This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Leica M series, one of the most beloved devices in Leica’s history. Not only has the Leica M series impacted the way cameras are made today, but it has also captured some of the most iconic moments from human history. To further celebrate this iconic milestone, Leica announces two new editions of its iconic products: the Leica M11 and the refreshed Leica 50mm Noctilux in the Black Paint Edition.
Leica M11 With a Touch of Black
The company announces a new glossy black paint version of the Leica M11 and the Leica Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH. The Leica M11 is an exceptional camera, and in our review, we appreciated its ability to shoot at three different resolutions in one.
So, why is this edition great? Glosssy black paint variants have been much sought after by photographers as the color tends to wear off with each use, revealing the brass underneath. This gives black paint cameras a unique finish that no other chrome-painted camera can achieve. The gold shade of the brass and receding paint make the camera appear like a family heirloom.
The Leica M11 is an exceptional camera, and in our review, we appreciated its ability to shoot at three different resolutions in one.
The first camera to launch in black paint was the MP at Photokina in 1956. The company produced only 412 units, of which 141 were black-finished. The latter soon became a trend among photojournalists, who wanted a camera that looked distinct and offered exceptional quality and speed. In fact, it was at the suggestion of LIFE photographers Alfred Eisenstaedt and David Douglas Duncan that Leica created the MP. A serial 2 number camera of the same was also shipped to press photographer Bob Schwalberg, which may have begun this trend.
The new Leica M11 features a brass top plate, dials, and an on/off switch with a glossy black finish. The ‘Leica’ engraving and a silver button have also been designed to keep the M series camera. The shutter and ISO dials have fine cross knurling, while the camera also removes the iconic Leica red dot.
Revival of an Iconic Lens
The glossy black paint Leica Noctilux-M 50 f1.2 ASPH is sold separately. The lens is quite iconic and has been loved by many. For the unversed, the Noctilux 50mm has three variants: the f1.2, the f0.95, and the f0.95 “titanium edition.” First introduced in 1966, the lens was the world’s first serially produced lens to feature two aspherical elements, says Leica. The f1.2 aperture made it an ideal choice for many who wanted to make images in low light. Noctilux, in English, translates to “light of the night” and was designed by Helmut Marx. In 1976, Dr Walter Mandler launched an f1 aperture version, which is no longer available, and in 2008, it was replaced by f0.95, designed by Peter Karbe. The Noctilux is a lens for M mount, which is like a beloved camera for many professional photographers.
We happened to test the 2021 version of the lens, and we did note that there is no innovation as such since it is a refreshed version of a classic. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t great. It has 16 aperture blades, far more than modern lenses offer. “Let’s cut to the chase — the Leica 50mm Noctilux f1.2 is a $7,695 lens (or $16,395 for the special edition silver color). There are technically superior 50mm lenses with better edge sharpness and minimal vignetting for less than half the price. But, photographers looking for vintage lenses aren’t looking for technical superiority: they are looking for character,” we wrote.
In addition, the company is launching three new accessories: a carrying strap, the M11 protector, and the M-System case. All of them are made of cowhide leather and will be available in taupe. The Leica M11 glossy black paint edition is available for $9,195, while the Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 is priced at $8,295.
What Do We Think?
The Leica M11 is an exceptional camera, and in our review, we appreciated its ability to shoot at three different resolutions in one. Similarly, the lens is quite exceptional as well. If you have already purchased the two devices, then you can skip this edition. However, if you want to switch from older Leicas, this news comes at a great time.
The revival of old lenses comes at a time when new lenses are becoming more sterile; a refreshed version could offer some respite for those who can afford it. Perhaps this is also why Canon, Nikon, and Fujifilm look into their treasure troves and remake some classic film camera lenses, which could be helpful for many users.
As manufacturers find it hard to distinguish their devices from their competitors, it becomes increasingly important to take some time and pump more resources into research, just the way Leica does. This is the best way to innovate while giving users a chance to look forward to the new releases. Cameras, after all, are not like phones and should be replaced every year. So, why are we running to prove that is the case?