Must be interview week! Hot on the heels of The Whispered Interviews Stefan Daniel we have another. Focus Numerique offers an exclusive interview with Dr. Andreas Kaufman (translated into English via Google).

Some bullet points from the interview worth noting:

• The waiting list for the Leica M type 240 is currently one year. The delivery time will be shorter at year's end.
• The new plant in Wetzlar will be completed by the end of the year.
• The next three years will see a lot of "very interesting products in the pipeline."
• New products will be announced this fall and next spring.
• Dr. Kaufman hinted that new Monochrom devices "would make sense."
• Also, "we are working on many different solutions for the full format."
• Leica will not release a DSLR camera for R lenses (they have said this multiple times now).
• The Leica Mini M campaign was a mistake: "Do not play with the M!"

Digital Focus: Tonight, you will present the award Oskar Barnack. Can you tell us the story of this award and why it is named Oskar Barnack?

This is the 33 th edition of the award Oskar Barnack. 4 years now, we have two winners: one for a young photographer under 25 years and the main prize. This year the main prize is awarded to a young photographer Evgenia Arbugaeva for a series called Tiksi. We chose the name Oskar Barnak because he was the man who had the idea of ​​using 35mm film for film photography. He created the first prototype of Leica camera in 1914 and the first picture, we still have in our archives was made with a Kodak film for the cinema, but in reverse. This man is responsible for the use of the 24x36 format photography. The idea was simple: small negative, large picture.

Digital Focus, It's been a few months since the new Leica M is on the market, what are the early returns?

The launch was made at the Photokina 2012. The production was a bit long and we started shipping in March. The early returns are the same as those we received following the announcement. This comes up most often is: "I want this device". The Leica M is set between a device referred telemetry with the possibility, thanks to Live View, use more M lenses produced since 1954, SLR lenses (Leica R, Canon or Nikon) with adapters picture or video! This is an extremely versatile tool for historical users M cameras and newcomers. We talk to some customers in Asia that does not validate the color rendering of the device but we, Asian see colors slightly differently than Europeans. This is why some silver films or some sensors are not calibrated the same way in Europe and Asia.

Finally, at present, we can not produce enough to fulfill orders, we have a waiting list of one year.

Digital Focus: Is that the new plant will reduce the waiting time?

We opened a new factory in Portugal in March this year and the new plant in Germany will be completed by the end of the year. We will use as and when the various services until the production lines will be operational. This is a delicate operation to the extent that can not abruptly stop production for the move. Anyway, the delivery of the new Leica M will be shorter at the end of the year. We hope to reduce the waiting period to three months.

Digital Focus: Do you think that something is missing in the Leica M?

With technology, there's never anything perfect. I think for now this is a perfect device. But we can always think of things you like to do. We have a huge service research and development work to develop the functions of the device. For example even here, the digital cameras are just idiots. In fact, when you take a picture, the camera does not know what we're photographing. The unit should include more. This could solve the problem of archiving. Today for amateurs and professionals, archiving is extremely time consuming. I think the devices can become smarter about this. Another example, it could be interesting and useful to develop video functions, we reflect on the subject.

Digital Focus: For a year and a half, you have launched many products: Monochorm M, M, S, X series, etc.. Will you be able to maintain this pace of new product launches?

He will not break in the launch of new products. For the next three years, we have a lot of very interesting products in the pipeline. We have something in the fall and next spring. For example, in our opinion, it would make sense to develop monochrom devices. This is the best way to shoot in black and white and more and more photographers use black and white.

Digital Focus: Is what we can expect to see in the future a new series of Leica camera: the moment are the X, M and S? My father owns a Leica R and he wondered if one day he will be equipped with a digital R.

Your father can use the Leica M with the ring for R. objectives No longer will never reflex. Since 2004, we have extensively studied the possibility of a digital R, but a technological point of view. The design objectives R is very complicated. On some targets, we lost money and this was one of the points because of which Leica has encountered problems in the past. Today we have technology without a mirror that can do everything a DSLR can do.

Digital Focus: When you started talking about the X Vario, you mentioned Mr. Mini Many people have been frustrated...

It was a mistake. It was not my idea. Leica people have learned one thing with this story: Do not play with the M! This device is an extension of the X series When we look at the goal, it is the most compact that we have created zoom. Create a zoom is compromise: we opted for an f / 3.5 - f6, 3 (which is standard) with remarkable quality and a small footprint. We could incorporate a more objective light, but the device was too big. In the end the X Vario is an excellent device.

Digital Focus: I guess you've heard about the Sony RX1. What do you think and can hope for a compact X-series one day with a sensor 24 x 36 mm Leica?

I should say no comment. But I'll enlighten you on a few points. To begin with, for consumer devices, format APS-C sensor is good. Make larger forces us to go on the 24 x 36 mm. APS-C sensors there are many on the market. In 24 x 36 mm there is much less and therefore we need to develop ourselves. For M we have developed with our sensor CMOSIS in Grenoble, France. Go to full format would probably kill the X dimension, the essence of X. But I can tell you we are working on many different solutions for the full format.

The RX1 is a good device. The problem in this industry is that the Japanese driving prices down (except for the RX1). They do not control the distribution and after 3 months on the market, a unit is already reduced after 9 months one sees a new model. We think it is very difficult to make money with this principle. We believe that only Fuji makes money because they had the good idea to copy us. Fuji's CEO said in an interview to a reporter Reporter: We are devices that resembles Leica because our customers love it!

We believe that Sony has really made a technological leap with the RX1 in a price segment that is interesting for the industry. Unfortunately, consumers are accustomed to cheap equipment and make a cheap device must use good materials market, reduce production costs, etc.. In the end, most devices are built in Vietnam and the Philippines and the final quality is not excellent.

Digital Focus: Last question. What is the Leica camera you prefer?

I usually use 2 or 3 devices. I often Monochrom with me while waiting for a Mr. I love the X Vario and I often also a small X on me that I can put in my pocket. It depends. Often when I want to travel light, I just take the X2.

Starting about three months ago, more and more people that own Leica's latest flagship lens, the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH are noticing veiling and other flare. It ranges from mild (but noticeable) veiling flare to rather startling multi-ringed flare (at its worst). There is speculation that interior blackening/flocking (baffling) of the lens - or possibly multiple silver rings/beveled element edges (visible inside the lens from the front) are causing unwanted reflections. Some are even suggesting "not to shoot into the sun" or "stick to shooting at f/2" and even the use of third-party hoods. This is quite a disheartening turn of events, considering this lens is Leica's "spare no expense" tour de force, especially considering the $7,195 USD cost.

We have reached out to our contacts at Leica, but haven't heard back yet (as several people are away on vacation). Hopefully they can comment, offer an explanation or arrive at a solution (which will be fixed under warranty) if it does turn out to be a larger issue.

Update (7/25/13): We're in contact with folks at Leica, discussing the situation.

Ironically, Erwin Puts had this to say;

...The SCR, while in itself a high contrast lens, has a certain propensity to flare. The ASCR50 on the other hand is not only flare-free, but does suppress the internal reflections and the veiling glare on small areas totally. This behavior is not only the result of the mechanical mount and its internal baffling structures, but mainly to the reduction of residual aberrations..."

But we have seen quite a few examples of this flaring, from multiple sources (and thus multiple copies of the lens). Not just random photos, but in testing and comparing it with other lenses. It does not appear to be a one-off bad lens... But whether or not it's an actual design flaw remains to be seen. While you could chalk this up to being "the nature of the beast" it's definitely not something we'd expect from a lens of this caliber. If you have a lens which has exhibited this issue, especially if you'd like to share your examples (which we will post here) - we'd like to hear from you either directly or in the comments below!

Stay tuned as we update you here on the matter...

Even before the new "Mini M" was announced, the leaked specs pointed to a "slow zoom." Once it became clear that it was actually the X Vario, many lamented the choice to produce such a lens. Turns out, there are reasons it's as "slow" as it is; namely image quality and compactness. Leica's top lens designer, Peter Karbe discusses the specifics in A Look Through the Vario-Elmar Lens.

It's worth noting that since its release, the X Vario has received practically nothing but rave reviews and the images shared have been stunning...

In the article, "11 000-square-meter campus refines the Leitz Park" we can get a good sense of what's going on over at Leitz Park - which is currently undergoing heavy construction. While the photos are a bit light (one of two shown above), the other reveals the above/below-ground café, already excavated, on what looks to be a nice, modern campus.

A rather sketchy English translation by Google:

Wetzlar. Anyone who believes that the Leitz Park is merely the simple location of three companies, which is taught with an eye on the site and on current computer images of a better. A public, tipped with bright granite slabs, 11 000 square meters large space, designed with a café, fountain and greenery, provides campus atmosphere.

Currently leveling heavy construction equipment, the area from August to start the installation work. "The place," said Wolfgang Kisselbach, CEO of competent Leitz-Park GmbH, "not only caps the new management of Leica Camera AG, together with production buildings, but also refines the previously rather simply acting building the company VIAOPTIC and Uwe Weller precision engineering."

The area on the former training area on the road from Wetzlar to casting is recognizable as belonging together ensemble. It also represents a visually attractive entrance to the city

Important part of the square is a café, whose basement is already excavated. It is 200 square meters and has an elevator. The roof extends beyond the walls so that you can sit outside in the shade.

The architecture takes on the convex-concave facade of the main building. Also underlining the planners their claim that the exceptional quality of the Leica products is reflected in the design of the Leitz Park.

"The thick granite slabs," said Engert, "also allow driving with trucks For example, are supplied heavy equipment for events.

More traffic exacerbates the risk of tailbacks on the A45 significantly

Also in the future headquarters of Leica management of construction progress is obvious. No wonder, in January, the employee will move from its current location in Wetzlar to Solms.

On the bottoms of future offices are styrofoam plates, plastic tubes snaking out to.

They are just like the concrete core part of a sophisticated, state of the art heating and cooling system that will provide with the help of geothermal and cogeneration units for pleasant climate all year round.

Walking through the huge building can even understand the basis of countless harnesses, shafts, ducts and units, how extensive is the technique that is used in the installation of the layman.

You can also get an idea of ​​the size of the future production site. Huge windows allow future visitors to witness the emergence of new Leica.

"Especially in the Asian region," said Engert, "there are a lot of inquiries in this respect, Leica enthusiasts."

For visitors from around the world - more than 50, 000 are expected per year - the company has a lot to offer with the red dot. This applies to the court, but also for the administrative building. There is a vast foyer, galleries and more than 400 square meter Leica Store.

Also on the roof of the building Leica customers may increase. From here you have a stunning view - after casting, to Wetzlar and thus the birthplace of Leica, out into the Lahn and the Dilltal, up to the windmills Hohenahr and into the adjacent woods. And equipped with appropriate optical device can exacerbate these impressions from there.

The new Leica below nearing completion. For project developers Kisselbach a feeling of relaxation could slowly adjust - if it was not for the transport links.

Already there come morning, solely by the employees of the neighboring people Mittelhessen, at the motorway exit Wetzlar-South to dangerous congestion to back on the A45, due to the traffic light at the entrance to the road to Wetzlar.

Also, the intersection of the Frankfurt street is then overloaded, especially at peak times turning left have bad cards.

The traffic load will increase substantially if the Leica 650 employees, suppliers and visitors added and if the proposed school center in the adjacent business park Spilburg is completed.

You should have the policy, particularly the country linghausen the entire area around BUEB ᠆ and take motorway into view and develop a concept that will be the future transport needs.

Lots of news recently, including the Leitz Park Update (July 2013) about what's going on over there. The Frankfurter Allgemein reports, "New headquarters of Leica can continue to grow" which adds more details as to why Leica is expanding.

A sketchy English translation by Google:

The traditional company returns to its founding place of Wetzlar. Meanwhile, there writes the Leitz Park's track record of commercial settlement continued.

The extension of the new industrial area Leitz Park, nothing stands in the way. The city has let the buildings to their former depot now stop and hand over the vacant site on the Leitz-Park GmbH. The company acts as an investor and developer of the new headquarters of the international company Leica Camera AG, which is being built with an investment of 60 million euros on the eastern outskirts of Wetzlar. Production and administration buildings form the core of the Leitz Park.

On the new land of the camera manufacturer to get ranked among others, a showground. For Leica Camera, whose tradition can be traced back to the beginnings of the mass production of the film camera 90 years ago, has a variety of documents and technical exhibits. In a kind of world experience guests and visitors from home and abroad to receive future insights into the history of the company and its products as well as in the career of the optical industry in the Middle Hessen, Germany is a leader in today. Is lined with the Leica Camera headquarters of the company buildings Viaoptic GmbH and Weller Precision Engineering GmbH, both companies for specialty products in the optical industry.

Born out of necessity

With the comprehensive approximately 15 acres Leitz Park is thus produced in the great city of 52,000 inhabitants on the Lahn, a new, prestigious location for the most important addition to the iron processing industry Wetzlar.

The Leitz Park writes it were a success story in terms of commercial settlement on, which began about two decades, and was born out of necessity. Since the early nineties was the army in the wake of troop reductions in Wetzlar, one of their largest sites in Hessen. More than 3500 soldiers and 700 civilian employees left Wetzlar. For the former Spilburg barracks, which had established the tradition of Wetzlar as a garrison town before the First World War and most recently formed the largest part of the army area, managers at City Hall designed a large-scale urban development projects with private participation.

Solms could not keep up

The result was one of the most publicized examples of successful conversion to Hesse. Service companies, supermarkets, craftsmen, schools, government agencies, nursing home, a branch of the Technical University of Central Hesse and an amusement park - all of which settled on this comprehensive 50 hectares of former military site. Around 3,000 jobs were created in converted barracks buildings and new buildings. So it was really obvious that Spilburg grounds extend to surrounding areas. The advantages of the Leitz Park, the Leica also led to the settlement, one next to a lot of space especially good transport links with the finished a few years ago Wetzlar-Süd motorway junction.

Production, management and customer service from Leica Camera have been settled in the small town of Solms near Wetzlar. There, spread over several manufacturing plants in and around Wetzlar works had been merged in the mid eighties. Last crystallized out, however, that the production conditions could no longer keep up with the increasing demands of high-technology step in Solms.

28,000 square feet in the new building

Also were complaints about lack of space. Calculations showed that reconstruction, modernization and expansion in Solms would cost at least as much as the construction of a new site. Thus, the management decided to move and soon found suitable site in the city, has its roots in the Leica.

The new building complex in future be around 28,000 square meters available, which is almost twice as much as previously in Solms. This is not only development and production benefit, but also the representation. Not least, the new building is to set standards in environmentally friendly energy supply. Thus, the complex is supplied with geothermal energy, in addition to two cogeneration plants, which should cover along with solar panels and the power requirements.

Solms (ots) - Einzigartige Ausstellungen, beeindruckende Installationen und Workshops mit international bekannten Fotografen: Auch in diesem Jahr engagiert sich die Leica Camera AG (Solms) bei den St. Moritz Art Masters, die vom 23. August bis 01. September 2013 stattfinden. Leica ist offizieller Partner des exklusiven Kunst- und Kulturfestivals, mit dem das Engadin zum sechsten Mal zum Zentrum der Kunst- und Fotografieszene wird.

Ein Schwerpunkt des Festivals sind in diesem Jahr die Fotografieausstellungen an verschiedenen Orten in St. Moritz. Im Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains (St. Moritz) präsentiert der international renommierte Fotograf Amedeo M. Turello die Ausstellung "Emotional Stories", in der unter anderem Aufnahmen von Gregor Schlierenzauer, Bruno Ehrs, Hans-Georg Esch, Steve McCurry, Joel Meyerowitz und der diesjährigen Leica Oskar Barnack Preisträgerin Evgenia Arbugaeva über ihr Heimatdorf Tiksi im Eis der sibirischen Tundra zu sehen sind. Vor dem Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains wird in einer Rotunde die Panorama-Installation "360 Grad by HG Esch" mit einer faszinierenden Rundum-Ansicht der chinesischen Hafenstadt Shanghai zu sehen sein. In der Leica Lounge im Inneren des Hotels können Besucher die neuesten Leica Produkte testen und ein professionelles Porträt-Shooting mit dem Leica S-System hautnah miterleben.

In Kooperation mit Leica Camera zeigt der in der Schweiz geborene und aufgewachsene Designer und Fotograf Rolf Sachs erstmals seine Ausstellung "Camera in Motion: Von Chur nach Tirano". Die Bilder, die das Engadin in einzigartiger Atmosphäre zeigen, sind in der Schlossereiwerkstatt St. Moritz/Galerie von Bartha zu sehen. Rolf Sachs hat mit seiner Leica Kamera die flüchtigen Momente einer spektakulären Alpenlandschaft eingefangen, wie sie sich dem Betrachter bei einer Fahrt mit der zum UNESCO-Weltkulturerbe gehörenden Rhätischen Bahn durch die Schweizer Berge bieten. Zudem präsentiert Leica Camera gemeinsam mit dem Montreux Jazz Festival die Ausstellung "Tribute to Claude Nobs - Founder of the Montreux Jazz Festival". 40 Bilder aus dem Leben des Gründers des weltweit renommierten Musikfestivals in Montreux sind im Badrutts Palace zu sehen. Im Nira Alpina Hotel in Silvaplana werden am 30. und 31. August 2013 Magnum-Fotograf Steve McCurry, Bruno Ehrs und Amedeo M. Turello Workshops zu Porträt- und Modefotografie abhalten. Die Künstler gewähren individuelle Einblicke in ihre Arbeit als Profi-Fotografen. Ein weiteres Highlight ist die Leica "Tribute to Photography" am Abend des 29. August 2013 im Hotel Kempinski.

Pressekontakt:

Andreas Dippel / Telefon +49 6442 208 403 / Telefax direkt -455 /
andreas.dippel @ leica-camera.com

And in English:

Solms (ots) - Unique exhibitions, stunning installations and workshops with internationally renowned photographer: This year, the Leica Camera AG (Solms) is involved with the St. Moritz Art Masters, from 23 August to 01 September 2013 take place. Leica is the official partner of the exclusive art and culture festivals, with the Engadine is a center of art and photography scene for the sixth time.

One focus of the festival this year, the photography exhibitions at various locations in St. Moritz. The Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains (St. Moritz), the internationally renowned photographer Amedeo M. Turello presents the exhibition "Emotional Stories" in which, among other things, recordings of Gregor Schlierenzauer, Bruno Ehrs, Hans-Georg Esch, Steve McCurry, Joel Meyerowitz and this year's Leica Oskar Barnack Award winner Evgenia Arbugaeva are about to see her home village Tiksi in the ice of the Siberian tundra. Front of the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains is in a panoramic rotunda installation "360 degrees by HG Esch" with a fascinating panoramic view of the Chinese port city of Shanghai to be seen. The Leica lounge inside the hotel, visitors can test the newest products and experience a professional portrait shoot with the Leica S-System first hand.

In collaboration with Leica Camera, born and raised in Switzerland, designer and photographer Rolf Sachs unveils his exhibition "Camera in Motion: From Chur to Tirano." The images, which show the Engadine in a unique atmosphere, can be seen in the metalworking workshop in St. Moritz / Galerie von Bartha. Rolf Sachs has captured with his Leica camera, the fleeting moments of a spectacular alpine scenery as they offer themselves to the viewer on a ride on the UNESCO World Heritage Site Rhaetian Railway through the Swiss mountains. In addition, Leica Camera presents together with the Montreux Jazz Festival, the exhibition "Tribute to Claude Nobs - founder of the Montreux Jazz Festival." 40 pictures from the life of the founder of the world-renowned music festivals in Montreux can be seen in Badrutts Palace. At Nira Alpina in Silvaplana be on 30 and 31 August 2013 Magnum photographer Steve McCurry, Bruno Ehrs and Amedeo M. Turello hold workshops to portrait and fashion photography. The artist grant individual insights into their work as a professional photographer. Another highlight is the Leica "Tribute to Photography" on the evening of 29 August 2013 at the Hotel Kempinski.

Press contact:

Andreas Dippel / Phone +49 6442 208 403 / Fax direct -455 /
andreas.dippel @ leica-camera.com

The new Leica Boutique Milano in Milan, Italy - is having their grand opening on Saturday, September 14, 2013! The boutique will be within Foto Ottica Cavour.

LEICA BOUTIQUE OPENING MILAN - Photo Optics Cavour

Saturday, September 14, 2013
h: 10.00 - 19.00

From coffee to aperitif, a full day of appointments and Leica photography:

• Workshop on Street Photography
• Reading portfolio
• All products from Leica to try together with our qualified staff

See you there!

for more information
Photo Optics Cavour
Tel 02 659 0680
gianni@fotootticacavour.it

Looks like Leica's releasing the upcoming C (Type 112) in mid-September at a list price of $699, which includes Photoshop Lightroom 5. It is based on the similar Panasonic Lumix LF1 with a design by Audi Design - and will be available in Light-gold and Dark-red (pre-order at B&H). If you're in the neighborhood, Leica Store LA has one on-hand to check out. If not, check out this review for a good sense of what to expect.

Additional Images

Specifications

Press Release

Solms, Germany, 8 September 2013: Leica Camera AG has unveiled the first model of a new line of Leica digital compact cameras, the Leica C. Small enough to fit in a pocket, the Leica C offers a sophisticated feature package in an impressively stylish design, making it the ideal camera for discerning photographers and aficionados of exquisite design.

An eye-catcher in every respect, the Leica C's impressive technical features are housed in a truly unique body. The camera's slim and stylish form results from the work of Audi Design, who was also commissioned to develop its range of exclusive accessories. A chic colour concept that underlines its simple elegance - the Leica C is available in two finishes: 'light gold', a refined combination of gold, ivory and black, and 'dark red', a classic black with burgundy tones. Its collection of innovative accessories in premium materials further highlights the unique look of Leica's new compact camera line.

Featuring a high-performance Leica DC Vario-Summicron zoom lens and an exceptionally large sensor for its class with a resolution of 12.1 megapixels, the Leica C is suitable for almost any photographic occasion and delivers outstanding imaging performance, even in unfavourable lighting conditions. The Leica C is the first Leica compact camera to feature an integrated Wi-Fi and NFC (Near Field Communication) module for the wireless transmission of image data to smartphones and tablet PCs. It also offers a wide range of camera functions, in-camera processing options and an intuitive handling concept for spontaneous photography.

Its Leica DC Vario-Summicron 6–42.8 mm f/2–5.9 ASPH. 7× zoom lens, with a range equivalent to 28 to 200 mm in 35 mm format, is extremely versatile and ideal for almost all photographic situations. The programmable ring around the lens provides even greater creative freedom. From portraits to expansive shots, such as landscapes, the combination of high-precision optics with a large sensor guarantees exceptional imaging performance and pictures with brilliant, natural colours, clarity and contrast. Thanks to its extremely fast autofocus and a continuous-shooting mode with up to ten frames per second, it captures even the smallest details. The serious photographer will be pleased by the inclusion of an integrated LCD viewfinder.

The Leica C's integrated Wi-Fi and NFC (Near Field Connection) module allows the wireless transfer of still pictures and video data to smartphones and tablet PCs via a WLAN connection. To enable this function, users simply have to download the Leica C Image Shuttle app and install it on their iOS or Android end device. By dialling into a WLAN connection, users can activate the data transfer. WLAN and the app also enable remote control of the Leica C from a smartphone or tablet PC, which is particularly useful for remote-release photography and when shooting with the self-timer.

The Leica C's full-HD video function opens up even more creative opportunities. The photographer is always in complete control during exposure and recording thanks to the camera's 3'' monitor. The integrated viewfinder is particularly effective when shooting in bright light. Videos and still pictures can be creatively processed either in the camera or with Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®.

Concurrent with the launch of the Leica C, Leica Camera is also extending its service portfolio. This provides particular benefits for Leica C customers, as they can take advantage of a secure image-archiving package as an exclusive starting offer. More details will be announced in the near future.

Designed to perfectly complement the elegance of the Leica C, Leica offers a range of innovative and superbly finished, stylish accessories. For example, the Leica C-Clutch, an elegant clutch in light gold or dark red premium Alcantara with a sandblasted metal closer, offers two separate compartments with ample space for the camera and other personal belongings. The collection also includes the Leica C-Twist, C-Snap, C-Case, C-Pouch and C-Wrist Strap.

Owner Support

The perfect introduction to their newly purchased camera, Leica C owners are invited to attend a complimentary 'Leica C Zinc Table Talk'. Offered on a weekly basis in the Leica Café Optik in Mayfair, London, the sessions will be led by a Leica Camera team member who will also be answering specific technical questions. Additional information will be available shortly on the Leica Store Mayfair website.

Included Software

Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, a professional digital workflow solution for Apple Mac® OS X and Microsoft Windows®, is included in the Leica C package. The software is available to Leica C owners as an online download after product registration.

Pricing and availability

The Leica C will be available in the UK from authorised Leica dealers including the Leica Store Mayfair starting mid-September 2013. The suggested retail price for the Leica C in light gold or dark red is £550 including VAT.

Individual accessories are priced as follows (SRP including VAT):

• C-Twist: £70
• C-Snap: £60
• C-Clutch: £110
• C-Case: £80
• C-Pouch: £60
• C-Wrist Strap: £30

The range of optional accessories will be available in the coming months.

You may recall, about a year ago, shortly after the new M was announced - we ran a story about Apple designer Sir Jonathan Ive and Marc Newson working with Leica to produce a custom, one-off special edition camera. Well, the time has come for the promised (RED) auction to be done in collaboration with Bono (the lead singer of U2) and Marc Newson. The auction will be at Sotheby's in New York on November 23, 2013 - with the proceeds going towards Global Fund to help fight AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis. The auction is a followup to the 2008 (RED) auction that raised $40 million.

Leading the auction are the two items designed in their entirety by Jony and Marc – a unique Leica Digital Rangefinder Camera, which is, in and of itself, a feat of extraordinary engineering... (more below)

Two of the world’s foremost design pioneers, Sir Jonathan Ive, KBE, and Marc Newson, CBE, have collaborated with musician and philanthropist Bono to organize a (RED) Auction celebrating the very best of design and innovation. Jony and Marc have spent the past year and a half curating the collection, which comprises objects from disciplines as diverse as space travel and lighting design to contemporary art and rare automobiles, all unified and distinguished by their excellence an innovation. Proceeds from the 23 November 2013 sale at Sotheby’s New York will benefit The Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

Sir Jonathan Ive, Senior Vice President of Design at Apple, said, “It's been a fantastic honor to curate this collection of objects with Marc for the auction at Sotheby's. Each piece represents the value of thoughtful design. What we create for each other is not only a comment on our culture but of course in many ways defines it. (RED) is making a difference in the lives of millions of people and we're humbled to make this contribution to such an important and worthy cause."

"It's been a thrilling journey for Jony and me to curate this collection of pieces that celebrate extraordinary design that we love, that transcends all boundaries of time and place. These objects were each conceived to resolve a singularly focused challenge, yet have subsequently achieved a cultural significance that's above and beyond their initial functionality. Each object and the process of creating it conveys a rich set of human values, so it seems fitting that they should be auctioned with a different sense of human value in mind, to raise as much as possible to help people's lives today," said Marc Newson. “We'd like to thank our partners for their sincere generosity and for giving so gladly and willingly.”

The auction will feature icons of design selected by Jony and Marc, works that were personally customized by the pair and, finally, two new and unique items created by Ive and Newson specifically for this special benefit event.

Leading the auction are the two items designed in their entirety by Jony and Marc – a unique Leica Digital Rangefinder Camera, which is, in and of itself, a feat of extraordinary engineering, and a unique aluminum desk produced by Neal Feay Studios. Joining these editions labeled 01/01 and specifically produced for the (RED) Auction are: a Steinway & Sons Parlor Grand Piano and a 2012 Range Rover, both customized by Jony and Marc; a unique version of Hermès’ iconic Cavale saddle created in red leather with custom red stitching; a one-of-a-kind pair of classic Apple EarPods in solid rose gold; a Russian cosmonaut suit; a pair of Damien Hirst ‘Spin Chairs’ designed by Jasper Morrison; a custom Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos “561” Clock with unique ed accents created for the auction; and a Dom Pérignon Œnothèque 1966 Magnum with custom red foil label, red ice bucket cooler and limited edition protective case.

Bono said, “When you think of Jony and Marc, you think of design which is both iconic and sublime. Those two words can be applied to the unique collection of objects on the auction block this November. Each bang of that hammer will be raising critical dollars to fight AIDS... by getting medication to mothers with HIV which means they will not pass the virus on to their newborns.”

The more than 40 auction items have been captured by renowned photographer and filmmaker Andrew Zuckerman for a limited-edition auction catalogue designed by designer and illustrator Richard Allan. The publication features introductory essays by actor, poet and author Stephen Fry and Bono, as well as commentary from Jony and Marc. The November 23 event follows the original (RED) auction held at Sotheby’s New York in February 2008, the most significant charity auction ever held, which raised over $40 million to fight AIDS in Africa. 
Organized by Bono and Damien Hirst, the auction included works donated by Banksy, Anish Kapoor, Marc Quinn, Georg Baselitz and Howard Hodgkin, among others, and set records for 17 artists.

Oliver Barker, Deputy Chairman of Sotheby’s Europe and the auctioneer for both the 2008 and upcoming (RED) auction, said, “The (RED) sale of 2008 provided the benchmark for auctions of this nature and once again we will be presenting a unique collaboration; this time with the dream-team of Sir Jonathan Ive and Marc Newson. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire objects of singular design excellence and innovation, and simultaneously raise much needed funds for the fight against AIDS.”

Highlights from the sale will travel to London and Hong Kong in advance of the sale before the entire collection goes on public exhibition in New York beginning 18 November. Learn more about the second (RED) Auction through our Twitter hashtag #REDatSothebys. Additional highlights and details to be revealed over the next several months.

Additional Images

Leica Camera celebrated the grand opening of its latest retail store, Leica Store Beijing Seasons Place Shopping Mall, on September 8, 2013. The new store is located in the Financial Street shopping center, where they bring together the world’s most sought-after brands and service. The new store covers an area of 120 square meters (about 1,200 square feet) and is the largest Leica Store in China. Customers can free feel to demo the entire range of the new Leica products, and to enjoy the excellent service at the store. The Store is also the world's first to show the new Leica C and provide trial service. In addition, this new Leica Store also features a dedicated in-store gallery and currently exhibiting the photo collection “HEARTLAND” by the well-known Magum photographer Thomas Hoepker.

Leica Camera AG has collaborated with Schloss Bensberg Classics before in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 - and now once again - in 2013. This year marks their fifth (English) such partnership!

Solms (ots) - Leica Camera AG continues its successful collaboration with the Schloss Bensberg Classics continued in 2013. For the fifth time the traditional manufacturer of cameras and sport optics products from the Hessian Solms support this classic car event the premium class, which was lifted by Leica from the baptism 2009.

Against the imposing backdrop of the Grand Hotel Schloss Bensberg in Bergisch Gladbach place from 06 to 08 September 2013 the competitions of fine classic cars held before a "Rallye Historique" for vehicles up to 1979, which crosses the through the countryside, even in the "Concours d'Elegance", in which are about 40 cars rated in 16 categories . Leica again donated a personalized trophy for the winning car in the category "Best Unrestored Condition".

Also in this year, which specializes in automotive photographer René Staud Photography will put the Leica S system participating in the Concours vintage jewelry site individually scene. To a mobile studio will be installed for Staud and his team specifically for the event. The classic portraits are presented on Sunday from 10 clock in their own exhibition in the ballroom of the Grand Hotel Schloss Bensberg and passed to the Concours entrants with.

Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Board of Leica Camera AG: "Historic vehicles offer many car enthusiasts a unique fascination and are characterized by precise craftsmanship and aesthetic perfection in detail These are properties and values ​​for the Leica brand for almost 100 years. stands. extent, it is only logical to photograph classic cars with such a long tradition as Leica products manufacturer, which has manufacturing, technical perfection and outstanding, timeless design written on the flags. "

Leica Camera AG supports more events like this to convey the joy of high-quality Leica products for classic car collectors and friends. Many cameras of the brand itself become coveted collectors' items due to a special design, a special limited edition or because of their particular historical context.

The Schloss Bensberg Classics (short: SBC) will take place from 06 to 08 September. Guests and participants will have the opportunity to inform the Schlosshotel Bensberg about the latest Leica products every day.

Tomorrow, September 12, 2013 at 10:30am (local time), the doors to the new Leica Store Florence will open! The neighborhood is great; right on Golden Lane, just a few steps from Ponte Vecchio. The Leica Store Florence will not just be a commercial space, but also a place where photo enthusiasts will find photographic exhibitions, meetings with some of the most significant contemporary photographers, photography workshops and lectures.

The original text, in Italian:

Grande novità per Leica in Italia: da domani, Giovedì 12 settembre 2013, alle ore 10.30 apre i battenti a Firenze, nella splendida cornice di Vicolo dell’Oro, a due passi da Ponte Vecchio, il nuovo Leica Store Firenze.

Uno spazio dedicato a tutti gli appassionati di fotografia dove toccare con mano e testare tutte le fotocamere e gli obiettivi che con la propria straordinaria qualità hanno reso leggendario il “bollino rosso”. Dalla nuova dalle straordinarie Leica a telemetro come la Leica M e la rivoluzionaria Monochrom, passando per i mitici obiettivi Leica, fino alla nuova Leica X Vario e – in anteprima nazionale – la nuovissima Leica C.

Il Leica Store Firenze non sarà però solo un punto commerciale, ma anche un luogo dove gli appassionati di fotografia troveranno esposizioni fotografiche, incontri con alcuni tra i più significativi fotografi contemporanei, momenti di confronto con i professionisti della fotografia, workshop fotografici e letture portfolio.

E per festeggiare questa nuova apertura, il 10 ottobre 2013 sarà possibile incontrare presso il Leica Store Firenze uno tra i più grandi fotografi mondiali. Seguiteci su Leica Lab per tutti i dettagli. Vi aspettiamo quindi da domani nel nuovo Leica Store Firenze!

The translated text (via Bing!):

Great news for Leica in Italy: from tomorrow, Thursday, September 12, 2013, 10.30 a.m. opens its doors in Florence, in the splendid setting of the Golden Lane, just a few steps from Ponte Vecchio, the new Leica Store in Florence.

A space dedicated to all lovers of photography where touch and test all cameras and objectives with its extraordinary quality have made the legendary "red dot". The new Leica rangefinder with extraordinary as the Leica M and the revolutionary Monochrom, passing the legendary Leica lenses, until the new Leica X Vario and – national preview – the all-new Leica C.

The Leica Store in Florence will not be only a commercial point, but also a place where photo enthusiasts will find photographic exhibitions, meetings with some of the most significant contemporary photographers, moments of confrontation with professional photography, photography workshops and lectures portfolio.

And to celebrate this new opening, October 10, 2013 it will be possible to meet at the Leica Store Florence one of the greatest photographers in the world. Follow us on Leica Lab for full details. We then from tomorrow in the new Leica Store in Florence!

At The Digital Show 2013 in Melbourne, Australia our friend Kristian Dowling was lucky enough to meet up with Leica Camera CEO, Alfred Schopf and Leica Camera Managing Director of Asia Pacific, Sunil Kaul. They not only exhibited six of his pictures taken with the Leica M (type 240) at the event, but gave him a chance to ask a few questions. They cover the direction of Leica, the new Leica C camera, the newfactory and even mentioned the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH issue that we covered.

It's a short piece, but well worth a read, as there's a lot of interesting and timely information. Some highlights include:

• Leica M (Type 240) shooters especially like the familar handling, higher ISO and Live View capabilities
• Leica aims to stick to their core values; superb optics, optimizing sensors and ease of use
• Alfred Schopf publicly acknowledged the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH issue
• They aim to move Customer Care into the new facilities by the end of the year
• ...and plan to move production some time around late May of 2014
• ...Which celebrates 100 years of Leica, 60 years of the M-System and their new factory
• More product announcements and Photokina to look forward to!

This Friday, September 20, 2013 at 10:00am (local time), the doors to the new Leica Boutique Genoa, Italy (located within Totalfoto) will open! This opening follows hot on the heels of the Florence store and Milan boutique earlier this month.

We look forward to you celebrating with us the inauguration of the Leica Boutique Genoa. A whole day dedicated to Leica products with our qualified staff on-hand and photographic gear to try and see them in action.

Come and visit with us, many surprises await you!

Leica Boutique Genova (at Totalfoto)
Via Brigata Bisagno 40r-44r
16129 Genova, Italia
+39 010 8566452
info@totalfoto.it

Manager Magazin Online reports on the winners of Entrepeneurs of the Year 2013 (in German) which is essentially a list of six categories and judged by Ernst & Young of outstanding medium-sized companies that impressed by sustainable growth, innovation and community involvement. Leica Camera AG was one of those six, taking the "Consumer Goods Industry" category:

Category Consumer Goods Industry: Andreas Kaufmann and Alfred Schopf, Leica Camera AG, Solms / Hesse. Since 1913 builds unique Leica cameras for advanced photographers. Today Leica is an international premium manufacturer who has mastered the leap from analog to digital photography.
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Also been nominated as the German representative to the international competition "World Entrepreneur of the Year 2014" Andreas Kaufmann and Alfred Schopf with Leica Camera AG. The award ceremony will take place on 7 June 2014 in Monte Carlo.

Translation into English (via Google):

The "Entrepreneur of the Year" have been announced in six categories Ernst & Young honored outstanding medium-sized companies that impressed by sustainable growth, innovation and community involvement.

Frankfurt - The accounting and consulting firm Ernst & Young (EY) each year recognizes outstanding entrepreneurs as "Entrepreneur of the Year". At the gala event at the Alte Oper Frankfurt, the winner of the 2013 competition were honored on Thursday evening. 58 companies had qualified for the final round, six of them were excellent and are now allowed to use the title "Entrepreneur of the Year 2013 '.

In addition to sustainable business, the award winners are characterized by innovative technologies and strong customer loyalty. Moreover, they are aware of their social responsibility and are involved in social projects.

The Entrepreneurs of the Year 2013 are:

• Category Capital Goods Industry: Michael Marhofer, ifm electronic GmbH, Essen. With more than 100,000 customers in 70 countries worldwide, the family provides for the optimization of technical processes and is now considered the world leader in sensors.
• Category Consumer Goods Industry: Andreas Kaufmann and Alfred Schopf, Leica Camera AG, Solms / Hesse. Since 1913 builds unique Leica cameras for advanced photographers. Today Leica is an international premium manufacturer who has mastered the leap from analog to digital photography.
• Service Category: Alfred Keschtges and Kai F. Wißler, invenio Group, Rüsselsheim. Founded in 1986 as a design office, is now a Invenio industry operating across full-service engineering services for all phases of the product development process.
• Category Commercial: Walter Ulrich, Ulrich Walter GmbH, Diepholz / Lower Saxony. As one of the first in the organic industry Ulrich Walter has created an ecological vision and social responsibility, the market leader for tea, coffee and spices in organic quality.
• Category Information and Communication Technology / Media: Peter Samuelsen, Thomas and Stefan Köhler greaves, Novomind AG, Hamburg. The software provider counts in the areas of e-communication, e-commerce, product information management and marketplace integration of the technology leaders in Europe.
• Start-up Category: Saskia Biskup and Dirk Biskup, CeGaT, Tübingen. CeGaT specializes in the molecular diagnosis of genetic diseases and revolutionized in just four years, the decoding of genetic information and its interpretation.

Also been nominated as the German representative to the international competition "World Entrepreneur of the Year 2014" Andreas Kaufmann and Alfred Schopf with Leica Camera AG. The award ceremony will take place on 7 June 2014 in Monte Carlo.

2nd Part: Honorary Award for Family goes to Graf von Faber-Castell

For the second time, a prize for family business has been awarded: to be honored for exemplary performance of a family company, which is in a special way for sustainability, value orientation and the acceptance of social responsibility because of its tradition. The prize for family's 2013 Count Anton Wolfgang von Faber-Castell.

The Faber-Castell AG, with its more than 240-year history, one of the oldest family businesses in the world. It is now run by the eighth generation of Count Anton Wolfgang von Faber-Castell. Was presented the prize by Florian Langenscheidt, said in his guest lecture in front of guests at the Alte Oper on the "luck of setting up".

The competition

The "Entrepreneur of the Year" honors business excellence by an independent panel in different categories - worldwide in 60 countries, in Germany in 2013 to 17 The time of the audit and consulting firm Ernst & Young (EY) organized competition is supported by well-known companies and media: These include HSBC, Jaguar, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung and the manager magazin. Besides honoring successful entrepreneurs, EY promotes the program "Entrepreneur of the Year Junior Academy" entrepreneurial talent.

Leica has today released firmware v2.0.0.11 for the Leica M (Type 240). This firmware update includes a huge list of improvements and bug fixes over the previous v1.1.0.2 released back on March 1, 2013. Unfortunately, there is no support for the VF-4 EVF in this release.

Firmware Update M (Type 240) v2.0.0.11
Instruction Firmware Update M (Type 240) (PDF)
Improvements Firmware M (Type 240) (PDF)

The list of fixes and improvements in firmware v2.0.0.11 (over the previous v1.1.0.2) are:

Improved performance of the white balance

The accuracy of the white balance presets and the auto white balance function is higher with version 2.0.0.11. This results in better skin tones and better general colour rendering.

Improved Video quality

The visibility of compression artifacts is reduced due to lower video compression.

Lens calibration

For coded Leica lenses, the image homogeneity (colour shift) has been improved.

General fixes

• Improved stability using Live View, both with and without EVF-2
• Issue with display settings in combination with “Sharpness high” - fixed
• Issue with exposures after switching the camera on - fixed
• The “Auto Power Off” function showed unexpected behavior - fixed
• The recording dates for video files have been incorrect occasionally - fixed
• Issue with Copyright and Artist Information in EXIF Data - fixed
• Improvement of general system stability
• Several minor bug fixes

In photography, lenses often play an unassuming role in capturing the moment. But unknown to most, lenses interpret the light streaming into the camera and have an important part to play in shaping the photo. Peter Karbe, Chief Optical Designer with Leica Camera AG (since 2002), will deliver a one-night-only seminar to discuss the challenges met through the years of optics design and how Leica has stood at the forefront to maintain itself as the world's leading lens designers for cameras. Karbe, you may recall, was instrumental in the introduction of the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH, Noctilux-M 50mm f/0.95 ASPH, Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH and X Vario/Vario-Elmar lenses.

You are invited to join us and learn more about optics with Peter Karbe. Limited slots are available for this seminar.

Mittelhessen.de reports, Andreas Kaufmann Receives Honorary Gift of the City (in German). The honorary gift of Wetzlar is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the social, political and economic development of the city, and has been awarded 49 times to date. This time it was Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of Leica Camera AG who was due to receive it. In a ceremony on October 8, 2013 (Tuesday) at the Palais Papius, city mayor Wolfram Dette said of Kauffmann, "You are a person who has left a mark in Wetzlar... and made an outstanding contribution to the improvement of this business location, to securing and creating jobs, urban development and not least, through its capital contribution in difficult times." About 100 million Euros were invested in Wetzlar, and the development of the city was affected most positively with the creation of the new Wetzlar Park headquarters.

Translation to English (via Google):

Wetzlar. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Board of Leica Camera AG has been awarded on Tuesday at the Palais Papius with the honorary award of the city of Wetzlar. "This award means a lot to me," Kaufmann said before the magistrate receiving numerous guests.

"You are a person who has left its mark in Wetzlar., You have to look Wetzlar adjusted and brought forward new," said Mayor Wolfram Dette (FDP) in his speech. Kaufmann had "made an outstanding contribution to the improvement of the business location, to securing and creating jobs and urban development" - not least "through its capital contribution in difficult times." About 100 million euros of investment in Wetzlar, the development of the city were affected positively.

Since 2002, the Salzburg Kaufmann have been involved over the ACM project development GmbH in Wetzlar optical precision engineering companies. This included 2002 Uwe Weller precision engineering in Wetzlar, 2003 VIAOPTIC GmbH in Wetzlar since 2004, Leica Camera AG, Solms.

This company had at that time can be reorganized in a difficult economic situation by the personal and financial commitment businessman and his ACM project development GmbH. "You have had the vision that the unique Leica technology has a future," the mayor stressed. At the same businessman had realized his vision of the traditional company attributed its origin back to Wetzlar.

He had the Leitz Park GmbH - a 100 percent subsidiary of the ACM project development GmbH - founded. This bought by the City of the Leitz Park site in Spilburg and developed initially for the Uwe Weller Precision Engineering GmbH VIAOPTIC and the new building.

With the construction of Leica Camera AG, which is currently underway, creating jobs for over 600 employees in Wetzlar, a particular highlight will also architecturally set. "Here we see a special signature, that was your concern," Bernadette said. The connection with the city of Wetzlar've already brought Kaufmann reflected in the fact that he had designed the roundabout at Leitz-Park with a globe in front of the Hessentag at his own expense. "This commitment is unparalleled," Bernadette said to the applause of those present.

This is only possible when entrepreneurs such as Kaufmann have a personal connection to a city. "This is something special," said Bernadette.

In the third phase in the Spilburg - on the site of the former city official operating a Leica world is planned - Bernadette sees "a great opportunity for tourism." Every year, more than 50 000 international visitors are enticed to Wetzlar. "This makes the whole ensemble look Wetzlar revive" the town hall boss. Even at a time when the Leica Camera AG was in the consolidation phase, Kaufmann had also joined the Viseum Club and have financially supported the realization of the exhibition. Kaufmann also have a new company in Wetzlar - CW Sonderoptic - founded the developed world with a staff of 25 lenses for film cameras for the movie industry and manufacturing.

"We need a good staff, clean finances, especially something that provides the charm," the former Waldorf teacher Andreas Kaufmann said in his acceptance speech. "I have an awareness of this region," said Salzburg, the "something special again" announced for the third phase of construction.

The gift of honor of the city of Wetzlar is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the social, political and economic development of the city. She has been awarded 49 times to date.

You may recall that on Tuesday we brought you the story, Leica (RED) M Revealed! (which we've also updated) about the collaboration between Apple designer Sir Jonathan Ive and Marc Newson to produce the Leica (RED) M camera, set to auction on November 23, 2013 via Sotheby's. The pair have selected or made more than 40 objects for an auction to benefit Bono’s (of U2 fame) Product (RED) anti-H.I.V. campaign. Meeting with Newson and Ive, Paul Goldberger explores the shared obsession and philosophy behind everything from iPhones to jumbo-jet interiors in Vanity Fair's "Designing Men" article.

On November 2, 2013 - Stuttgart, Germany will see its first Leica Boutique open, located at Photo Planet (across from the central train station). It will be headed by Mr. Rudi Arndt. To celebrate, they will hold a "VIP Evening" event on November 5, 2013 with a talk by Mr. Dipl. Ing. Stefan Thonesen (a longtime employee of Leica Camera GmbH and photographer) and will cover the Leica M and X Vario cameras. Soft drinks will be served. The event is free, but space is limited and you are requested to register if planning to attend. The details are:

Participation fee: 0,00 € (incl. VAT)
Location:Planet Photo - Otto Nehrkorn Gmb, Arnulf-Klett-Platz 3, 70173 Stuttgart
Date: November 5, 2013 @ 7:30pm
Duration: 7:30pm - 9:30pm (approx. 120 minutes)