the histogram in the automatic image view display.
(not illustrated) The clipping warning display shows the over- and under-exposed zones, and warns the photo-
grapher of potentially unusable images. The histogram is recalculated every time a new part of
the image is viewed, thus enabling a precise quality assessment of small areas and even the
finest image details.
LEICA M-E I 51
 LEICA REPORTAGE
Feathered hunting aids.

The region around the Kyrgyz town of Bokonbayevo, on the southern shores of the mountain lake Issyk Kul, is con-
sidered to be the centre of the ancient art of falconry, or hunting with birds of prey. During their visit to the town on
the 100th anniversary of its founding, Jean Gaumy and his team found themselves in the midst of an event dedicated
to this form of hunting, which was once widespread in central Asia and considered to be a fine art. Falconers from
every corner of Kyrgyzstan have travelled here with their birds. Many of the men wear traditional dress and the typical
Kyrgyz ‘kalpak’, a felt hat. They proudly display their eagles, hawks, and buzzards on leather-gloved fists. Two days
before the actual contest, Gaumy enjoyed a rare opportunity to watch the falconers preparing and training their
birds for the contest. In one training method, a rider drags a dead rabbit on a rope behind his horse. At precisely
the right moment, the raptor is thrown onto the prey by the falconer and must seize it in its talons as quickly as
possible. At least that is the idea.
A participant at the hunting meet with his eagle.

52 I LEICA REPORTAGE
LEICA
M Monochrom

Every Sunday, At-Bashy is the scene of a big cattle market.

The Leica Reportage continues on page 64: Haggling, Kyrgyz-Style.
 lEica M MOnOChROM
thefascinationofmonochromephotographyentersthedigitalage.

leicammonochrom,full-sizeview,blackchromefinish. leicammonochrom,full-sizeview.

1 UNcomPromiSiNGimaGEQUalitY   6  c
  omPlEtEcoNtroloFallimaGEParamEtErS

2 comPatiBilitYaSamattEroFPriNciPlE   7 FUllFramE24×36–WitHoUtcomPromiSE

theleicammonochromperpetuatesthetraditionofitslegendaryfilmpredecessorsthatmadehistorywiththeir 3 ENdUriNGPErFormaNcEaNdValUE   8 NEWSENSor

numerousgroundbreakinginnovations:itistheworld’sfirst35mmdigitalcameraexclusivelyforblack-and-white 4 SilENcEaNddiScrEtioN   9 iNtUitiVEcoNtrolS
photography.itdoesmorethantransformanalogueblack-and-whitephotographyintodigital:itsetsanewbench-
5 SPEEdaNdFlEXiBilitY 10    FUlliNFormatioNattHEPUSHoFaBUttoN
markinstate-of-the-artphotographictechnology.thankstoitsfull-formatsensorandtheabsenceofcolourfilters,
itachievesuniqueimageresultswithoutstandingclarityandunmatcheddynamics.thatmakesittheperfectcamera
forcontemporaryfine-artphotography,andallwhoshareafascinationforblackandwhite. discoverthefascinationoftheleicammonochromatwww.m-monochrom.leica-camera.com

 56 i lEicammoNocHrom  lEicammoNocHrom i 57

 lEica M MOnOChROM
Sharpnessredefined.
leicammonochrom,full-sizeview,blackchromefinish.
atfirstglance,theleicammonochromisalmostindistinguishablefromotherm-cameras.
itstopplate,leathertrimandcarryingstrapinperfectmattblackmaintainadiscreetly
lowprofile.thecameratypeisengravedunobtrusivelyonitsaccessoryshoe.and,justlike
everyotherm-camera,thedesignoftheleicammonochromconcentratespurelyonthe
essentialphotographicfunctions.itsmanualfocusing,basedonthecombinedviewfinder
andrangefinderconceptandaperturepriorityexposuremode,isanaidtophotographers
ratherthanimposingundesiredlimitationsontheircreativefreedom.incombinationwith
thelcdmonitoronthebackofthebody,thesimpleandintuitivemenunavigation,managed
byonlyafewcontrolelements,ensuresrapidaccesstoallthecamerafunctions.
 58 i lEicammoNocHrom
1 UNcomPromiSiNG themmonochromfeaturesanewfull-frame,35mmformatsensordevelopedespeciallyfor
imaGEQUalitY black-and-whitephotography.incontrasttoconventionalsensors,ithasnoneedforcolour
filtersforindividualpixels,andthereforerequiresnointerpolationforthecalculationoflumi-
nancevalues.thismeansthatrawdataandevenJPEGimagefilesfromthemmonochrom
canbeuseddirectlyandwithoutanyfurtherprocessing.thisenablesphotographerstocap-
tureimageswithgreaterbrilliance,superiorsharpnessandcontrastresolutionthatcanequal
thequalityofmediumformat.duetotheirlowcompressionrate,JPEGfilesfromthecamera
alsosatisfyprofessionaldemands.
2 comPatiBilitY themmonochromoffersaccesstothecompleterangeofleicam-lenses,longsincerecog-
aSamattEroF nisedasbeingthebestintheworld.thefirstm-camerawasbuiltin1954,andthesystemhas
PriNciPlE beencontinuouslydevelopedandimprovedeversince.thehigh-resolution,full-formatimage
sensorfullyexploitstheperformanceofthelensesfromcornertocornerineveryimage.
3 ENdUriNG itisnotrareforaleicatobecomeitsowner’slifelongcompanion.thisappliesparticularlyto
PErFormaNcE thedigitalleicammonochrom:itstopandbaseplatesaremachinedfromsolidbrass.itsfull-
aNdValUE metalhousingismanufacturedinonepiecefromhigh-strengthmagnesiumalloy,andoffers
perfectprotectionforitspreciousinnermechanisms.thedigitalcomponentsandshutter
assemblyofthemmonochromaresimilarlyconstructedwithalifetimeofenduranceinmind.
inshort:anmmonochromisalong-terminvestment.
4 SilENcEaNd discretionandunobtrusivenessareparticularstrengthsofthem-System.theshutterofthe
diScrEtioN mmonochromisalsoextremelyquiet.theverylownoiselevelwhencockingtheshutteris
ensuredbyasophisticatedmotorgearingsystem.indiscreetmode,theshutterisonlycocked
afterthephotographer’sfingeristakenfromtheshutterreleasebutton,when,forinstance,the
cameraisconcealedunderajacket.thenagain,whenlongerexposuretimesrequiringasteady
camerastanceareessential,evenslightpressureontheshutterreleasebuttonin‘soft’release
modeissufficient.atthesametime,thecombinationofcameraandlensissignificantlymore
compactthananyotherfull-framecamerasystem:thiscontributestothefactthatm-Photog-
raphersfrequentlygounnoticedandoftensimplymeltintothebackground.
5 SPEEdaNd theleicammonochromadaptsflexiblytoitsintendeduse.itssensitivityrangeextendsfrom
FlEXiBilitY iSo320toiSo10000.atthesametime,verylowimagenoiseandfinestresolutionofdetailsin
shadowsandhighlightsareachievedthroughoutthesensitivityrange,evenatthehighestset-
tings:themmonochromdeliversrazor-sharpimageswiththefinestgrain,evenatiSo10000.
Verylowimagenoisecharacteristics,abrightviewfinder/rangefinder,low-vibrationshutter
releaseandfastlensesmakethemmonochromtheperfectcameraforavailable-lightphotog-
raphy.
6 comPlEtE theleicammonochromaidsphotographerswithautomaticfunctionswheneverrequired,
coNtroloF butitneverdictateshowtoshoot.dependingonthelightingsituation,theautomaticiSo
allimaGE shiftfunctionincreasesthesensitivityofthecameraassoonasadefinedshutterspeedisex-
ParamEtErS ceeded.atthesametime,italsolimitstheshifttoamaximumvaluesetbythephotographer.
thismeansthatcorrectexposurewithoutcamerashakeandthelowestpossiblesensitivity
isalwaysavailabletoguaranteethebestpossibleimagequalityinallsituations.inaddition,
themmonochromalsooffersautomaticexposurebracketingwithauser-selectablenumber
ofshotsandincrementalexposurevalues.thisfunctionensuresthatevenhigh-contrastsub-
jectsarecapturedperfectly.
 lEicammoNocHrom i 59
 l Eica M MOnOChROM
theultimateinrangefinderprecisionmeetscutting-edgedigitaltechnology.
leicammonochrom,full-sizeview.
theleicammonochromembodiestheheritageandamassedexperienceofmorethanfive
decadesofthem-System.atthesametime,itisadigitalsystemcameraatthecuttingedge
ofcontemporarytechnology.Forleicadesigners,thephotographicimagehasalwaysbeen
theirprimeconcern–nomatterwhetherfilmordigital,inblack-and-whiteorincolour.the
combinationofanextremelyefficientblackandwhiteimagesensor,thelatestdigitalcompo-
nentsandtheclassicviewfinder/rangefinderprinciple,consistentlyoptimisedovermany
years,maketheleicammonochromabsolutelyunique.
 60 i lEicammoNocHrom
7 FUllFramE theccdimagesensorspecificallydesignedanddevelopedfortheleicammonochromoffers
24×36–WitHoUt full35mmfilmformatwithoutcompromise.allm-lensesmountedonthemmonochromoffer
comPromiSE theangleofviewtheyhadwhenusingfilmandarethereforeusedtooptimumeffect.inother
words:alltheoutstandingcharacteristicsofthelensesarenowfullymaintainedfordigital
photography,too.Becauseofitshighresolutionandsuperiorimagequality,themmonochrom
hastheabilitytofullyexploittheenormouspotentialofm-lenses.
8 NEWSENSor Whenleicacreatedthemmonochrom,itwasn’tamatterofmodifyingthelensestomatchthe
imagesensor,butrathertheotherwayaround:themonochromesensorwasperfectlyattuned
toitsroleinthecompactm-System,andthesuperiorperformanceofm-lenses,duringits
development.theomissionofthecolourfiltersignificantlyincreasesthebasicsensitivityof
eachindividualpixel.italsomeansthatthemmonochromcapturesimageswithsignificantly
greatercontrastandclarityatalliSosettings.thespeciallayoutofthemicrolensesfoundonly
inthedigitalm-camerasensormakesittolerantofobliquelightraysimpingingonitssurface,
andguaranteesuniformexposureandextremesharpnessfromcornertocornerineveryimage.
therefore,futurelensescanbedesignedandoptimisedwithuncompromisingdedicationto
achievebothhighperformanceandcompactconstruction.aspecialglasssensorcoveren-
suresthesuppressionofinfraredlight.theintentionaldecisiontodispensewithamoiréfilter,a
causeofimagedeteriorationthroughlossofresolution,ensuresmaximumresolutionofdetails.
9 i NtUitiVE thekeycontrolelementofthemmonochromisanintuitivefour-wayswitchanddialcom-
coNtrolS binationusedinconjunctionwiththelargelcdscreenontheback.Settingthesensitivity
requiresonlycontinuedpressureontheiSobuttonwhilesimultaneouslyturningthedialto
selecttherequiredsetting.allotherfunctionsimportantforeverydaysituationsarequickly
andeasilyaccessiblebypressingthe‘Set’button:theseincludeimage-datacompression,
resolution,exposurecorrection,exposurebracketingandprogrammableuserprofiles.User
profilescanbeprogrammedwithanycameraandshootingsettings,storedunderaspecific
nameandaccessedquicklywheneverrequiredforaparticularsituation.allotherfunctions,
fromautomaticlensrecognitionandsix-bitlens-mountcodingtosensorcleaning,areeasyto
findintheclearlylaid-outmaincameramenu.
10 FUlliNFormatioN Whenthe‘info’buttonispressedinshootingmode,themonitoronthebackofthecamera
attHEPUSHoFa displaystheprecisechargelevelofthebattery,theremainingcapacityonthememorycard
BUttoN andthemostimportantbasicshootingsettings,forexampletheshutterspeed.inreviewmode,
userscantogglebetweenanimage-onlyview,withazoomoptionuptosingle-pixelleveloper-
atedbyturningthedial,andotherimageinformation.thisincludes,forinstance,information
onthesensitivitysetting,theshutterspeedandaprecisehistogramdisplay.
 lEicammoNocHrom i 61
 LEICA M MONOCHROM
Technical details.
COLOUR AND MONOCHROME SENSORS – A COMPARISON
Colour filter
Sensor pixel
To allow an image sensor to ‘see in colour’, colour filters in the basic colours – red, green and blue – are allocated to individual pixels. How-
ever, before a visible image can be created, the colour information recorded by neighbouring pixels must be combined – an additive process
that naturally reduces the native sharpness.
Sensor pixel
The sensor of the Leica M Monochrom does not see colours. As a result, each individual pixel records true luminance values from which a
truly monochrome image, characterised by a native and incomparable sharpness, can be created without any additional processing.
MONOCHROME With a full native resolution of 18 megapixels, the Leica M Monochrom delivers 100 % sharper images than
SENSOR  a colour sensor. As its sensor does not ‘see’ colours, every single pixel records true luminance values. 
This means that the M Monochrom delivers a ‘true’ black-and-white image straight from the sensor. The
combination of the brilliant imaging qualities of Leica lenses and perfect harmonisation of the sensor with
the M-System results in images with outstanding sharpness and natural brilliance, without the need for
sharpening in post-processing software. The result is an incomparable image quality that would normally 
be expected only from a medium-format camera.
The impressive quality of the native raw data from the M Monochrom not only enables images to be used
directly, but also allows them to be stored in JPEG format with identical resolution. Thanks to the choice 
of a low compression rate, the quality of the JPEG files is even comparable with that of professionally
processed TIFF files.
RAW DATA  The Leica M Monochrom more than satisfies the expectations of discerning users and fine-art photog-
HISTOGRAM raphers, with a raw data histogram for the precise assessment of tonal values. The difference compared to
(not illustrated) conventional histograms is that it displays original, unprocessed and unmodified raw data. The combin­
ation of this, with a configurable clipping display in particular, allows precise correction or optimisation
of exposures. The subdivision of the raw data histogram into stops enables dedicated black-and-white
photographers to employ a digital interpretation of the zone system.
USEFUL EFFECTS With the Leica M Monochrom, photographers can apply characteristic toning effects from analogue black-
(not illustrated) and-white photography, such as sepia, cold or selenium toning to their images, at the touch of a button.
The user saves the image in JPEG format and selects the desired toning effect – simply and conveniently,
and without the need for post-processing.
62 I LEICA M MONOCHROM
BLACK-AND-WHITE WORKFLOW
Leica M Monochrom customers can take advan-
tage of a free download of the digital workflow
solution Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4.
M Monochrom customers are also entitled to
a free download of the Nik Software Silver
Efex Pro™ software package.
BLACK-AND-WHITE Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4 is a professional workflow solution for Apple Mac® OS X, Microsoft
WORKFLOW Windows® Vista and Microsoft Windows 7*. The software is available as an online download for all new
Leica M Monochrom customers, after online camera registration. It offers a wide range of functions for
the management, processing and exporting of digital images. The latest release now enables the creation 
of simple print layouts, slide shows and photo books. In addition, many of its functions, including its
processing speed, have been improved. If the images from the M Monochrom are saved as raw data in the
standardised and future-proof Adobe® Digital Negative Format (DNG), Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4,
with its sophisticated and precise processing options, guarantees direct and extremely high-quality image
processing with maximum image quality. 
In addition to this, the package also includes a plug-in version of the Nik Silver Efex Pro™ software, con- 
sidered to be the most powerful tool for the creation of high-quality digital black-and-white images. For
pictures that perfectly recreate the look of analogue exposures, Silver Efex Pro™ offers selective control of
tonal values and contrast and an extensive collection of profiles for the simulation of black-and-white film
types, grain structures and much more.
LENSES WITH  The high-performance image sensor of the M Monochrom demands a particularly high spatial resolution
SIX-BIT CODING that is, above all, offered by the latest M-Lenses. The excellent correction of optical aberrations and high
(not illustrated) resolution makes them all the more suitable for digital use. The current M-Lenses are supplied with a six-bit
code on the bayonet mount that is scanned optically by the M Monochrom as soon as the lens is mounted.
If required, the M Monochrom can compensate for extremely minor, system-inherent vignetting effects on
the basis of this coded information. In addition, the lens type is recorded in the Exif data of the image files
and, when using the latest flash units such as the Leica SF 58, automatically adjusts the reflector to match
the focal length of the lens attached. In most cases, Leica Customer Care can, on request, retrofit six-bit
coding to the mounts of existing M-Lenses.
*As Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 4 no longer supports Windows® XP, Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 3.6 is also available as a free
download for XP users.
 LEICA REPORTAGE
Haggling, Kyrgyz-Style.

Even today, big and seemingly archaic cattle markets are still a common sight in many Kyrgyz towns and cities.
Neither quiet nor squeamish, the dealers and buyers haggle at the tops of their voices – above all over goats, sheep,
pigs, horses, cattle, and yaks. Today more than ever, cattle-breeding plays an important role in Kyrgyzstan. Because,
following the collapse of the Soviet Union and their withdrawal from the country, many non-agricultural jobs simply
disappeared. In addition to this, the mountainous areas of Kyrgyzstan are much more suitable for grazing than for
the production of cash crops. Since gaining their independence, increasing numbers of Kyrgyz attempt to secure
an existence, or at least earn a little on the side, with animal husbandry. Of equal importance is that cattle in par-
ticular are seen as a safe investment in times of economic insecurity. So the intensity of the haggling at Kyrgyz
cattle markets is by no means surprising. And it takes time. Haggling over a single beast can take at least 10 to 15
minutes. In contrast to Western customs, the process here begins with a handshake. While dealers and buyers
argue over the price, they maintain a strong grip on each others’ hands and begin to shake them theatrically. The
handshaking stops as soon as the price is settled to the satisfaction of both parties, and the bargain is sealed.
Top: At a cattle market near Osh. Bottom: Goats in Kyrgyzstan can also be pretty stubborn.

LEICA REPORTAGE I 65
LEICA
M7/MP

Private house in Naryn, where Kyrgyz felt carpets known as ‘shyrdaks’ are made.
The Leica Reportage continues on page 74: An ancient craft with a long tradition.
 l Eica M7
thecrowninggloryofclassicleicamphotography.

classicsareworksthathaveacuriousrelationshipwiththepresent.theyareneverreformulatedwithrespectto
theiressentialcharacter,butratherreinterpretedonthebasisofachangedworld.theleicam7filmcamerais
justsuchaclassic.likeeveryotherleicam-camera,them7isprimarilyamechanicalandopticalprecisionin-
strument.However,becauseoftheintelligentuseofthelatestelectronics,itissimultaneouslythemostversatile
andmostpreciseleicamfilmcameraeverbuilt.Forexample,leicam7photographerscanselectacontinuously
variableaperturepriorityexposuremode–leavingthephotographerfreetoconcentrateonthecreativeessen-
tialsoffocusingandframingthesubject.

leicam7,full-sizeview;availableinsilverchromeandblackchrome. leicam7,full-sizeview.

ENHaNcEd thelegendaryleicahorizontalclothfocalplaneshutterincorporatedinallpreviousm-Seriesfilmcameras aUtomatic asanalternativetothefamiliarmanualexposuremeteringofotherm-cameras–

PrEciSioNPlUS wasfundamentallyrevisedforthem7.it’sbarelyaudiblewhencontrollingtheshutterspeedselectronically, EXPoSUrE which,ofcourse,isstillanoptionwiththem7–thecameraoffersaconvenient,
maNUalBacKUP andconstitutesanessentialelementoftheaperturepriorityexposuresystem.thecommonlyusedshutter altErNatiVES continuouslyvariableaperturepriorityexposuremodewithaElockthatisacti-
speedsof1/60secand1/125secfunctionwithoutbatterypower. vatedbylightlydepressingtheshutterrelease.

crEatiVE incombinationwithaspecialdedicatedflashunit,them7alsoofferssecond-curtainflashsynchronisation. rEadYtoGo theoN/oFFswitch,ergonomicallylocateddirectlynexttotheshutterrelease,

FlaSHoPtioNS theadvantage:amorenaturallooktocapturedimagesofmovingsubjectsincludingtimeexposureswith ...orStoW hastwoimportantfunctions:firstly,itactivatestheelectronicsoftheleicam7
fill-inflash.inadditiontothestandardsynchronisationspeedof1/50sec,them7alsosynchronises and,secondly,itlockstheshutterreleasewhenthecameraisturnedoff.
ataspeedofupto1/1000secwhenusedincombinationwithcertainSca-dedicatedmetzflashunits.

aVoidiNG theleicam7offersphotographersthechoiceofsettingthefilmspeed(iSo)manuallyorbyusingthe
iNcorrEct contactlessautomaticfilm-speeddetectionbuiltintothecamerabody(dXcoding).thiseffectivelyavoids
EXPoSUrES incorrectexposuresduetowronglysetiSofilmspeeds.asafurtheroption,inautomaticexposuremode,
photographerscaninputexposurecorrectionsofupto±2stops.
PictUrE asystemuniquetoleicarangefindercamerasclearlydisplaysallrelevantinfor-
ParamEtErS mationinthebrilliantviewfinderoftheleicam7:theshutterspeeddetermined
ataGlaNcE bytheaperturepriorityexposuresystem,over-andunderexposurevaluesin
manualmeteringmode,aflash-readysignalwhenaflashunitisattachedand
readytofire,andawarningiconwhenthecamerabatteriesarelow.

 68 i lEicam7  lEicam7 i 69

 l Eica MP
amasterpieceofmechanicalprecision.

itisnoteworthytomentionthateveninthisincreasinglyelectronicage,theleicamPisapurelymechanicalcamera
thattransformstheactofcapturingcompellingimagesintosomethingindescribablyexcitingandsensual.more
than80yearsofexperienceandexpertiseinthedesignandconstructionofexclusivelymechanicalrangefinder
camerashasculminatedinthecurrentleicamP.thistimelessclassicembodiestheessenceoffinemechanical
precision.itisaveritablemasterpiecepossessinganinstinctiveandemotionalqualitythatcaptivatesanyphotog-
rapherattheveryfirsttouch.inthiseraofacceleratingtransition,theleicamPstandssupremeasacamerafora
lifetime.

leicamP,full-sizeview;availableinsilverchromeandblackpaintfinish. leicamP,full-sizeview.

EmPoWEriNG Bydefinition,photographyiswritingwithlight.Butleicam-Photographymeanssomethingmore–the
abilitytocreateimagesthatarticulatearecognizableanddistinctivecharacterevenwiththebaremini-
mumofavailablelight.theleicamPempowersthephotographertomastereventhemostdifficultlighting
situations,becausethecameranevertriestothinkonitsown.itsselectivettlmeteringsystemmerely
providespreciseandcomprehensibledatatosupportphotographersintheirselectionoftheidealexpo-
sureparameters,ensuringcompletecreativecontrol.
ENdUriNG theleicamPisbuiltforlonglifeandlastingvalue.thisisguaranteedbyleica’scommitmenttousingonly
thefinestmaterialsandthehighestprecisionmanufacturingtechniques.timeandtimeagain,theleica
mPhasprovenitsrobustnessanddependabilityunderthemostadverseconditions.ithasbeenusedin
sub-freezingenvironmentswherecamerasrelyingonbatteriescannotfunctionreliably—allwhilstde-
liveringanumberofshutterreleasecyclesthatothercamerasimplycouldnotmatch.thisunparalleled
qualityisalsotheunderlyingreasonwhyleicaispreparedtoofferanextraordinarilylongwarrantyperiod
offiveyearsforregistereduserswhopurchasetheircameraatanauthorisedleicadealer.
maXimUm theconstructionoftheleicamPissouncompromisingthatitisalwaysdependable.itsincrediblystrong
rEliaBiltY andruggedbodywillwithstandtheworstconditionswithoutawhimper.allitscrucialcontrolelementsare
craftedexclusivelyinmetal.Yes,themPdependsontheskillsoftheuser–butitcertainlydoesn’tdepend
onbatteries.theyareneededsolelyformetering.indeed,anyoneskilledinestimatingshutterspeedsand
aperturescancompletelyignoretheelectronics.
iNdiVidUaliSm theleicamPisavailableintwodifferentbodyfinishes:silverchromeandblackpaint.afteryearsofhard
tHatimProVES use,whenalittlebrassbeginstoshowthroughtheblackorsilveratthecornersandedges,it’sasure
WitHaGE signtosavvyphotographersthatthecameraanditsownerhavesharedmanymemorableexperiences.
UNdErStatEd itiswellknownthatmostprofessionalsjustlovetheredleicadotontheircameras,butforthesakeof
maintainingalowprofile,manymaskthetell-taledotwithtape.thisiswhytheleicamPwasmanufac-
turedwithoutthisiconicemblemrightfromthestart.ofcourse,knowledgeableownersandaficionados
canidentifyaleicaanywherewithouttheneedforspecialbranding.theleicainscriptiononthetopplate
isidentificationenough.

 70 i lEicamP  lEicamP i 71

 l Eica À LA CARTE
Handcraftedandoneofakind.

lEatHErtrimm7/mP

Performance,precisionandreliability–theseareattributesthatallleicam-camerashaveincommon.Neverthe-
less,thedesignofm7andmPfilmcamerascanbechangedinavarietyofuniquewaystoexpressyourindividual
tastes.Eventechnicaldetailscanbemodifiedtomatchanyphotographer’spersonaluseprofile.thisishowafully
personalisedleicam-cameraisborn.achoiceofthefinestmaterials*,differentstylesandcolours,andamultitude
ofvariableelementsandfunctionaldetailsopenupalmostendlesscreativeopportunities–fromanunobtrusive m7 mP Vulcanite lizardstyleembossed
leather,black
Saddleleather,black ostrichstyleembossed
leather,black
professionalstreet-shooter’stooltoanextravagantandeye-catchinglifestyleicon.theindividualcomponentsare
assembledbyhand.Uptoandincludingfinalqualitycontrol,eachàlacarteleicam7ormPiscustom-crafted
accordingtotheprecisespecificationsofeachindividualorder.

*allreal-leatheroptionsofferedhereareexclusivelypremium-qualityfull-graincowhides.realleatherisnotemployedforthestandardtrimofleicam7andleicamPmodels,orfor Nappaleather,racing calfleather,smooth,blue calfleather,smooth, calfleather,smooth,red Naturally-tannedleather, ostrichstyleembossed

vulcanitetrimoptions. green mocha cognac leather,chestnut

FiNiSHESm7/mP ENGraViNG

Personalisedengraving,signature Personalisedengraving,signature

illustratedhere:leicamP,blackpaint. illustratedhere:leicamP,blackchrome. illustratedhere:leicamP,silverchrome.








illustratedhere:leicamP,blackpaint. illustratedhere:leicamP,blackchrome. illustratedhere:leicamP,silverchrome. Personalisedengraving,name Personalisedengraving,name

FUNctioNal Viewfinderframesandmagnificationcanbecustom-orderedtomeettherequirementsofthe diVErSitY morethan4,000differentconfigurationoptionsfulfileventhemostunusualwishes.

oPtioNS lensesyouprefer.theàlacarteprogramoffersachoiceofuniversalviewfindermagnifications: Visitwww.leica-a-la-carte.comtofindoutmoreaboutthewidevarietyofcombina-
thestandard0.72xversion,thewide-angleandeyeglasses-wearer’sversionwith0.58xmagnifi- tionoptions.
cation,andthetelephotoversionwith0.85x.

thechoiceofcontrolelementsallowsyoutotailorthecamerapreciselytoyourshooting aEStHEtic aselectionoftopplatecoloursandbodycoveringsinawiderangeoforganically

requirements,forexampletofavourruggednessorfasteroperation. oPtioNS tannedleathersinvarioustexturesandcoloursisavailabletocomplementthe
bodyfinish.camerabags,casesandcarryingstrapsarealsoavailableinmatching
leathers.and,lastbutnotleast,personalisedengravingintheformofsignatures,
monograms,graphicelements,orfamilycrestsmakeanyleicaatrulyuniqueand
unmistakableworkofart.

discoverourrangeofexclusiveleicaàlacarteaccessoriesonpage108.
0,58x 0,72x 0,85x

 72 i lEicaÀlacartE  lEicaÀlacartE i 73

 LEICA REPORTAGE
An ancient craft with a long tradition.

Naryn, the capital of Kyrgyzstan’s administrative province of the same name, is situated at an altitude of 2,000
metres above sea level. It is the last large city in Kyrgyzstan before reaching the border with China at the Torugat
Pass. The city is a familiar starting point for all travelers taking the pass route – and is also famous for its carpets.
It is said the best ‘shyrdaks’ are made in Naryn. These special, double-layered, felted-wool carpets with stitched
patterns are made completely by hand by local women. The ‘wet-felting’ technique they use is one of the world’s
most ancient textile working methods there is. Since time immemorial, shyrdaks have been used for carpeting
and insulating their yurts. The extreme natural temperature fluctuations that the wool in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan
is subjected to endow it with rather special qualities. The graphical, modern-looking patterns of the carpets are
predominantly modeled on animal and plant motifs from the natural world. Many families have their own traditional
patterns that are passed down from generation to generation. The simple beauty of these Shyrdaks stands in in-
tense contrast to the textile decorations or pictures that can be encountered, for example, in the city’s restaurants.
Top an bottom: In a restaurant in the provincial capital of Naryn.

LEICA Reportage I 75
M - SYSTEM
LENSES

The construction of traditional yurts to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the
town of Bokonbayevo. The Leica Reportage continues on page 86: Home is where the yurt is.
 l Eica nOCTILUX - M50mmf/0.95aSPH.
Kingofthenight.

hIGh-SPEED in2008,leicaproudlyannouncedthefastestasphericallensthe
worldhadeverseen:theremarkableleicaNoctilux-m50mmf/0.95

LEnSES aSPH.,areplacementforthelegendaryleicaNoctilux-m50mmf/1,
whichhadbeenahighlightoftheleicam-lensrangesince1975.
thecombinationofcutting-edgeopticalandmechanicaltechnol-
ogieshasmadeitpossibletoachieveamarkedimprovementinits
performancecomparedtoitsillustriouspredecessor.althoughits
dimensionsarealmostidentical,asignificantlyhigherspeedhas
beensuccessfullyattained.atfullaperture,itsextremelyshallow
depthoffieldallowsthephotographertocreatecompellingportraits
andscenicimpressionscharacterisedbyanincomparablynatural-
lookingplayofsharpnessandsoftness.Stopdownalittleandthe
lensdeliversoutstandingimagequalitycomparabletothatofthe
leicaSummilux-m50mmf/1.4aSPH.,thelensgenerallyconsid-
eredtobethereferencestandardforallothernormallenses.When
usedforavailablelightphotography,theNoctilux-mactuallyexceeds
theresolvingpowerofthehumaneye.theuseofafloatingelement
ensuresthatthislensprovidestopperformancedowntoitsclosest
focusingdistance.Vignettinganddistortionhavealsobeennoticeably
allviewsoflensesfull-size(unlessotherwiseindicated). improvedcomparedtothe50mmf/1.

inanabstractedform,the‘tunduk’,thecrowningpointofeveryKyrgyzyurt,isalsoakeyelementinthenationalflag.

 m-SYStEmlENSES i 79
 l Eica APO-SUMMICROn-M50mmf/2aSPH.
anythingbutastandardlens.

theenormousspeedofdevelopmentsinthefieldofdigitalphotographyinrecentyearshas
broughtcameraswitheverincreasingresolutionand,correspondingly,constantlyincreasing
demandsonlensquality.Sothetimewasripeforalensconstructedonthebasisofoptical
calculationsrefinedandperfectedovermanyyears.andnow,ourengineershaveimpressively
redefinedthelimitsofthetechnicallypossible,andhavesetentirelynewstandardsinimage
quality,intheformoftheleicaaPo-Summicron-m50mmf/2aSPH.lens.thechallengethey
setthemselveswastoexplorethelimitsofwhatispossiblewithinstandardspecifications
whenafastaperture,anextremeangleofviewandtheefforttobeinvestedarenottakeninto
account.thissituationmadeitpossibletoconcentrateentirelyonachievingultimateperfec-
tioninimagequalityfromthebeginning.theresultisalensthat,forthefirsttimeever,exploits
theimmensepotentialofcontemporaryhigh-resolutioncamerasystemswithoutcompromise.

theaPo-Summicron-m50mmf/2aSPH.featuresatotalofeightlenselements.thedesign
oftheopticalgroupinfrontofthediaphragmisbasedonthatoftheoutstandingleicaSummi-
lux-m50mmf/1.4aSPH.thegroupbehinditissimilartothatoftheSummilux-m35mm
f/1.4aSPH.asinthecaseoftheSummilux,thisisafloatingelementthatensuresexcellent
imagequalityfrominfinitytotheclosestfocusingrange.Furthermore,thelensemploysex-
tremelycomplexandelaborateapochromaticcorrection,tocorrectchromaticaberrations.
thisminimisescolourfringingonsharpedgestoensurenaturalrenditionofeverydetail.this
isachieved,forinstance,bytheingeniousincorporationofglasswithanomalouspartial
dispersioninitsopticaldesign.consequently,photographersbenefitfromthebestpossible
imagequalityforprintsinanyformat.

topandbottom:thesummermonthsseenumerousherdersonthemountainpastures–likehereatlake
SongKul.thegrazingseasonendsinSeptemberwhenherdersdrivetheiranimalstoloweraltitudes.

 m-SYStEmlENSES i 81
 lEica SUMMILUX-M21mmf/1.4aSPH.
theleicaSummilux-m21mmf/1.4aSPH.istheworld’s
firstandonly21mmlensfor35mmformatphotography
withthisexceptionalmaximumaperture.theoutstanding
imagequality,wideangleofview,andcompactsizeofboth
theleicaSummilux-m21mmf/1.4aSPH.andtheleica
Summilux-m24mmf/1.4aSPH.maketheselensesal-
mostindispensableformanyapplicationsintheworldof
professionalphotography.theyprovideextremelyshallow
depthoffieldatfullapertureformaximumaestheticcon-
trol.inclose-upphotography,forinstance,aforeground
subjectcanbeeffectivelyisolatedfromthebackground
tocreateexpressiveanduniquelynaturalphotographic
effects.Stoppeddowntomediumapertures,theirdepth
offieldissogreatthatallelementsinanexpansivescene,
fromclosestdistancestoinfinity,willbeinsharpfocus.
theuseofafloatingelementensuresthattheirhighre-
solvingpowerismaintainedevenattheclosestfocusing
distance.Vignettinganddistortionareextremelywell
correctedforwide-anglelenseswithsuchlargemaximum
apertures.apatentedrectangularlenshoodpermitsthe
useofSeriesViiifilters.
lEica SUMMILUX - M24mmf/1.4aSPH.
thesuper-speedleicaSummilux-m24mmf/1.4aSPH.is
theidealphotographictoolforprofessionalphotojourna-
lists.indeed,itwasvirtuallypredestinedforuseinavail-
ablelightsituations.likethe21mmf/1.4,itsopticalsys-
temconsistsoftenelementsineightgroups.Priortothe
introductionofasphericalblankmouldingtechnologyfor
opticalelements,creatinglensesofthespeedandquali-
tyoftheSummilux-mserieswouldhavebeenimpossible.
Extremeattentionhasbeenpaidtocorrectingchromatic
aberration,andtothisend,theopticaldesignofthe24
mmlenscontainsnolessthanfiveelementswithanoma-
louspartialdispersion.Vignettinganddistortionareso
superblycorrectedthattheyare,forpracticalpurposes,
non-existent.Evenattherelativelywideapertureoff/
2.8,onlynaturalvignettingduetothelawsofphysicsre-
mains.theimagequalityofthelensisequalineveryway
totheperformanceoftheleicaSummilux-m21mmf/
1.4aSPH.apatentedrectangularlenshoodpermitsthe
useofSeriesViifilters.
 82 i m-SYStEmlENSES
lEica SUMMILUX-M35mmf/1.4aSPH.
theleicaSummilux-m35mmf/1.4aSPH.isthesucces-
sortotheextremelypopularpreviousversionofthelens.
thankstothefurtherdevelopmentofitsopticaland
mechanicalsystems,itnowsetsstandardsintheworldof
fast,wide-anglelenses.incontrasttoitspredecessor,the
newleicaSummilux-m35mmf/1.4aSPH.featuresa
floatingelementthatensuresexcellentimagingqualityin
theclose-uprange.thelensrevealsitsoutstandingper-
formancecharacteristicsatmaximumaperture.thanksto
itsextraordinaryqualities,this35mmlensisauniversal
toolforeveryphotographer.itsmoderatewide-anglecha-
racteristics,ontheonehand,anditsnaturalreproduction
ofperspectives,ontheother,makeitidealforaparticu-
larlybroadspectrumofphotographicusesrangingfrom
portraituretolandscapes.itisidealasafirstlenswhen
beginningtobuildaleicam-System.
lEica SUMMILUX - M50mmf/1.4aSPH.
thankstothisfloatingelement,thisoutstandingstandard
lensisperfectforhighlyexpressiveavailable-lightshots
andhigh-contrastimageswithsuperbresolutionoffine
structures,evenatitsmaximumapertureandclosest
focusingdistance.Precisecolorseparation,almostcom-
pletecorrectionofcoma,andexcellentlycontrolledin-
ternalreflectioncharacteristicsmakeitidealfornatural
compositionsinthelowlightofevening.inadditiontothe
useofglasseswithahighrefractiveindex,twoadditional
elementswithanomalouspartialdispersionguarantee
consistentlyhighimagingperformanceacrosstheentire
imagefield.Portraitsareparticularlyeffectivethanksto
theshallowdepthoffieldatmaximumapertureanda
subtlecontrastgradation.alsoavailableinsilverchrome.
 m-SYStEmlENSES i 83

NaryninsouthernKyrgyzstanisconsideredtobeoneofthemostimportant
centersfortheproductionof‘Shyrdaks’,thetraditionalKyrgyzfeltcarpets.
lEica SUMMICROn - M28mmf/2aSPH.
thiscompactwide-anglelensisextremelyfastandthere-
foreparticularlyrecommendableforavailable-lightphoto-
graphy.thankstoanangleofviewof75°,thewidefieldit
coversalsomakesitidealforvividreportagephotography.
itoffersuncompromisingimagingqualityandhighcontrast
evenatmaximumaperture.thereproductionofeventhe
finestdetailsguaranteesimageswithextraordinarydepth
andbrilliance.Evenincriticallightingsituations,forin-
stanceshootingagainstthelight,reflectionsandflareare
almostcompletelyeliminated.itslargemaximumaperture
off2alsoenablestheuseofselectivefocusinwide-angle
photography.
 84 i m-SYStEmlENSES
lEica APO - SUMMICROn - M75mmf/2aSPH.
thisfast,short,andcompacttelephotolensalreadyde-
liversexcellentimagequalityatmaximumaperturefrom
infinitytoitsclosestfocusingdistance.itunitesevery
capabilityofferedbytoday’shigh-performanceoptical
technologies,anditsconstructionincludesaspherical
surfaces,specialglasseswithanomalouspartialdisper-
sion,andfloatingelements.anintegrated,extendable
lenshoodprovidesprotectionagainststraylightanddirt
and,thankstoitsbalancedproportions,itiscomfortable
touseforlongerperiodsoftime.aphotographictoolthat
representstheabsolutepeakofopticalexcellence.ideal
foravailable-lightportraitsandforemphasizingdetailsin
reportagephotography.
lEica APO – SUMMICROn – M90mmf/2aSPH.
thislenssetsnewstandardsinitsclassintermsofimage
quality.thisisthefirsttimeeverthatapochromaticcorrec-
tionandanasphericallenssurfacehavebeencombined.
Evenwideopen,thequalityofitsbrillianceandresolution
guaranteessuperlativeimagesandmakesittheperfect
lensforportraits,reportage,andstudiophotography.the
distortionissolowastobealmostinvisibleineventhe
mostcriticalimages.maximumopticalperformanceis
alreadyachievedatmoderatedistancesandismaintained
toagreatextentattheclosestfocusingdistances.its
compactconstructionandhighspeedmakeitidealfor
handheldshooting.
 m-SYStEmlENSES i 85
 LEICA REPORTAGE
Home is where the yurt is.

Yurts have been used as transportable homes by the nomadic peoples of central Asia for centuries. The term ‘yurt’
has Turkish origins and means ‘home.’ In the Kyrgyz language however, the yurt is called a ‘ger’. The principles of
yurt construction have changed very little over the centuries, and the differences in the construction of Mongolian,
Kazakh, and Kyrgyz yurts are practically unnoticeable. Common to all is the wooden framework constructed in a
circular form and covered with camel-hair or sheep’s wool felt and the smoke-hole opening at the crown. A particular
feature of Kyrgyz yurts is the domed roof. It is constructed from thin wooden poles that are still damp and are bent
while under the influence of heat. Each pole, or ‘uuk’, is attached to the tunduk before the felt roof cladding is applied
to the framework of the yurt. Setting up a yurt takes only a couple of hours and transportation presents few prob-
lems. During their journey, Jean Gaumy and his team had an opportunity to spend a night in a yurt. Juan, Gaumy’s
assistant, was fascinated by the warmth and comfort of Kyrgyz yurts – at least as long as the stove was burning …
Top: The roof construction of a Kyrgyz yurt, showing the typical crown, the tunduk. Bottom: A yurt being clad with felt.

86 I LEICA REPORTAGE
Top: It is said that all Kyrgyz can ride before they can walk. Bottom: A herder’s hut near Song Kul. Top: ‘The Wild East’, close to Lake Song Kul. Bottom: Traditional hunting meet during the anniversary festivities in Bokonbayevo.
 l Eica SUPER-ELMAR-M18mmf/3.8aSPH.
discovernewhorizons.

FAST AnD
COMPACT
LEnSES Seldombeforehastheoptimumuseofspacebeensoperfectly
achievedaswiththeleicaSuper-Elmar-m18mmf/3.8aSPH.
Withanimpressiveangleofviewof100degrees,thissuper-wide
lensdeliverstrulyoutstandingimagequality.thisopensupnew
potential,notonlyinthefieldsofarchitecturalandlandscape
photography,butalsoforstreetshootingandenvironmentalpor-
traiture.amazingly,itisonlynominallylargerthanastandardlens,
whichispartiallyattributabletoitspatented,space-saving,but
extremelyeffective,lenshood.despiteitsenormousangleof
viewandcompactdimensions,theleicaSuper-Elmar-m18mm
f/3.8aSPH.isaparagonofopticalexcellencethankstoitsinno-
vativeretrofocusdesignconsistingofeightopticalelements,one
ofwhichhastwoasphericalsurfaces.indeed,itprovidesphenom-
enalimagequalityevenatitswidestaperture.

SettingupayurtinBokonbayevoduringthe100thanniversarycelebrations.

 m-SYStEmlENSES i 91
 lEica SUPER-ELMAR-M21mmf/3.4aSPH.
theSuper-Elmar-m21mmf/3.4aSPH.isdistinguished
byoutstandingimagingperformanceandastoundingly
compactdimensions.thelensalreadyrevealsitsexcel-
lentreproductionofdetailsandsuperiorcontrastat
maximumaperture.thankstoitswideangleofview,itis
anexcellentlensforarchitecturalandlandscapephoto-
graphyandcapturingthevibrancyoflifeinreportage
photography.itselaborateeight-elementopticaldesign
guaranteesexcellentimagequality.theuseofonelens
elementwithtwoasphericalsurfacesandfourlenses
withanomalouspartialdispersionplaysanessential
roleinreducingdistortionandvignettingtoaminimum.
ascrew-inlenshoodpreventstheeffectsofstraylight.
theleicaSuper-Elmar-m21mmf/3.4aSPH.isacom-
pacthigh-performancelensforversatile,superwide-
anglephotography.
lEica ELMAR-M24mmf/3.8aSPH.
thelensischaracterizedbycompactdimensionsand
extremelyhighimagingperformanceincombination
withaverywideangleofview,allofwhichmakesita
particularlypracticalwide-anglelens.itsrangeofuses
isalsowide;fromin-your-facephotographyofpeoplein
theirpersonalspherestolandscapesandarchitectural
photography.contrastanddetailrenditionarealready
excellentatthemaximumapertureoff3.8.Stopped
downtomediumapertures,thedepthoffieldisso
greatthatentirescenarioscanbecapturedinperfect
focus.asstoppingdownmakescriticalfocusingun-
necessary,leicam-camerasarethenfasterthanany
autofocusmodel.
 92 i m-SYStEmlENSES
lEica ELMARIT-M28mmf/2.8aSPH.
aversatilelensisanabsolutemustforstreetphotogra-
phy.requirementsthatthecompactsizeandflexibility
oftheElmarit-m28mmf/2.8aSPHfulfilltoperfection.
theclassicfocallengthof28mmenablesthecapture
ofimagescharacterizedbyawide,naturalangleofview,
whichexplainstheoutstandingpopularityofthelens
amongstreetphotographersandphotojournalists.at
thesametime,nootherm-lensisascompactasthe
leicaElmarit-m28mmf/2.8aSPH.Highestimaging
performanceisachievedthroughtheuseofanaspheri-
calelement.thelensispracticallyfreeofdistortion
frominfinitytoitsclosestfocusof0.7meters.itslight
weightofonly180gisunrivaled,andmakesittheideal
lenstotakealongwhereveryougo.
lEica SUMMICROn - M35mmf/2mmaSPH.
Becauseofitsexcellentcontrastcharacteristics,out-
standingresolutionthroughouttheentirefocusing
range,andalmostperfecteliminationofdistortion,this
renownedlensisoneoftheworld’sbesthigh-speed
35mmlenses.itisalsoamazinglycompactdespite
itslargeapertureandhighimagingperformance.in
combinationwiththislens,anyleicam-camerabe-
comesacompactandelegantsysteminitself.inthis
way,itenablesphotographerstoworkinaparticularly
discreetandunobtrusivewaywithoutattractingundue
attention.theleicaSummicron-m35mmf/2isalso
availableinasilverchromefinish.
 m-SYStEmlENSES i 93

Yurtsatanaltitudeofmorethan3,000meters/9,850feet,
ontheshoresofSongKul,Kyrgyzstan’ssecondlargestlake.
lEica SUMMICROn-M50mmf/2
thiscompactuniversallenshaslongbeenacclaimed
asthebestnormallensinitsapertureclass.itdelivers
extremelylowdistortionandoutstandingimagequality,
evenatclosedistancesandfromcornertocorner.this
makestheSummicronanidealstandardlensforallpho-
tographersseekinganunsurpassedcombinationofhigh
performanceandrefinementinahandy,lightweight
package.theSummicron-m50mmf/2offerssuch
impressivecontrastperformancefrombeginningto
endofitsaperturescalethatstoppingdowntof2.8or
f4onlyminimallyincreasesimagecontrast.itsperfect-
lybalancedconstructionmakesthisidealstandard
lensanoutstandingchoiceinallimportantcategories
likeperformance,size,weight,andprice.
 94 i m-SYStEmlENSES
lEica MACRO-ELMAR-M90mmf/4
 inasetwithlEica
1  aNGlEFiNdErm
2  macro-adaPtErm
thisisthemostcompacttelephotolenseveroffered
byleica.itisaversatile,high-performancelensthatis
alsosupremelyportable.incombinationwiththeleica
macro-adapterm,itallowsmacrophotographyatdis-
tancesascloseas55cmandareproductionratioof
upto1:3.despiteitsdiminutivesize,themacro-Elmar
deliversoutstandingimagequalityinbothnormal
distanceandmacroapplications.incombinationwith
a28mmor35mmwide-anglelens,thislensoffersa
compact,comprehensivesystemthatisperfectfor
travelling,orinothersituationswherelowweightand
volumeareessential.
lEica APO-TELYT-M135mmf/3.4
thelongestfocallengthinthem-Systemisanuncompro-
misingtelephotolensinoutstandingleicaaPoquality.
resolutionandcontrastareperfectateveryaperture.
Eventhesmallestdetailsarereproducedwithperfect
clarityandcontrast.theleicaaPo-telyt-m135mmf/3.4
allowsthecaptureofdistinctivelandscapeimageswith
opticalcompressionofforegroundandbackgroundpers-
pectivesaswellasfull-formatcandidportraitscaptured
unobtrusivelyfromadiscreetdistance.thankstoits
apochromaticcorrectionofcoloraberrations,minimal
distortion,andhardlyperceptiblevignetting–evenat
maximumaperture–thelensdeliversimagingresults
thatareabletosatisfydemandsatthehighestprofes-
sionallevels.
lensesshownreducedinsize.
 m-SYStEmlENSES i 95
 l Eica SUMMARIT-M35mmf/2.5
Extremelycompact,extremelygood.

SUMMARIT
LEnSES theleicaSummarit-m35mmf/2.5’ssmall,handyandstylish
designismatchedbyitsimpressiveperformance.itproduces
excellentcontrastandoutstandingresolutionacrossthe
entireimagefield.therelativelyshortfocallengthandwide
depthoffieldthislensprovidesmeansthatatmediumaper-
turesthereisoftennoneedforprecisefocusing.thismakes
iteasytotakespontaneousandlifelikeunposedpictures.as
agenuineall-rounder,itisindispensablechoicewhenever
youareputtingtogetheranewequipmentconfigurationsince
itcandealeffectivelywithallphotographicsituations–from
vividshotsofpeopleatmediumrangeallthewaytodramatic
landscapes.theleicaSummarit-m35mmf/2.5hassixlens
elementsinfourgroups,arrangedsymmetricallywithrespect
tothediaphragm.threeelementsaremadeofspecialhigh
refractiveindexglasswithanomalouspartialdispersion.this
improvestheimageresultsandprovidesoutstandingcolor
correctionthatcouldneverbeachievedwithnormalglass.

HerdsmaninhisyurtnearSongKul.

 m-SYStEmlENSES i 97
 lEica SUMMARIT-M50mmf/2.5

Powerful,lightweightanddesignedtobeeasytooperate,the
leicaSummarit-m50mmf/2.5’sapplicationsareasvaried
aslifeitself.itcorrespondscloselytothefieldofvisionand
viewingpatternsofthehumaneyeandoffersanimpressive-
lyneutralandnaturalperspective.Evenatfullaperture,the
lensoffersoutstandingresultswithexcellentcontrastover
almosttheentireimagefield.Notjustbeneficialforportraits,
butforallshotsatfullaperture,theshallowdepthoffieldof
thislensmakesthemainsubjectstandoutfromtheback-
ground.thisresultsinpictureswithenhancedimpactand
out-of-focusareasthathaveapleasant,naturalsmoothness.
theleicaSummarit-m50mmf/2.5hasatraditionaldouble-
Gaussconstructionmadeupofsixlenselementsinfour
groups,arrangedsymmetrically.asaresult,itprovidesan
outstandinglyflatimagefieldandexcellentcorrectionfor
chromaticaberrationsanddistortion.

asmallsettlementofyurts,notfarfromlakeSongKul.

lEica SUMMARIT-M75mmf/2.5 lEica SUMMARIT-M90mmf/2.5

theleicaSummarit-m75mmf/2.5isanew‘shorttele-
photo’lensthatissignificantlysmallerandlighterthan
Summicronlenseswiththesamefocallength,butstillof-
ferstheimagequalitythatisthehallmarkofleicamlenses.
thenaturalperspectiveprovidedbythisfocallengthmeans
thatportraitshotshavealovelyplasticitywithwell-diffe-
rentiatedcontourswithoutthesubjectlosinganyofits
lifelikeandnaturalappearance.inreportage,forexample,
thecriticalelementsofthesubjectcanbeselectivelyem-
phasizedwithoutlosingtheoverallcontext.theleicaSum-
marit-m75mmf/2.5isadouble-Gausstypewithsixlens
elementsinfourgroups–threeinfrontofandthreebehind
thediaphragm,withthelastlenspositionedslightlycloser
tothefocalplanetoreducebulgingoftheimagefield.Four
elementsaremadeofspecialglasswithanomalouspartial
dispersionandtwoofthemarealsohighindexglass.
theleicaSummarit-m90mmf/2.5isaversatiletelephoto
lensthatroundsoffthenewlensspeedclassofSummarit-
mlenses.despitebeingmuchmorehandyandlighterthan
thecomparable90mmSummicronlens,itoffersoutstand-
ingopticalandmechanicalquality.the90mmtelephoto
lensisaperfectdemonstrationofhowleica’sSummarit-m
classissettingnewstandardsinsphericallensdesign.a
leicamcamerawithaleicaSummarit-m90mmf/2.5
fittedisanextremelycompactandhandyunit.compared
toother90mmfocallengthlenses,thereishardlyany
intrusionintotheviewfinderimage.Evenatfullaperture,
thislensdemonstratesexcellentimagingcapabilitywith
outstandingcontrastovertheentireimagefield.theleica
Summarit-m90mmf/2.5hasfivelenselementsinfour
groups,oneofwhichismadeofatypeofopticalglassthat
notonlyhasanomalouspartialdispersionbutalsohasex-
tremelylowdispersionoverall.

 98 i m-SYStEmlENSES  m-SYStEmlENSES i 99

 l Eica TRI-ELMAR-M16-18-21mmf/4aSPH.
thesuperwide-anglewiththreefocallengths.

ZOOM inasetwiththelEicaUNiVErSal

LEnSES
WidE-aNGlEViEWFiNdErm

thankstoitsimpressive107°angleofview,thetri-Elmarconquers
16mmsuperwide-anglephotographyinperfectleicamquality.
itsminimaldistortionandhardlyperceptibleimagefieldcurvature
evenatthe16mmsettingmakethislenssuitableforextremely
demandingarchitecturalphotographers.thetri-Elmarunitesthree
superwide-anglefocallengthsinoneextremelycompactlens.its
compactconstructionismadepossiblebytheuseoftwoaspheri-
calelements.anewconstructionconceptforitsinternalfocusing,
basedonthefloating-elementsprinciple,considerablyincreases
imagingqualityatcloserfocusingdistances.Hyperfocalfocusing
thereforeallowstheuseofsuperbdepthoffieldfromdistancesas
shortas33cm/1.1ft.onlyavailableinasetwiththeleicaUni-
versalWide-angleViewfinderm.

September2012–duringthecelebrationsofthe100thanniversaryofthefounding
ofthecityofBokonbayevoonthesouthernshoresoflakeissykKul.

 m-SYStEmlENSES i 101
M - SYSTEM
EXTRAS

Rehearsal in the municipal theater in Naryn.

 02

01

03
M - SYSTEM 01 PROTECTOR M

ACCESSORIES
The camera protector for the M digital cameras has been optimally
designed to house your M-Camera, even in rough reportage photog-
raphy situations. Made of high-quality soft black leather, the protector
Step out in style. features grips on the back and front to aid ergonomic camera handling.

02 NEOPRENE CASE M

This protective black case, with a strap, has handy Velcro fasteners as
well as two compartments for memory cards. With a short front, it
holds a Leica M-Camera with a lens of up to 65 mm diameter/60 mm
length. With a long front, it holds a Leica M-Camera with a lens of up
to 65 mm diameter/80 mm length. The neoprene case M can be safely
stowed in any piece of baggage.

03 SYSTEM CASE ‘BILLINGHAM’

The most flexible bag for Leica M equipment holds two M bodies with
two lenses or one M body with three lenses and is waterproof. Even
large lenses and a mounted Leicavit M or Leica Motor M can be com-
fortably and compactly carried. The zipper compartment holds the
Leica SF 24D flash as well as film and additional accessories.

104 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS

 04

07

06 04 EVER - READY CASE M 07 EVER - READY CASE FOR ANALOGUE CAMERAS

The ever-ready case M was designed specifically for the new Leica M.
It protects the camera during transport and can remain connected to
the camera for an impromptu shot. For good protection during a more
intensive shoot, the front part of the case can be removed; the remain-
ing part continues to act as a camera protector.
05 EVER - READY CASE M - E AND M MONOCHROM (not illustrated)
Made of premium black Nappa leather, this ever-ready case offers per-
fect and elegant protection for the Leica M-E and M Monochrom with a
lens up to a length of 70 mm (from the bayonet flange) attached. The
lower part can be turned, easily allowing the battery and memory card
to be changed without removing the camera from the case.
The new ever-ready case M has been optimised for fit, ease of use, and
with high-grade leather. Enhanced seams and Nappa leather provide
ideal protection while two distinctly contoured grip bulges at the front
and rear of the base also provide ergonomic support when holding the
camera. Compatible with all analogue models, except for the Leica
M5 and Leica M3 from the first series.
08 COMFORT CARRYING STRAP M (not illustrated)
The black saddle leather carrying strap, featuring an extra-wide, easy-
carry neck section, is ideal for lengthy photographic excursions.

06 EVER - READY CASE MP

The robust black saddle leather ever-ready case MP accommodates a

Leica MP with a rewind crank and a Leicavit M. The camera is optimally
protected, in a style befitting its quality, and is always ready for shooting
a rapid series of exposures.

106 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS

 09

10
LEICA M À LA CARTE 09 EVER - READY CASE M À LA CARTE

ACCESSORIES
This case is handcrafted and provides secure protection for an MP or
M7 with one of the following lenses: 2.8/21 mm without lens hood;
2.8/24 mm without lens hood; 2/28 mm with lens hood; 1.4/35 mm
Select elegance. without lens hood; 2/35 mm with lens hood; 2.8/50 mm extended;
1.4/50 mm, 2/50 mm, 4/90 mm retracted. All colour and leather vari-
ants from the Leica à la carte range are available.

10 CARRYING STRAPS M À LA CARTE

Choose a strap to your liking in the classic narrow design matching the
individually produced M-Camera à la carte. Select from saddle, Nappa,
calf, or ostrich style embossed leather and various textures and colours.

108 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS


01 02
M - SYSTEM ERGONOMICS
TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT 01 HANDGRIP M
The Leica handgrip M ensures improved safe and steady camera hand-
Expand your options. ling, especially when shooting with heavier M-Lenses. The optional Leica
finger loop in various sizes (S, M, and L) can enhance your grip even
further. These loops are quickly and easily attached to the handgrip.
02 MULTIFUNCTIONAL HANDGRIP M
The Leica multifunctional handgrip M includes geotagging and permits
the use of a separate flash unit when an accessory viewfinder is mounted.
It has an SCA port that is similar to the sockets for external power supply
and studio flash systems. It can easily be directly connected to a com-
puter via USB.
03 HANDGRIP M FOR MP AND M7 (not illustrated)
There are situations in which you only have one free hand to hold the
camera and press the shutter release. For those cases, this handgrip
keeps the camera stable and safely in your hand. It is simply screwed
into the tripod bushing on the camera. Changing film is also not a prob-
lem with the handgrip – the hinged lever that unlocks the base plate
remains freely accessible.
110 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS
05
04 LENS HOLDER FOR MP UND M7 (not illustrated)
With this lens holder, photographers only need a camera and two lenses
to take a great picture. The holder is screwed into the tripod bushing, so
the second lens serves as a handle or even as a miniature tripod.
05 R - ADAPTER M
For the first time, the new Leica R-Adapter M enables the use of almost
all Leica R-Lenses ever built on the new Leica M. This extensive portfolio
of lenses now opens up new creative horizons for Leica M-Photographers,
for instance, video recording with Leica R-Zoom lenses.
06 FINGER LOOPS FOR HANDGRIP M
The optional Leica finger loop in various sizes (S, M, and L) can enhance
the safe and steady handling of the Leica M and its lenses. The loop can
be used with either the Leica handgrip M or the Leica multifunctional
handgrip M and can significantly improve camera handling when shoot-
ing – especially with heavier R-Lenses.
06
POWER SUPPLY
07 BATTERY CHARGER M (not illustrated)
The charger unit is very compact and equipped with a quick-charger
function. So if the full capacity of about 500 exposures is not required,
the camera can always be recharged in a very short time. EU and US
power cords and a car charging cable for 12 –24 Volts are included. 
UK and AUS power cords are supplied as separate accessories.
08 AC ADAPTER FOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL HANDGRIP M (not illustrated)
For permanent stationary operation of the camera in professional studios
or industrial applications, the new Leica M can be equipped with an AC
adapter to supply the multifunctional handgrip M directly from the main
power supply.
M - SYSTEM EXTRAS I 111
 14
12
13
15

VIEWFINDER EQUIPMENT 12 UNIVERSAL WIDE - ANGLE VIEWFINDER M 15 Visoflex Electronic Viewfinder (EVF 2) FILM ADVANCE

09 VIEWFINDER MAGNIFIER M 1.25 × (not illustrated)
To provide a major aid in framing the subject at focal lengths of 50 mm 
or more, the M 1.25 × magnifies the viewfinder image by one-quarter. 
This greatly enhances focusing accuracy, especially when shooting at
telephoto focal lengths.
10 VIEWFINDER MAGNIFIER M 1.4 × (not illustrated)
Enlarging the viewfinder image by two-fifths, this viewfinder magnifier is
recommended for focal lengths of 75 mm or more. It also turns into mag-
nification of 1 × (0.95 × with M8 models) – a combination that allows for
comfortable viewing of the subject with both eyes.
Both viewfinder magnifiers are simply screwed into the viewfinder ocular
of the Leica M. A small chain attached to the Leica M’s carrying strap
eyelet prevents it from being lost or damaged. A leather pouch is sup-
plied for safekeeping when it’s not attached.
The universal wide-angle viewfinder M enables precise cropping of the
subject with the Leica Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21 mm f/4 ASPH. It is insensi-
tive to stray light and features high resolution, resulting in brilliant pic-
tures and vivid colours. This viewfinder is fit for both analogue and digital
Leica M-Cameras.
13 BRIGHT - LINE VIEWFINDER M
Due to a concave mirror in the optics, part of the incoming light is used
to illuminate the picture outline as a bright frame. It works in the same
way as in the viewfinder of Leica M-Cameras. The entire optics system 
is given a high-quality multi-layer coating to guarantee optimum viewing
through the finder in all conditions. The finders have parallax compensa-
tion markings for distances less than 2 m that make them ideal for both
analogue and digital photography. Each viewfinder is milled from solid
brass in line with the latest technologies. It then receives a silver chrome
or black paint finish. The eyepiece side is rubberised to protect spectacles.
This electronic viewfinder is available as an optional accessory for the
Leica M-Camera. With a resolution of 1.4 megapixels and 90° swivel
action for capturing images from unusual angles, it displays all of the
significant exposure parameters. It therefore enables precise compo-
sition control – particularly in very bright light. Allows photographers 
to efficiently focus R-Lenses fixed to the camera with the R-Adapter.
16 LEICAVIT M (not illustrated)
The Leicavit M fast winder is mounted in place of the base cover. It allows
experienced photographers to shoot up to two frames per second without
taking the camera from their eye. Just unfold the lever, pull it back to its limit
to wind the film, and take the picture. The Leicavit M fits the Leica MP/M7.
17 MOTOR M (not illustrated)
The Leica M motor is placed on the base cover of the camera. The ergono-
mically styled handle houses two 3 - Volt 123 A lithium batteries, providing
a capacity for shooting a minimum of 100 36-exposure rolls (at 20° C). It
is just 18.5 mm high, and without batteries weighs 225 grams.

11 CORRECTION LENSES M (not illustrated) 14 ANGLEFINDER M

The Leica correction lenses M enable an optimum eye-to-camera match
and make composing images in the viewfinder more comfortable. They
are available in grades of +/– 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 3 diopters. Please note
that the Leica M-Viewfinder has a default setting of – 0.5 diopters, so
anyone wearing glasses of 1 diopter strength would require a + 1.5 diopter
correction lens.
Thanks to the Leica angle viewfinder M, exploring objects close to the
ground with the Macro-Elmar-M 90 mm f/4 is twice as much fun. Screwed
onto the ocular of the Leica M, it can be turned freely at a 45-degree
angle. This allows relaxed picture taking without holding the camera direct-
ly in front of your eyes.

112 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS M - SYSTEM EXTRAS I 113

 18
FLASH UNITS
18 SF 24D
This electronic flash unit is designed to provide maximum distance
between the flash reflector and the camera lens. The light output is
controlled either by its TTL flash exposure meter or by the automatic
flash itself. All the information is displayed on an illuminated LCD
including an exposure confirmation indication and flash ready light.
The ISO film speed range of the Leica SF 24D flash unit extends from
12 to 3600 in the M/TTL range and from 25 to 800 in A mode. The
illumination angle corresponds to a focal length range of 35 to 85 mm,
and can be extended with the two diffusers supplied. Flash exposure
with wide-angle lenses down to 24 mm and telephoto lenses up to
135 mm focal length is therefore made possible.
19 SF 58 (not illustrated)
The Leica SF 58 flash features sensitive controls that allow you to subtly
brighten a subject or turn the dead of night into living day. Everything is
up to you and your creative desires. Thanks to ample power reserves,
extreme speed, comprehensive features, and simple handling, this flash
unit is cut out for any challenge. This flash unit is a creative light with
great potential. With the Leica SF 58 flash you will achieve anything from
subtle fill-in to indirect flash light or decoupled flash operation. It enables
you to concentrate fully on the subject while leaving the exposure up to
the camera. While the main reflector is responsible for the indirect flash,
114 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS
20
the Leica SF 58 flash’s secondary reflector can be used to lighten up the
darks and generate brilliant results.
20 SCA ADAPTER SET FOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL HANDGRIP M  
The Leica SCA adapter set for the multifunctional handgrip M. The multi-
functional handgrip M expands the camera’s functional capabilities with
an additional SCA-dedicated interface to allow the simultaneous use of a
separate flash unit and an accessory viewfinder on the camera. The SCA
adapter set – comprising a high-quality flash-bar and an off-camera hot
shoe with a spiral cable – is required to use the additional interface. The
SCA adapter set can either be used as an integrated unit to attach the
flash unit to the camera, or without the flash-bar to allow off-camera flash.
21
VIDEO EQUIPMENT
21 MICROPHONE ADAPTER SET
The Leica microphone adapter set, consisting of an adapter and a stereo
microphone, is available as a special optional accessory to complement
the 1080-pixel full-HD video capability of the Leica M. To use the adapt-
er, simply plug it into the multifunctional accessory socket. The use of
other microphones is also possible.
FILTERS
22 UVa AND POLARISATION FILTERS M (not illustrated)
The UVa filter minimizes bluishness in distant scenes, protects the front
element of the lens, and can be permanently attached. The polarisation
filters eliminate many disturbing reflections and enhance colour saturation,
effects that can be assessed by holding the filter in front of the viewfind-
er. These Leica M-Filters are made of optically pure glass, parallel plane
ground, and are precisely annealed. The full performance of the Leica
M-Lenses is thus retained even with a filter attached.
23
TRIPOD EQUIPMENT
23 TABLETOP TRIPOD AND BALL HEAD
With the Leica M, sharp handheld shots down to 1/15 of a second are
no problem. For all other situations, the portable Leica tabletop tripod
provides effective stability. It has three robust extending legs that can 
be locked in any position. For even more creativity the flexible unit can
be braced against a wall, a tree, or the photographer’s own shoulder.
24 CABLE RELEASE (not illustrated)
It is well known that the Leica M’s focal-plane shutter causes little vibra-
tion when it shoots. But for lengthy exposure times, a tripod and cable
release are essential. The remote release, featuring a conical thread, is
screwed into the shutter release bushing. A locking screw allows long
exposure times on the B setting.
M - SYSTEM EXTRAS I 115
 M-SYSTEM
Extras.

Product M (Type 240) M-E M MONOCHROM M7 MP Product M (Type 240) M-E M MONOCHROM M7 MP

10 CARRYING STRAPS M À LA CARTE

Order no. 14453 Saddle leather, black x x x x x
ACCESSORIES
Order no. 14454 Naturally-tanned leather, cognac x x x x x
01 PROTECTOR M
Order no. 14456 Nappa leather, racing green x x x x x
Order no. 14869 Black x x Order no. 14457 Calf leather, smooth, red x x x x x
Order no. 14880 Black x Order no. 14458 Calf leather, smooth, mocha x x x x x
Order no. 14881 Cognac x Order no. 14465 Lizard style embossed leather, black x x x x x
02 NEOPRENE CASE M Order no. 14466 Ostrich style embossed leather, black x x x x x
Order no. 14467 Ostrich style embossed leather, chestnut x x x x x
Order no. 14867 With short front section x x x x x
Order no. 14468 Nappa leather, bordeaux red x x x x x
Order no. 14868 With long front section x x x x x
Order no. 14469 Calf leather, smooth, blue x x x x x
03 SYSTEM CASE ‘BILLINGHAM’
Order no. 14854 Black x x x x x
Order no. 14855 Khaki x x x x x TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT
04 EVER - READY CASE M
Order no. 14547 Ever-ready case with short front section, black x
ERGONOMICS
Order no. 14548 Ever-ready case with long front section, black x
01 HANDGRIP M
Order no. 14549 Ever-ready case with short front section, cognac x
Order no. 14550 Ever-ready case with long front section, cognac x Order no. 14399 Black chrome x x
Order no. 14496 Black paint x
05 EVER - READY CASE FOR M - E AND M MONOCHROM
02 MULTIFUNCTIONAL HANDGRIP M
Order no. 14872 x x
Order no. 14495 Black paint x
06 EVER - READY CASE MP
03 HANDGRIP FOR MP AND M7
Order no. 14856 x
Order no. 14405 Black x x
07 EVER - READY CASE FOR ANALOGUE CAMERAS
04 LENS HOLDER M
Order no. 14875 With short front section x x
Order no. 14876 With long front section x x Order no. 14404 x x

08 COMFORT CARRYING STRAP M 05 R - ADAPTER M

Order no. 14455 x x x x x Order no. 14642 Black paint x

06 FINGER LOOPS FOR HANDGRIP M

Order no. 14646 S x
ACCESSORIES M à la carte
Order no. 14647 M x
09 M À LA CARTE EVER - READY CASE Order no. 14648 L x
Order no. 14857 Naturally-tanned leather, cognac x x
Order no. 14858 Nappa leather, racing green x x
Order no. 14859 Calf leather, smooth, red x x POWER SUPPLY
Order no. 14860 Calf leather, smooth, mocha x x 07 BATTERY CHARGER M
Order no. 14861 Lizard style embossed leather, black x x
Order no. 14494 x
Order no. 14862 Ostrich style embossed leather, black x x
Order no. 14470 x x
Order no. 14863 Ostrich style embossed leather, chestnut x x
Order no. 14864 Nappa leather, bordeaux red x x 08 AC ADAPTER FOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL HANDGRIP M

Order no. 14865 Calf leather, smooth, blue x x Order no. 14497 x

116 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS M - SYSTEM EXTRAS I 117

 Product M (Type 240) M-E M MONOCHROM M7 MP Product M (Type 240) M-E M MONOCHROM M7 MP

VIEWFINDER EQUIPMENT FLASH UNITS

09/10 VIEWFINDER MAGNIFIER M 18 SF 24D
Order no. 12004 1.25 x x x x x x Order no. 14444 Black x x x x x
Order no. 12006 1.4 x x x x x x Order no. 14445 Replacement diffuser screen 24/28 mm x x x x x
Order no. 14446 Replacement diffuser screen 85 mm x x x x x
11 CORRECTION LENSES M
Order no. 14350 + 0.5 x x x x x 19 SF 58
Order no. 14351 + 1.0 x x x x x Order no. 14488 Black x x x x x
Order no. 14352 + 1.5 x x x x x Order no. 14489 Diffuser for exceptionally soft lighting x x x x x
Order no. 14353 + 2.0 x x x x x
20 SCA ADAPTER SET FOR MULTIFUNCTIONAL HANDGRIP M
Order no. 14354 + 3.0 x x x x x
Order no. 14498 x
Order no. 14355 - 0.5 x x x x x
Order no. 14356 - 1.0 x x x x x
Order no. 14357 - 1.5 x x x x x
VIDEO EQUIPMENT
Order no. 14358 - 2.0 x x x x x
21 MICROPHONE ADAPTER SET
Order no. 14359 - 3.0 x x x x x
Order no. 14634 x
12 UNIVERSAL WIDE - ANGLE VIEWFINDER M
Order no. 12011 x x x x x

13 BRIGHT - LINE VIEWFINDER M FILTERS

Order no. 12022 18 mm, black paint x x x x x 22 UVA AND POLARISATION FILTERS M
Order no. 12023 18 mm, silver chrome x x x x x Order no. 13131 E39 UVa in black mount x x x x x
Order no. 12024 21 mm, black paint x x x x x Order no. 13132 E39 UVa in silver mount x x x x x
Order no. 12025 21 mm, silver chrome x x x x x Order no. 13004 E46 UVa in black mount x x x x x
Order no. 12026 24 mm, black paint x x x x x Order no. 13005 E46 UVa in silver mount x x x x x
Order no. 12027 24 mm, silver chrome x x x x x Order no. 13328 E49 UVa in black mount x x x x x
14 ANGLEFINDER M Order no. 13373 E55 UVa in black mount x x x x x
Order no. 13374 E55 UVa in silver mount x x x x x
Order no. 12531 x x x x x
Order no. 13381 E60 UVa in black mount x x x x x
15 VISOFLEX ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER (EVF 2)
Order no. 13356 Universal-Polfilter M x x x x x
Order no. 18753 x For further order numbers, please visit www.leica-camera.com x x x x x

FILM ADVANCE TRIPOD EQUIPMENT

16 LEICAVIT M 23 TABLETOP TRIPOD AND BALL HEAD
Order no. 14009 Black paint x x Order no. 14100 Tabletop tripod x x x x x
Order no. 14450 Black chrome x x Order no. 14110 Ball head x x x x x
Order no. 14008 Silver chrome x x
24 REMOTE CABLE RELEASE
17 MOTOR M
Order no. 14076 50 cm long x x x x x
Order no. 14408 x x

118 I M - SYSTEM EXTRAS M - SYSTEM EXTRAS I 119

 M - SYSTEM
TECHNICAL
DATA

Fabrics on sale at the bazaar in Osh.

 LEICA M
Technical data.

Camera Leica M (Type 240) Black paint Silver chrome

Order no. 10 770 10 771 Exposure metering Centre-weighted, selective metering (spot) or multi-segment metering.
methods
Camera type Compact digital rangefinder system camera for still picture photography and video recording.
Exposure compensation –3 EV to +3 EV, one-third stop increments.
Lens mount Leica M-Bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding.
Exposure bracketing 3/5 exposures, 0.5/1/2/3 stop increments.
Viewfinder type Large, bright, combined bright-line viewfinder/rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation, bright-line frames
with LED illumination. Split and superimposed image rangefinder, shown as a bright field in the centre of the viewfinder. Exposure modes M (manual), A (aperture priority), B.

Viewfinder magnification 0.68×. Video formats Full-frame recording with individual frame compression (Motion JPG), QuickTime format (.mov).

Viewfinder coverage At a focusing distance of 2 metres, the size of the bright-line frame corresponds to the sensor size of approx.  Video resolution/ 1080 pixels, 720 pixels, 640 × 480 (VGA)/25 fps, 24 fps.
23.9 × 35.8 mm. Focused at infinity, and depending on the focal length, the sensor captures a greater area than that frame rate
indicated by the bright-line frame. At distances of less than 2 metres, the area captured is a little less than that 
indicated by the bright-line frame. Audio recording Automatic level adjustment, manual level adjustment (also during recording), concert setting.

Eyepiece/ Adjusted to –0.5 dioptres. Correction lenses available for –3 to +3 dioptres. Microphone Mono, stereo microphone adapter available as an optional accessory.
dioptre compensation
Menu languages German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, traditional Chinese, simplified Chinese, Russian.
Sensor type Leica Max 24-MP CMOS sensor.
Shutter Dual focal plane shutter for classical image capture and Live View.
Sensor size 24 × 36 mm.
Shutter speeds 1/4000 s to 60 s (in bulb mode), 1/180 s flash sync speed.
Resolution DNGTM: 5976 × 3992 pixels. JPG: 5952 × 3976 pixels (24 megapixels), 4256 × 2832 pixels (12 megapixels), 
2976 × 1984 pixels (6 megapixels), 1600 × 1080 pixels (1.7 megapixels).
 
Shutter release Two stage: 1 power on + hold metered value (in aperture priority mode) – 2 shutter release.
Standard internal threading for remote release.
Colour depth 14-bit.
Flash exposure control Control with centre-weighted TTL pre-flash metering (with SCA-3501/3502 adapter or SCA-3000 standard flash units,
Image processor Leica Maestro® image processor. e.g. Leica SF 24D/Leica SF 58). HSS flash synchronisation.

Image data formats DNGTM (uncompressed RAW data or with lossless compression), JPEG, DNG + JPEG. Flash synchronisation =1/180 s. Optional synchronisation on first or second shutter curtain, faster sync speeds possible with 
HSS-compatible flash units.
Working colour space sRGB, Adobe®RGB.
(JPEG) Monitor 3-inch TFT monitor (921,600 pixels) with scratch-resistant cover in Corning® Gorilla® glass.

Capture settings (JPEG) Contrast, sharpness, film modes. Levelling aid Yes.

ISO sensitivity ISO 200–ISO Push 6400, in 1/3-ISO steps, ISO 100 as additional pull function. Storage media SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards.

White balance Automatic, daylight, cloudy, shade, tungsten, warm fluorescent, cool fluorescent, flash, manual (grey card),  Power supply Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included), nominal voltage 7.4 V, capacity 1800 mAh.
colour temperature 2,000–13,100 K.
Body Full metal body in magnesium alloy with artificial leather trim. Top plate and base plate in brass. Black paint or silver
Optional electronic Yes (EVF-2). chrome finish, splash-proof.
viewfinder available
Tripod thread A 1/4 (1/4") DIN, stainless steel, integrated in the camera body.
Shooting modes Single frame, continuous, self-timer 2 s, self-timer 12 s.
Dimensions (W × D × H) Approx. 139 × 42 × 80 mm.
Maximum burst rate Approx. 3 fps.
Weight (including battery) 680 g.
Focusing Manual focusing based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder principle, Live View, 100% Live View Zoom, 
modes Live View Focus Peaking. Operating conditions 0–40°C.

Interfaces Data interface for the multifunctional handgrip M (optional accessory).

Exposure metering  In classical rangefinder mode: through-the-lens (TTL) metering, centre-weighted with variable working aperture 
principle by metering sensor. In Live View and extended viewfinder mode: exposure metering by the image sensor.  Package includes Battery, battery charger with mains cables (EU, USA, may differ in some export markets), 12 V charging cable, 
Centre-weighted TTL metering for flash exposure with system-compatible SCA-3000/2 standard flash units. carrying strap, connector cover, body cap, Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® as download option.

122 I M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA I 123

 LEICA M-E
Technical data.

Camera Leica M-E (Type 220) Anthracite-grey paint

Order no. 10 759 Exposure metering Centre-weighted.

methods
Camera type Compact digital rangefinder system camera for still pictures.
Exposure compensation –3 EV to +3 EV, one-third stop increments.
Lens mount Leica M-Bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding.
Exposure bracketing 3/5 exposures, 0.5/1/1.5/2 stop increments.
Viewfinder type Large, bright, combined bright-line viewfinder/rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation and optically
illuminated bright-line frames. Split and superimposed image rangefinder, shown as a bright field in the centre of the Exposure M (manual), A (aperture priority), B.
viewfinder. modes

Viewfinder magnification 0.68×. Video formats –

Viewfinder coverage
Eyepiece/
dioptre compensation
At a focusing distance of 1 metre, the size of the bright-line frame corresponds to the sensor size of approx. Video resolution/ –
23.9 × 35.8 mm. Focused at infinity, and depending on the focal length, the sensor captures a greater area than that frame rate
indicated by the bright-line frame. At distances of less than 1 metre, the area captured is a little less than that 
Audio recording –
indicated by the bright-line frame.
Microphone –
Adjusted to –0.5 dioptres. Correction lenses available for –3 to +3 dioptres.
Menu languages German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, traditional Chinese, simplified Chinese, Russian.

Sensor type KAF-18500 CCD sensor with 18 million pixels (18 MP). Shutter Focal plane shutter with external cocking, for classical exposure.

Sensor size Approx. 35.8 × 23.9 mm. Shutter speeds Between 1/4000 s and 240 s (in bulb mode), 1/180 s flash sync speed.

Resolution JPEG: 5212 × 3472 pixels (18 megapixels), 3840 × 2592 pixels (10 megapixels), 2592 × 1728 pixels (4.5 megapixels),  Shutter release Three stages: 1 power on – 2 hold metered value (in aperture priority mode) – 3 shutter release.
1728 × 1152 pixels (2 megapixels), 1280 × 846 pixels (1 megapixel). Standard internal threading for remote release.

Colour depth
Image processor
Image data formats
Working colour space
(JPEG)
14-bit. Flash exposure control Control with centre-weighted TTL pre-flash metering (with SCA-3501/3502 adapter or SCA-3000 standard flash units,
e.g. Leica SF 24D/Leica SF 58).
DSP-based imaging electronics.
Flash synchronisation =1/180 s. Optional synchronisation on first or second shutter curtain.
DNGTM (uncompressed RAW data or data with non-linear, lossless compression), JPEG.
Monitor 2.5-inch TFT monitor (230,000 pixels).
sRGB, Adobe®RGB.
Levelling aid –

Capture settings (JPEG) Saturation, contrast, sharpness. Storage media SD and SDHC memory cards.

ISO sensitivity ISO 200–ISO 2500, with additional ISO 80 pull function. Power supply Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included), nominal voltage 3.7 V, capacity 1860 mAh.

White balance
Optional electronic
viewfinder available
Automatic, daylight, cloudy, shade, tungsten, fluorescent 1, fluorescent 2, flash, manual, colour temperature  Body Full metal body in magnesium alloy with artificial leather trim. Top plate and base plate in brass.
2,000–12,800 K.
Tripod thread A 1/4 (1/4") DIN, stainless steel, integrated in base plate.
–
Dimensions (W × D × H) Approx. 139 × 42 × 80 mm.

Shooting modes Single frame, continuous, self-timer 2 s, self-timer 12 s. Weight (including battery) 585 g.

Maximum burst rate Approx. 2 fps. Operating conditions 0–40°C.

Focusing modes Manual focusing based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder principle. Interfaces 5-pin, high-speed mini USB 2.0 socket for fast data transfer.

Exposure metering  Through-the-lens (TTL) metering, centre-weighted with variable working aperture by metering sensor; Package includes Battery, battery charger with mains cables (EU, USA, may differ in some export markets), 12 V charging cable, 
principle centre-weighted TTL pre-flash metering with system-compatible SCA-3000/2 standard flash units. carrying strap, connector cover, body cap, Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® as download option.

124 I M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA I 125

 LEICA M MONOCHROM
Technical data.
Camera
Order no.
Camera type
Lens mount
Viewfinder type
Viewfinder magnification
Viewfinder coverage
Eyepiece/
dioptre compensation
Sensor type
Sensor size
Resolution
Colour depth
Image processor
Image data formats
Working colour space
(JPEG)
Capture settings (JPEG)
ISO sensitivity
White balance
Optional electronic
viewfinder available
Shooting modes
Maximum burst rate
Focusing modes
Exposure metering 
principle
Exposure metering
methods
126 I M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA
Leica M Monochrom
10 760 Exposure compensation –3 EV to +3 EV, one-third stop increments.
Compact digital rangefinder system camera with a dedicated black-and-white image sensor. Exposure bracketing 3/5 exposures, 0.5/1/1.5/2 stop increments.
Leica M-Bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding. Exposure modes M (manual), A (aperture priority), B.
Large, bright, combined bright-line viewfinder/rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation and optically Video formats –
illuminated bright-line frames. Split and superimposed image rangefinder, shown as a bright field in the centre of the
viewfinder. Video resolution/ –
frame rate
0.68×.
Audio recording –
At a focusing distance of 1 metre, the size of the bright-line frame corresponds to the sensor size of approx. 
23.9 × 35.8 mm. Focused at infinity, and depending on the focal length, the sensor captures a greater area than that Microphone –
indicated by the bright-line frame. At distances of less than 1 metre, the area captured is a little less than that 
indicated by the bright-line frame. Menu languages German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, traditional Chinese, simplified Chinese, Russian.
Adjusted to –0.5 dioptres. Correction lenses available for –3 to +3 dioptres. Shutter Focal plane shutter with external cocking, for classical exposure.
Shutter speeds 1/4000 s to 240 s (in bulb mode), 1/180 s flash sync speed.
CCD sensor with 18 million pixels (18 MP).
Shutter release Three stages: 1 power on – 2 hold metered value (in aperture priority mode) – 3 shutter release.
Approx. 35.8 × 23.9 mm. Standard internal threading for remote release.
DNGTM: 5212 × 3468 pixels. JPEG: 5216 × 3472 (18 megapixels), 3840 × 2592 (10 megapixels),  Flash exposure control Control with centre-weighted TTL pre-flash metering (with SCA-3501/3502 adapter or SCA-3000 standard flash units,
2592 × 1728 (4.5 megapixels), 1728 × 1152 (2 megapixels), 1280 × 864 (1 megapixel). e.g. Leica SF 24D/Leica SF 58).
14-bit. Flash synchronisation =1/180 s; longer shutter speeds may be used. Optional synchronisation on first or second shutter curtain.
DSP-based imaging electronics. Monitor 2.5-inch monitor (colour-TFT LCD) with 230,000 pixels.
DNGTM (uncompressed RAW data), JPEG (with quality-oriented compression). Levelling aid –
sRGB hardwired. Storage media SD and SDHC memory cards.
Power supply Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included), nominal voltage 3.7 V, capacity 1860 mAh.
Contrast, sharpness.
Body Full metal body in magnesium alloy with artificial leather trim. Top plate and base plate in brass.
ISO 320/26° to ISO 10000/41°, selectable in 1/3 ISO increments. ISO 160 also available as a pull function. Black chrome finish, sapphire glass protective cover for the monitor screen.
– Tripod thread A 1/4 (1/4") DIN, stainless steel, integrated in base plate.
– Dimensions (W × D × H) Approx. 139 × 42 × 80 mm.
Weight (including battery) 585 g.
Single frame, continuous, self-timer 2 s, self-timer 12 s.
Operating conditions 0–40°C.
Approx. 2 fps.
Interfaces 5-pin, high-speed mini USB 2.0 socket for fast data transfer.
Manual focusing based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder principle.
Package includes 100–240 V battery charger with two mains cables (EU, USA, may differ in some export markets), a car charger,
Through-the-lens (TTL) metering, centre-weighted at working aperture by metering sensor. rechargeable lithium-ion battery, USB cable, real leather carrying strap, original Leica M Monochrom print of an image
Centre-weighted TTL metering for flash exposure with system-compatible SCA-3000/2 standard flash units. from the campaign, instruction manual, information on registration and software downloads, Adobe® Photoshop®
Lightroom®, Nik Silver Efex ProTM, as download versions.
Centre-weighted.
M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA I 127
 LEICA M7 LEICA MP
Technical data. Technical data.

Camera Leica M7 Black chrome Silver chrome Camera Leica MP Black paint Silver chrome

Order no. 10 503  10 504 Order no. 10 302 10 301

Camera type Compact rangefinder system camera for 35 mm film photography with electronically controlled shutter plus  Camera type Compact rangefinder system camera for 35 mm film photography 
two mechanically controlled shutter speeds. with electronically controlled shutter.

Lens mount Leica M-Bayonet. Lens mount Leica M-Bayonet.

Viewfinder type Large, bright, combined bright-line viewfinder/rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation and optically Viewfinder type Large, bright, combined bright-line viewfinder/rangefinder with automatic parallax compensation and optically
illuminated bright-line frames. Split and superimposed image rangefinder, shown as a bright field in the centre of the illuminated bright-line frames. Split and superimposed image rangefinder, shown as a bright field in the centre of the
viewfinder. viewfinder.

Viewfinder magnification 0.72×. The Leica à la carte programme offers alternative choices of 0.85× or 0.58× viewfinder magnification. Viewfinder magnification 0.72×. The Leica à la carte programme offers alternative choices of 0.85× or 0.58× viewfinder magnification.

Viewfinder coverage The bright-line frame size corresponds to an image size of approx. 23 × 35 mm at the minimum focusing distance for Viewfinder coverage The bright-line frame size corresponds to an image size of approx. 23 × 35 mm at the minimum focusing distance for
all focal lengths. Focused at infinity, and depending on the focal length, approx. 9 % (28 mm) to 23 % (135 mm) more all focal lengths. Focused at infinity, and depending on the focal length, approx. 9 % (28 mm) to 23 % (135 mm) more 
will be captured on the film than is shown in the corresponding bright-line frame. will be captured on the film than is shown in the corresponding bright-line frame.

Eyepiece/ Adjusted to –0.5 dioptres. Correction lenses available for –3 to +3 dioptres. Eyepiece/ Adjusted to –0.5 dioptres. Correction lenses available for –3 to +3 dioptres.
dioptre compensation dioptre compensation

ISO sensitivity Choice of automatic setting from ISO 25/15° to ISO 5000/38° for DX-coded films, or manual setting from ISO 6/9° to ISO sensitivity Manual settings from ISO 6/9° 
ISO 6400/39°. to ISO 6400/39°.

Shooting modes Single shots. Shooting modes Single shots.

Focusing modes Manual focusing based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder principle. Focusing modes Manual focusing based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder principle.

Exposure metering  Selective through-the-lens exposure metering (TTL with metering sensor) at working aperture. Exposure metering  Selective through-the-lens exposure metering (TTL with metering sensor) at working aperture.
principle principle

Exposure metering Selective. Exposure metering Selective.

methods methods

Exposure compensation –2 EV to +2 EV, one-third stop increments. Exposure compensation –

Exposure modes M (manual), A (aperture priority), B. Exposure modes M (manual), B.

Shutter Horizontal, rubberised cloth focal plane shutter with extremely low noise characteristics. Electronically controlled,  Shutter Horizontal, rubberised cloth focal plane shutter with extremely low noise characteristics. 
plus two mechanically controlled shutter speeds, 1/60 s and 1/125 s. Mechanically controlled.

Shutter speeds In aperture priority mode (AUTO), continuous from 32 s to 1/1000 s. In manual mode, settings from 4 s to 1/1000 s in Shutter speeds From 1 s to 1/1000 s in one stop increments. B for exposures times of arbitrary length,
single stop increments. B for exposure times of arbitrary length, 1/50 s flash sync speed. 1/50 s flash sync speed.

Shutter release Three stages: 1 power on – 2 hold metered value (in aperture priority mode) – 3 shutter release. Shutter release Two stage: 1 power on – 2 shutter release.
Standard internal threading for remote release. Standard internal threading for remote release.

Flash exposure control TTL control with centre-weighted integral metering (with SCA-3501/3502 adapter or SCA-3000 standard flash units, Flash exposure control Computer control by the flash unit or guide number calculation and manual setting of the
e.g. Leica SF 24D/Leica SF 58). HSS flash synchronisation. required aperture.

Flash synchronisation – Flash synchronisation = 1/50 s and all longer shutter speeds, first curtain synchronisation.

Power  6 V/2× DL 1/3 N lithium cells. Power  3 V/2× PX 76/SR 44 silver oxide button cells or 1 DL 1/3 N lithium button cell (only required for exposure metering
supply supply and viewfinder displays).

Body One-piece, full metal body with back door. Top plate and base plate in brass. Silver or black chrome finish. Body One-piece, full metal body with back door. Top plate and base plate in brass. Silver or black chrome finish.

Tripod thread A 1/4 (1/4") DIN, integrated in base plate. Tripod thread A 1/4 (1/4") DIN, integrated in base plate.

Dimensions (W × D × H) Approx. 138 × 38 × 79.5 mm. Dimensions (W × D × H) Approx. 138 × 38 × 77 mm.

Weight (including battery) Approx. 610 g. Weight (including battery) Approx. 585 g.

Operating conditions 0–40°C. Operating conditions 0–40°C.

Package includes Carrying strap with non-slip pad, M-Bayonet camera body cap, flash sync socket protector and battery/batteries. Package includes Carrying strap with non-slip pad, M-Bayonet camera body cap, flash sync socket protector and battery/batteries.

128 I M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA I 129

 LEICA M-LENSES
Technical data.

Leica M-Lens No. of Angle of Filter   Dimen-  Weight  Min. Smallest  Largest  Number 
lenses  view  thread  sions  Black/ focusing  object  repro-  of iris 
Elements/ Diagonal, Ø in mm Ø × L from silver,  distance  field  duction  blades
groups in ° bayonet in g From film in mm ratio
flange,  plane,
in mm in cm

Leica Tri-Elmar-M 16 –18 – 21 mm f/4 ASPH. 10/7 107/100/ E67 (14473 58 × 72 335 50 725 × 1087 1:30 9
92 adapter)

Leica Super-Elmar-M 18 mm f/3.8 ASPH. 8/7 100 E77 (14484 61 × 58 310 70 827 × 1241 1:34.6 9
adapter)

Leica Summilux-M 21 mm f/1.4 ASPH. 10/8 92 Series VIII 69.5 × 77 580 70 685 × 1027 1:29 11

Leica Super-Elmar-M 21 mm f/3.4 ASPH. 8/7 91 E46 43 × 55 279 70 706 × 1059 1:29.4 9

Leica Summilux-M 24 mm f/1.4 ASPH. 10/8 84 Series VII 61 × 76 500 70 615 × 922 1:26 11

Leica Elmar-M 24 mm f/3.8 ASPH. 8/6 84 46 53 × 57 260 70 615 × 922 1:26 9

Leica Summicron-M 28 mm f/2 ASPH. 9/6 75 46 53 × 40.8 270 70 533 × 800 1:22 10

Leica Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH. 8/6 75 39 52 × 46 180 70 533 × 800 1:22 10

Leica Summilux-M 35 mm 1.4 ASPH. 9/5 63 46 53 × 46.2 320 70 419 × 627 1:17.5 9

Leica Summicron-M 35 mm f/2 ASPH. 7/5 63 39 53 × 34.5 255/340 70 419 × 627 1:17.5 8

Leica Summarit-M 35 mm f/2.5 6/4 63 39 51 × 34 220 80 490 × 735 1:20.4 9

Leica Noctilux-M 50 mm f/0.95 ASPH. 8/5 47 60 73 × 75 700 100 406 × 608 1:17 11

Leica Summilux-M 50 mm f/1.4 ASPH. 8/5 47 46 53.5 × 52.5 335/465 70 271 × 407 1:11.3 9

Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. 8/5 47 39 53 × 47 Approx. 300 70 271 × 407 1:11.3 11

Leica Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 6/4 47 39 53 × 43.5 240 70 271 × 407 1:11.3 9

Leica Summarit-M 50 mm f/2.5 6/4 47 39 52 × 33 230 80 338 × 508 1:14 9

Leica APO-Summicron-M 75 mm f/2 ASPH. 7/5 32 49 58 × 67 430 70 169 × 254 1:7. 9

Leica Summarit-M 75 mm f/2.5 6/4 32 46 55 × 61 345 90 238 × 357 1:10 11

Leica APO-Summicron-M 90 mm f/2 ASPH. 5/5 27 55 64 × 78 500 100 220 × 330 1:9.1 11

Leica Summarit-M 90 mm f/2.5 5/7 27 46 55 × 67 360 100 213 × 320 1:8.9 11

Leica APO-Telyt-M 135 mm f/3.4 5/4 18 49 58.5 × 450 150 1:9 10

220 × 330
104.7

Leica Macro-Elmar-M 90 mm f/4 4/4 27 39 52 × 59/ 240 77/50* 161 × 241/ 1:6.7/1:3* 10
41** 72 × 108*

* With Leica macro-adapter M.

** Collapsed. Top and bottom: Cotton picking near the city of Osh in southern Kyrgyzstan.

130 I M - SYSTEM TECHNICAL DATA

 LEICA
CAMERAS AND
SPORT OPTICS

Kyrgyz ‘eagle huntsman’ in traditional dress at the 100th anniversary celebrations of the founding of the town of Bokonbayevo.
 l Eica CAMERAS
thefascinationwithperfectpictures.
leicacameraisanamethatstandsforthebestinGermanprecisionengineeringandcraftsmanship–andfora
veryspecialpictorialculture.considertheeyes,thesenseorgansthatmakethemostsignificantcontributionto
ourperceptionandunderstandingoftheworldaroundus.leicahasbeenacclaimedasaspecialistonthesubject
ofperceptionformanyyears,andhasdesignedandmanufacturedmanyinnovativeinstrumentscapableof
creatingdistinctivevisualexperiences.thisappliesequallytoboththelegendarycamerasandtheirlenses.one
all-embracingaspectstandsoutaboveall–theunmistakableleicaqualityoftheiropticalperformanceforboth
filmanddigitalphotography.allareexpandablesystems–intuitiveinuseandelegantindesign–thatretain
enduringvaluewhileguaranteeingsuperiorimagingresultsandboundlesscreativefreedom.
 134 i lEicacamEraSaNdSPortoPticS
lEicaS
WiththeleicaS,leicahasestablishedanentirelynewreferenceclassinthe
worldofprofessionaldigitalphotography.theleicaS-Systembreaksdownthe
traditionalbarriersbetween35mmandmedium-formatphotography.itcombines
thehandlingandsizeofa35mmcamerawithaperformanceandqualitythat
setsnewstandardsinmedium-formatphotography–forsupremeimagequality
andmaximizedcreativepotential.
lEicaX2
theleicaX2makeseachmomentcapturedsomethingtrulyspecial–inbrilliant
picturequality.itsaPS-cimagesensor,itsfast,high-precisionautofocus,andthe
abilitytoswitchbetweenautomaticandmanualinaflashmaketheGerman-manu-
facturedX2theperfectcompanionforcamerauserswithapassionforambitious
photography.anotherreasonwhyX2ownerswillneverwanttoputitdown:the
‘leicaálacarte’programoffersfascinatingoptionsforpersonalisingthelook
andfeeloftheirleicaX2.theprogramoffersachoiceofthreedifferentbody
finishesinanodisedsilver,black,ortitaniumandacollectionoftenleathertrim
optionsinmanydifferentcolours.
lEicad-lUX6
itsoutstandinglensandtheversatileopportunitiesitoffersforcreativephotogra-
phymaketheleicad-lux6theperfectcameraforcapturinginspiringmoments–
inthetypicallybrilliantimagequalityyouexpectfromleica.itsextremelyfast
(f1.4)leicadcVario-Summiluxlensmakesitparticularlysuitableforavailable-
lightphotographyandcreativeexperimentationwithplanesoffocusanddepthof
field.itsfull-Hdvideorecordingcapabilityandnumerousmanualsettingoptions
offerevenmorecreativefreedom.
lEicaV-lUX4
theleicaV-lux4issoversatilethatitsimplytakeseverysituationinitsstride.
itsfast(f/2.8)lensenablessharpexposureseveninpoorlightandthroughout
theentirezoomrangeof25to600mm(equivalentin35mmformat).thanksto
itselectronicviewfinder,photographersnowalwayshaveaperfectviewoftheir
subjects,eveninbrightsurroundings.itsfree-angle3"lcdmonitorscreen
makesiteasytotakeshotsfromthemostunusualangles.inaddition,theleica
V-lux4alsofeaturesfastsequentialshootingcapabilityandmastersfull-Hd
videorecordingatupto60framespersecond–allinall,acamerathattrans-
formseverydaytripintoajourneyofdiscovery.
 lEicacamEraSaNdSPortoPticS i 135
 l Eica SPORT OPTICS
thefascinationwiththeworldofnature.
allproductsmanufacturedbyleicaarecharacterisedbyanuncompromisingdedicationtoqualityandoutstanding
opticalperformance.this,ofcourse,alsoappliestotheleicaSportopticsdivision,wherenewstandardsareset
timeandtimeagain–withacommitmenttobringingtheworldofnatureclosertofieldsportsenthusiastsandlov-
ersofthegreatoutdoorswithunrivaledauthenticity.leicaSportopticsdesignsandmanufacturessuperiorquality
binoculars,spottingscopes,andrangefindersthatguaranteethateveryspecialmomentbecomesatrulymemora-
blevisualexperience.Eachoneofthemembodiessomethingspecialanduniqueinitsownway–justliketheworld
ofnature.
 136 i lEicacamEraSaNdSPortoPticS
BiNocUlarS
leicahasbeenthenameforexcellenceandqualityintheconstructionofbino-
cularsforover100years.WiththeUltravidHd,duovid,trinovid,andthecompact
UltravidBl/BrandtrinovidBcamodels,leicaSportopticsoffersarangeof
high-qualitybinocularsforeverysituation–withprecisedetailrendition,out-
standinglow-lightperformance,absolutecolourfidelity,andhighcontrast.leica
developmentssetnewstandardsforincomparablevisualexperiences.thesein-
cludeinnovationssuchasfluoridelensesforperfectcolourfidelityandsuperior
contrast,orwateranddirtrepellentaquadura®coating.
Fig.:lEicaUltraVid10x42Hd
raNGEFiNdErS
intheearly1980s,leicabecamethefirstopticalsystemsspecialisttosuccess-
fullyintegratealaserrangefinderintoapairofhigh-performancebinoculars.a
leicainnovationthatsetstandardsthatarestillunrivalledtoday.Nevertheless,
leicahassincecreatedarevolutionintheperfectcombinationofobservation
andrangefindingtechnologies:thenewGeovidHd-Brangefinderbinocularsfea-
tureaglobalfirst–theuniqueaBc®ballisticssystemandanintegratedmicroSd
memorycardreader.rangefindingisnowmoreprecisethaneverbefore–for
everykindofhunting.
Fig.:lEicaGEoVid10x42Hd-B
SPottiNGScoPES
leicaclearlyleadsthefieldwiththeaPo-televidseriesofhigh-performance
spottingscopes.BoththeaPo-televid82withoutstandinglight-gathering
performanceandthecompactaPo-televid65deliverimpressiveperformance
duetotheirsophisticatedapochromaticopticsandtheuseofthelatestfluoride
glassformulations–forperfectresolvingpowerwithmaximumcolourfidelity,
evenatlongdistances.Bothspottingscopesareavailableinversionsfor
straightorangledviewing.
Fig.:lEicaaPo–tElEVid82withlEicaZoomEYEPiEcE25–50xWWaSPH.
diGiScoPiNG
leicaistheonlypremiumopticalsystemsmanufacturertoofferacomplete
professionalsystemfromonesinglesource.allsystemcomponents,likethe
spottingscope,digitalcamera,adapter,tripod,andtripodheadareperfectly
matchedandensurefastandsimplemounting.Justlikeleicabinocularsand
spottingscopes,allthedigitalcameramodelsandmatchingadaptersare
manufacturedwithextremeattentiontoqualityandreliabilityandfromonly
thefinestmaterials.Forspontaneouslycapturedmomentsoffascination,
preciseidentification,ordocumentation–orsimplyforthejoyofunforgett-
ablemoments.
aFig.:lEicaX2withdiGiScoPiNGadaPtEr
lEicaaPo–tElEVid82withlEicaZoomEYEPiEcE25–50xWWaSPH.
lEicadH1triPodHEadwithalEicatrica1triPod
 lEicacamEraSaNdSPortoPticS i 137
A trademark of Leica Camera Group
‘Leica’ and product names = ® registered trademarks
© 2013 Leica Camera AG
We reserve the right to make changes in the construction, features and 
ranges without advance notice.
Concept and design: G2 Germany, Frankfurt
Product photography: Alexander Göhr and berndEBSEN photography
Author’s photography: Jean Gaumy / MAGNUM Photos
Brochure order numbers: German 91 740 I English (US) 91 741,
English (UK) 91 742 I French 91 743 I Italian 91 744, (03/2013)
Leica Camera AG I Oskar-Barnack-Strasse 11 I 35606 SOLMS I Germany
Phone +49 (0)6442 208 0 I Fax +49 (0)6442 208 333 I www.leica-camera.com
Leica Camera AG I Oskar-Barnack-Strasse 11 I 35606 SOLMS I GERMANY
Phone +49 (0)6442 208 0 I Fax +49 (0)6442 208 333 I www.leica-camera.com