leica broshure

LEICA C-LUX 2

The small yet powerful companion

LEICA DIGILUX 3

New adapter for Leica R lenses

LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900

The new generation laser rangefinder

LEICA SPORT OPTICS

100 years of Leica binoculars

US $ 4.50 CAN $ 5.50 01/2007

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Leica News 3

04 LEICA DIGILUX 3R lens adapter. Focal lengths from 15 to 1600 mm – the new R adapter provides Leica’s new FourThirds SLRcamera with some unique possibilities

08 LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900More speed, easier to use. The new generation laser rangefinder – extremely compact, up to 902 yardsprecision, brilliant even during twilight

10 LEICA C-LUX 2Intuitive photography made easy.High-tech miniature – the C-Lux 2 is the indispensable companion for everyphoto opportunity

15 100 YEARS OF LEICA BINOCULARSInnovation based on tradition. Ananniversary to be proud of – Leica sportand hunting optics have been settingtechnological standards since 1907

18 LEICA M8Digital rangefinder photography. Onthe road with the M8, Elmarit-M 28 mmf/2.8 ASPH and UV/IR filter – the handy, top-of-the-line combination fortravel and reportage

22 M LENSESSuper wide-angles. The Tri-Elmar-M16-18-21 mm f/4 ASPH and UniversalWide-angle Viewfinder M – the flexible,high-performance duo for extreme picture angles

Dear friends of Leica,

For over 30 years, I have been an admirer of Leica; both as a photographer and as acollector. It has brought me a deeper appreciation of what great minds and hands canaccomplish when they are really passionate about their cause. The men and women ofLeica have brought incredible joy and reflection to all those who invested in it and they continue todaySince September 2006 it has been a real pleasure for me to be on the leadership teamof Leica Camera. As the new Chief Executive Officer it is my task to define the strategicroadmap of the company in cooperation with the entire Leica team and a group of newleaders with their wealth of intensive industry experience.

There are three main goals for us:__ Leica Camera has to deliver results to its stakeholdersincluding customers and partners. __ Leica Camera has to reinforce its heritage and marketposition to be a fitting custodian of a great tradition, and__ Leica Camera has to expand its horizons so it can bringthis experience to even more customers and markets.We will not only keep pace with our industry, but delivernew experiences that are uniquely ‘Leica’. We are thinkingabout serving even more customers, those who buy newLeica’s as well as those who have had them for a long time.Think of the expansion of the system as an expandedproduct line that will contain new camera bodies, lensesand accessories to broaden Leica’s reach and impact. We

have a clear vision of the future of our company. The new majority ownership structuregives us the right framework to get the job done by enabling a long-term financialperspective as well as a real partnership that shares our personal passion for the Leicaproducts, markets and people.The direct communication with our valued customers will always be a crucial elementfor defining Leica’s future. We are starting to do a lot more to understand what yourneeds are in photography and sport optics. Serving you in a way that suits your needsin the months and years to come is the key to our success. Therefore, we will continueto count on your support as well as your advice and counsel. Enjoy reading this issueof Leica News and I hope it will give you a glimpse of the exciting products we areoffering to you today.

Yours sincerely

04 LEICA DIGILUX 3

18 LEICA M8

10 LEICA C-LUX 2

Steven K. Lee

Steven K. Lee, CEO

IMPRINT

LEICA NEWS

Is published twice a year in spring and autumn

PUBLISHER

Leica Camera AG, Oskar-Barnack-Straße 11, D-35606Solms, Germany Tel. +49 (0) 6442 208-111

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Leica Camera AG: Alexandra Althof

REALIZATION:

IDC Corporate Publishing GmbH Hamburg, Germany

15 100 YEARS OF LEICA BINOCULARS

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4 Leica News

D SYSTEM: R ADAPTER FOR LEICA DIGILUX 3

The Leica D System, which revolves around the LEICA DIGILUX 3 – a high-performance

digital single-lens reflex camera based on the FourThirds Standard – is reaching for the

stars. Thanks to the R Adapter, the Digilux 3 can now access the complete spectrum of

Leica R lenses, with focal lengths ranging effectively from 30 to 3200 millimeters.

AT PHOTOKINA 2006, Leica introduced abrand new camera system to the field of digital single lens reflex cameras: the LEICA DIGILUX 3, heart and soul of the new Leica D System. It is based on the open FourThirds Standard, the firststandard devised exclusively for digitalsystem cameras and interchangeablelenses. The LEICA DIGILUX 3, with acombination of innovative functionalityand simple handling, embodies the classic

Leica virtues: the Digilux 3’s 7.5-megapixelLiveMOS sensor is capable of running a real-time viewfinder picture on the display; all camera and lens parameterscan be set manually for total creativecontrol; and the new camera system picksup on the clear design of Leica’srangefinder system. The eyepiece islocated on the left of the camera body toensure compactness. This was madepossible thanks to a first-class porroprism

viewfinder which, although the cameracleverly conceals it, provides an authentic,sublimely clear single-lens reflex viewingsystem. The LEICA DIGILUX 3 is shippedwith a zoom lens – the LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14–50mm f/2.8–3.5ASPH – with an optical image stabilizer and a precise autofocus system. This exquisite optic boasts outstanding picturequality together with a versatile range of focal lengths.

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Leica News 5

Dramatically expanding the LEICA DIGILUX3’s field of operation, the newly developedR-ADAPTER is an intriguing option for all of those with access to lenses from theLeica R System. This brilliant accessoryallows the LEICA DIGILUX 3 with Leica Rlenses, one of the most powerful 35mmoptical systems in the world.Since FourThirds Standardimage sensors are smallerthan those found in 35mm photography, theLEICA DIGILUX 3 willalter the angles of view projected byLeica R lenses; this is because the cropfactor – also knownas the lens factor or, misleadingly, the ‘focal lengthextension factor’ –corresponds to a valueof 2. This factor ismultiplied by the markedfocal length of a lens inorder to create a hypotheticalreference lens for the 35mmphotography standard. In otherwords, when mounted on the LEICADIGILUX 3, a Summicron-R 50 mm f/2 willhave the coverage of a 100 mm telephotoin traditional 35 mm format.The adapter ring locks onto the LEICADIGILUX 3 just like a lens, endowing thebody with a fully functional R bayonet. The camera will now be compatible with any R lens on the market. All control elements, including the velvety-smooth distance and aperture rings,remain perfectly accessible. In addition to its many exposure and flash-related

functions, the LEICA DIGILUX 3 alsoprovides aperture priority and manualexposure control capability with the R-Adapter, making for a well-integrated and

comfortable photographic approach. The camera focuses using the vivid matte screen in the viewfinder or theLiveView function on the camera monitor, where an optional sectionmagnifier helps you to evaluate subjectdetails more easily.The exposure meter reads at workingaperture for maximum accuracy, while thebright viewfinder and high-speed Leica R

lenses continue to provide a reliableassessment of the picture even when youstop down. In any case, the legendaryability of Leica R lenses to deliver top performance at wide-open apertureremains one of the foremost reasons for using them on the LEICA DIGILUX 3.

The LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14–50mm f/2.8–3.5 ASPH

already covers a broad focallength range, from wide-angle

to moderate telephoto.However, the R adapternow introduces the LEICA DIGILUX 3 to anunexplored universe ofexciting photographicexpressions, particularlywith regard totelephotos. The broadrange of the Leica R

lens system coverseverything from 15 to

800 – add a telephotoconverter and its reach

will be extended to as much as1600 millimeters!

A few examples, representing the extensive palette of both current

and older Leica R lenses, serve toillustrate this point.The LEICA SUMMILUX-R 50mm f/1.4mounted on the DIGILUX 3 will turn into anexcellent portrait lens with an equivalentfocal length of 100 millimeters. Theimpressively wide maximum aperture of f/1.4 yields a very shallow depth of field and facilitates the creative use ofselective focus and blur. The lens is alsounusually compact and matches the LEICA DIGILUX 3 ergonomically as well as visually.


6 Leica News

The LEICA APO-MACRO-ELMARIT-R100mm f/2.8 introduces the LEICADIGILUX 3 to the world of macrophotography, reaching a reproductionscale of 1:2 even without additionalaccessories. In other words, with theDigilux 3 the lens will reproduce an objectthe size of the 35mm film plane in fullframe and dazzling quality. Since the Apo-Macro-Elmarit-R 100mm f/2.8 willalso transform into a high-speed telephotothat corresponds to a 200mm f/5.6 in the35mm format, it’s the perfect lens forclose-up as well as distance natureobservations.The LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-R 80–200mmf/4 ingeniously complements the LEICAD VARIO-ELMARIT 14–50mm f/2.8–3.5ASPH, the standard zoom lens for theLEICA DIGILUX 3. Together they cover the complete spectrum from wide-angle to super telephoto. The angle of view

of the compact Leica R lens willcorrespond to that of a 160–400mm zoom lens.Finally, should you ever get your hands onthe unique LEICA APO-TELYT-R MODULESYSTEM with its focal lengths ranging from 280mm to 1600mm (1600mm withthe LEICA APO-EXTENDER 2x attached),the LEICA DIGILUX 3 will blow you awaywith extreme telephoto focal lengths of upto a 3200mm (35mm format equivalent)This is fantastic news for wildlife andnature photographers.The adapter itself is hand-made inGermany, with solid, chromium-platedbrass bayonet mounts. These areprecision-cut and prevent the camera andlens from getting damaged. The adaptersports the same bayonet spring found inthe LEICA R9, while the inside is finishedoff with a matte black varnish to preventflare and stray light effects.

Those who give the R adapter a try will be amazed how well the LEICA DIGILUX 3and the Leica R lenses complement each other visually, ergonomically andfunctionally. Before you use the adapterand Leica R lenses all you have to do is gointo the LEICA DIGILUX 3’s program menuand set ‘NO RELEASE WITHOUT LENS’ to‘off’. The LEICA DIGILUX 3 is compatiblewith all lenses produced since 1963 except the Super Angulon-R 21 mm f/3.4.The adapter itself is slim, inconspicuousand will barely show when an R lens is attached – a seamless continuation ofthe lens’s design concept. It effectivelyunites the best attributes of two greatsystems that are each unique in their own way; a modern, versatile andinnovative digital single-lens reflex camerais opened up to the world’s foremost SLR lenses. The result is greater than the sum of its parts.

LEICA SUMMILUX-R 50 mm f/1.4 – with the Digilux 3 it turns into a brilliant 100 mm portrait lens, where selective

sharpness allows for playful creativity


Leica News 7

LEICA APO-MACRO-ELMARIT-R 100 mm f/2.8 –a fine macro lensfor reproduction scales of up to 1:2

LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-R 80–200mm f/4 – adapted to the Digilux 3, breathtaking 160–400 mm telephotos are possible


8 Leica News

LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900

No bigger than the palm of your hand, the RANGEMASTER CRF 900 outshines the

previous generation of Leica’s laser rangefinder – it’s faster and handier.

A GAME HUNTER has to estimate greatdistances of up to several hundred meterswith great accuracy if he expects to hit his target. This is the domain of laserrange meters, which will measure thedistance of an object based in the time it takes for light to reach it, that is, at light speed. A laser beam will traveltowards an object at 186.228 miles persecond, at which point it is reflected backto the range meter at the exact samevelocity. The running time light takes tocomplete this curcuit can be measuredwith such accuracy that it will facilitate an extremely precise calculation ofdistance: light will travel a distancer of one meter – back and forth – in a mere 6.7 billionths of a second. The latest model from Leica’s Rangemaster series,the LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900, willmeasure distances ranging from 10 to 902yards and has been so miniaturized that it will now slip into any shirt or trouserspocket. The carbon-fiber reinforced plastic shell encases an aluminum chassis

and weighs as little as 7.8 oz. Itaccommodates a 7x24 monocular, theelectronic components, and the laseritself. The control button – the rangemeter’s only control element apart fromthe diopter dial on the eyepiece – is easily accessible with your index fingerwhen you hold the meter in your hand. The LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 isdesigned for right and left-handed usersalike and can easily be used with gloves.Temperatures of 14 to 131° F will notinterfere with its functioning and neitherwill water – the device is waterproof to adepth of one meter. Pressing the buttonactivates it; the LED display adapts itself tothe ambient light and reflects a targetindication into the optical path of themonocular, which accurately reports thedistance registered by the laser. Pressingthe button a second time triggers aninvisible, harmless infrared laser, and a split second later the measured result is displayed in meters or yards, dependingon the model.

The Leica name traditionally stands forsuperlative optical performance, and sothe development engineers were obligedto construct an uncompromising opticalsystem for the Rangemaster too. TheLEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 is aspowerful as a good pair of binoculars.Leica decided to implement a mirrored,clearly decipherable LED display, allowingthe Rangemaster models to be used not only as precision measuring devicesbut also as valuable monocularobservational instruments. The LCD’sfrequently found on many competitivelaser rangefinders reduce the lighttransmission by more than half, makingthem practically useless in bad light. Holding the button down, the LEICARANGEMASTER CRF 900 will repeat themeasurement at half-second intervals.Since the device is only really operatingwhen reading the environment, very little power is needed so a single CR2lithium battery will give about 2000measurements.

Perfect aim: the LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 has an exceptional lens which delivers precise readings up to 825 meters/902 yards


Leica News 9

Front lens diameter 24 mm

Magnification 7x

Exit pupil 3.4 mm

Twilight factor 13

Field of view at 1.000 yds 347 ft

Diopter compensation +/- 3.5 dpt

Prism system Roof prism with phase correction coating P40

Dimensions (WxHxD) 4.5x2.25x1.25 inch

Weight approx. 7.8 oz. with battery

Watertightness Watertight to a depth of 1 m/3.2 ft (0,1 bar)

Housing Carbon fiber-reinforced composite material

Range 10 to approx. 902 yards

Accuracy +/- 1 to 400 yds, +/- 2 to 800 yds, +/- 0,5 % over 800 yds

Read-outs LED display with four digits, automatic brightness control

Measuring time Maximum approx. 0.9 s

Laser Eye-safe invisible laser according to EN and FDA class 1

Laser beam divergence 2.5x0.5 mrad

RANGEMASTER CRF 900: SPECIFICATIONS

The LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 can beput to use in a variety of applications.Hunters can determine the distance of an animal in unfamiliar terrain, estimatethe odds of a hit, and adjust the rifleaccordingly. Sailors can determine thedistance to buoys and other landmarks,while architects and landscape planners

It was during an ibex hunt in the Tien Shan Mountains ofKyrgyzstan, where the LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 reallycame into its own. On one occasion a buck was standing high upon a ledge, and my guide urged me to shoot, but I didn’t. The manonly calmed down once I showed him what the range meter hadto say: ‘493 yards’. On another occasion a guest hunter fired atan ibex on a high mountain pass. The poor thing scuttled offlimping. This accident could have been prevented if only I’d had afew seconds to measure the distance between us and the animal,which we determined to be 453 yards. During the followingsearch mission – which was unfortunately fruitless – at analtitude of 4757 yards, I made another astounding discovery:there was a rock wall which I estimated to be 400 to 550 yardsaway, but the distance turned out to be beyond the range of the laser – that’s how far off the wall was. It seems that, at extreme heights, the human eye is a lot less trustworthy than one would think.My mountain hunting expedition led to the following realization:the optical system of the LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 can beused for most wildlife observations, especially in the daytime,when it will deliver an immaculate view without having to dealwith twilight or darkness. The 7x enlargement and the large viewimage generate a brilliant picture ideal for the majority of hunting

RAY OF L IGHT: THE RANGEMASTER CRF 900 IN THE F IELD

purposes, easily satisfying my needs in terms of magnification,clarity and contrast. I frequently chose to work with the rangemeter instead of the 10x42 binoculars – at least when I neededto orient myself quickly – but that’s not to say that it’s a completereplacement for a hunting scope.I had a lot of fun working with the LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900.I used it to revise distances I had previously estimated in myhome hunting grounds, and I believe it will turn out to be anindispensable instrument in future hunting trips abroad.Especially in remote places, where more often than notcommunication is a problem, the guest hunter can quickly obtainessential information provided by the laser device, refrain from taking unreasonably long-range shots, show the evidencewhy and ultimately avoid terrible accidents.Last but not least, here’s a little tip: you’ll probably carry the range meter, hanging around your neck, inside itsprotective case. With the adrenaline of the moment, it canhappen too quickly that you pull the meter out to take a quick lookat the game and drop the protective case by accident – and the last place you want that to happen is when you’re hunting on horseback , as one does in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. So don’t be like me: secure the case to your belt with a second strap! P R O F. D R . K U R T F I T Z L E R

can survey a landscape – at a range of 400 yards the LEICA RANGEMASTER CRF 900 will measure with an errortolerance of ±1 yard. Of course, therange meter can be used for a lot morethan topography: you could just as easily check the height of your kite anddiscover whether it has become a hazard

to aircraft; clouds will also reflect the lightof the laser, and so you could determinetheir height as well, provided that they’re within the reach of the LEICARANGEMASTER CRF 900. All in all, it’s an amazingly accurate, versatile, andcompact device built to the legendaryLeica standard.

Small, light, robust and waterproof: theRangemaster CRF 900 is the perfect huntingcompanion, where maximal performance is

expected from a minimal amount of equipment


10 Leica News

THE LEICA C-LUX 2 IS SMOOTH –such a delight to the touch, in fact, that youmay have a hard time putting it down. Itsdiminutive, elegant metal body, shownhere actual size, sports the most advancedcamera technology available today and is capable of creating brilliant imagesunder all photographic circumstances.The high-speed LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT4.6–16.4 mm f/2.8–5.6 ASPH lens coversa focal length range of equivalent, in 35mm terms, to a 28 to 100mm zoom.This makes the LEICA C-LUX 2 one of the most versatile performers in the super-compact class. The LEICA C-LUX 2comes perfectly equipped for just aboutany photographic scenario, from dynamicwide-angle shots with great depth offield to expressive portrait photos with selective focus. The VARIO-ELMARIT zoomlens retracts entirely into the camera bodyat the flick of the ‘off’ switch. Whether you’re a partygoer, beachcomber, citystroller or nature lover, the LEICA C-LUX 2is always a dependable companion – anytime, any place, you’ll never miss another

photo op. This hassle-free camera willgenerate outstanding results even whenyou choose to focus your attention on the subject rather than the photographicparameters.A generous 2.5-inch LC display lets you concentrate on the composition whilethe LEICA C-LUX 2’s clever automaticfunctions handle the rest. Fast, discreetsnapshots captured on the fly, or picture-perfect compositions at twilight or in othertricky conditions – everything is possiblewith the LEICA C-LUX 2, a truly naturalextension of hand and eye. The new imagesignal processor, originally developed forLeica’s new digital SLR camera Digilux 3,based on the FourThirds System, alsohelps endow the LEICA C-LUX 2 with arapid response speed and a highly preciseautofocus mechanism – ideal for capturingthat critical moment in an unforgettableimage. What’s more, there’s an innovativefeature of the LC-display which ensurestotal control over the composition at alltimes: when you activate the wide-angle

mode in the menu, the polarization of theliquid crystals alters, adapting the displayimage to the view angle. In other words,even if you’re holding the camera at anawkward angle above your head or nearthe ground, the display will always providea clear and radiant viewing image.The camera flash can either be set to automatic mode for fuss-free shots, or manual mode for targeted fill-inpurposes. With the integrated opticalimage stabilizing technology Mega O.I.S.,you can also choose to bypass the flash unit and safely create atmosphericavailable-light photos at shutter speeds as low as 1/15 second, without the risk of blur due to camera shake. Another technical standout is the camera’sautomatic exposure regulation withIntelligent ISO, which was first introducedwith the high-end bridge camera, theLEICA V-LUX 1, and has now been realizedin the super-compact LEICA C-LUX 2.Thanks to Intelligent ISO, the camera willindependently identify motion, regulating

POINT AND SHOOT

Small, unassuming, yet powerful: the LEICA C-LUX 2 is a slick, pocket-friendly camera

that’s ready for just about anything.

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Leica News 11

Exposure type/format 1:1/2.5-inch CCD sensor with 7.2 million effective pixels (at edge ratio 4:3)

Resolution (max.) 3072 x 2304 pixels (4:3 format), 3072 x 2048 pixels (3:2 format),3072 x 1728 pixels (16:9 format)

Dimensions(WxHxD) approx. 94.9 x 51.9 x 22 mm/3.7x2x9 inch

Weight approx. 154 g/5.4 oz. (with battery and SD card)

Lens LEICA DC VARIO ELMARIT 4.6–16.4 mm f/2.8–5.6 ASPH (equals 28–100 mm in 35 mm photography)

Sensitivity Automatic, Intelligent ISO or manual ISO 100, 200, 400,range 800, 1250 (and ISO 3200 in high sensitivity mode)

Shutter speed-range 8–1/2000s (in auto mode)

Display Polycrystalline 2.5-inch TFT colour display with 207.000 pixels

Storage medium SD card, MultiMedia card (only for stills photography)

Delivery package Charger, battery, 64-MB SD memory card, AV cable, USB cable,AC cable, textile wrist strap, CD-ROM with Software (Adobe Photoshop Elements 3/4/5, QuickTime MoviePlayer)

Warranty 2 years

MSRP 549 US-Dollars

LEICA C-LUX 2: SPECIFICATIONS

The LEICA C-LUX 2 blends simple handling with ingenious technology in an elegant,

pocket-sized body. The 7.2-megapixel sensordelivers crisp picture quality

the sensitivity of the sensor accordingly(up to ISO 800) to select a faster shutterspeed. Mega O.I.S and Intelligent ISOtogether enable the LEICA C-LUX 2 toproduce sharp photographs even indifficult lighting conditions. Of course,Intelligent ISO can also be deactivated atthe click of a button should you want toenhance your composition with a dynamicmotion blur effect. In any case, the LEICAC-LUX 2’s 7.2-megapixel sensor allows you to print your photographic results inexcellent quality at up to 8x10 inch.This high level of image quality isparticularly important for bird watchersand wildlife observers, who can use theLEICA C-LUX 2 together with the LEICATELEVID spotting scope to snap theirdiscoveries in the world’s forests andmeadows. Simply connect the LEICADIGITAL ADAPTER 2 to the eyepiece of the scope, fasten the LEICA C-LUX 2 to theadapter – and voilà! Economical, high-performance ‘digi-scoping’ equipment forfantastic nature studies.


12 Leica News

Whether it be a technolicious accessory for late nights out on the town, a super-lightweight traveling companion, or a reliable instrument for avid ornithologists, the LEICA C-LUX 2is a real sharp shooter. A high-quality leather bag from Leica’saccessory range, available in black, cognac brown or red, ensureseffective as well as elegant protection from incidental knocks andbangs. The camera is optionally available with a correspondingwristband or – even better – a carrier strap with convenientaccessory pouch for two additional SD memory cards. Or you canopt for the sporty black neoprene jacket – big protection for thesmallest camera with the red dot, which naturally comes with theLeica two-year warranty.

Atmospheric available-light photography thanks to the image stabiliser

The 28-mm starting focal length offers dynamic wide-angle photography The integrated flash will brighten the picture with real flair

The sporty neoprene bag fromLeica’s accessory range provides

ultimate protection for the C-Lux 2 – rapid camera access guaranteed

Elegant leather cases are available in red, cognac-brown or black, as well as

corresponding wrist straps or carrier strapswith pouches for two SD memory cards


Due to the phenomenal response generated by the landmark Leica M8, the world’s first and only professional-grade digital rangefinder camera, and the recent upsurge in interest in theclassic analog Leica MP and M7, Leica is rewarding the legions ofloyal Leica fans by extending two popular promotional programsuntil June 30 2007. Both the 6-bit Coding Promotion, and the Leica $500 Gift Certificate Program offer substantial savings to Leica M users like you, making it easier than ever to savor thejoys of the legendary M system while optimizing your picture-taking performance.

The 6-bit Coding Promotion: Bring your lenses up to the M8 standard!

As you probably know, all new Leica M lenses now have a 6-bitcode applied to the bayonet ring, enabling the Leica M8 to iden-tify the lens in use and optimize its digital capture parameters. To provide dedicated Leica M users with a timely opportunity to upgrade their existing M lenses by adding the 6-bit code atminimal cost, Leica Camera USA has initiated a time-limited pro-motional program that has now been extended to June 30, 2007.When you purchase any new Leica M lens from an authorizedUSA/Canadian Leica dealer from now to then, you will receive

Don’t miss our special promotions: “The 6-bit Coding Promotion” and “The Leica $500 Gift Certificate” are limited to June 30 2007. For complete details please go to www.leica-camera.us

T WO GREAT LEICA DEALS

EXTENDED BY POPUL AR DEMAND

Whether you’re into digital, analog, or both we’ve got something very special for you!

2 free vouchers—worth $125 each—entitling you to upgrade yourexisting Leica M lenses by adding the 6-bit code. To take advan-tage of this exciting limited-time program, you must register yournew Leica M lens and submit any rebate claims within 30 days ofpurchase. For detailed instructions and a list of applicable lenses,please go to www.leicacamerausa.com.

The Leica $500 Gift Certificate: Get a fantastic deal on a timeless classic!Here’s great news for Leica fans: Leica has extended its specialpromotion on the highly esteemed classic analog Leica MP andM7 cameras to June 30, 2007! Purchase a brand new MP or M7 in black or silver finish from an authorized USA or Canadian dealer from now until that date and you will receive a $500 Leica

gift certificate valid for one year. Will you opt for the Leica MP, thequintessential mechanical rangefinder camera that leaves alldecisions up to the photographer, or the brilliant Leica M7 withelectronically controlled shutter and two mechanical speeds thatgives you the choice of aperture priority of manual exposuremodes? It’s a tough decision—unless you choose both! To receiveyour Leica $500 Gift Certificate, you must register your camerawithin 30 days of purchase. For complete details please go towww.leica-camera.us.

The 6-bit code applied to the bayonet ring enables the Leica M8 to identify the lens in use and optimize its digital capture parameters

The Leica M7 and Leica MP–two highly-esteemed, classic analogcameras. Be sure to get your $500 Leica gift certificate

Leica News 13


14 Leica News

THE LEICA M8, the heart of the world’s first and onlyprofessional-grade digital rangefinder system, is an incrediblyadept and intuitive camera that lets you make the transition todigital perfection as seamlessly as possible. And in keeping withLeica’s time-honored tradition of non-obsolescence, the M8allows you to make full use the incredible digital imaging potentialbuilt into your existing Leica M lenses. However, the best way ofmaximizing the potential of both the camera and its unparalleledoptical array is to gain an in-depth understanding of all theamazing capabilities built into the M8 system, and a preciseknowledge of how to use them. That’s why we’ve initiated the Leica M8 Digital Workshop Tour and staffed it withknowledgeable, factory-trained experts to provide you with theultimate hands-on learning experience.To assure that you’ll be getting the most effective instructionpossible, each workshop is limited to a 15 people, and will betaught on a or high-end notebook.

Topics covered will include:

__ Camera orientation__ Configuring your computer__ Understanding the digital process from capture to output__ Introduction to exposure-measuring techniques__ Organizing and storing your images__ Troubleshooting and maintenance

TAKE YOUR LEICA M8 TO THE MAX!

Sign Up for the M8 Digital Workshop Tour!

HEREWITH A L IST OF LEICA M8 DIGITALWORKSHOP CIT IES AND DATES:

New York City, NY March 17, 2007, Saturday

Salt Lake City, UT March 31, 2007, Saturday

Chicago, IL April 5, 2007, Thursday

Portland, OR April 11, 2007, Wednesday

Seattle, WA April 14, 2007, Saturday

Denver, CO May 2, 2007, Wednesday

Phoenix, AZ May 5, 2007, Saturday

Irving, TX May 11, 2007, Friday

New York City, NY May 19, 2007, Saturday

Costa Mesa, CA June 1, 2007, Friday

Culver City, CA June 2, 2007, Saturday

Palo Alto, CA June 7, 2007, Thursday

Monterey, CA June 9, 2007, Saturday

Locations & Dates are subject to change. For more locations please visit www.leica-camera.us

The cost for this comprehensive hands-on course is $280per participant, but we think you will agree, its value isimmeasurable! For more information and to sign up, pleasego to www.leica-camera.us

Howard Goldstein and Scott Geffert head up the Center for Digital Imaging, Inc. (CDI) and direct the ‘M8 Digital Workshop’: gain an in-depth understanding of all the amazing capabilities built into theM8 system, and a precise knowledge of how to use them

The Leica M8 Digital Workshop program was conceived and willbe supervised by Howard Goldstein and Scott Geffert who headup the Center for Digital Imaging, Inc. CDI is an internationalconsulting organization that has, for a decade, been in theforefront in assisting leading corporations and cultural institutionin migrating to digital content creation, asset management andstorage, and multi-purpose distribution.


Leica News 15

100 YEARS OF LEICA BINOCUL ARS

See more and see better when your eye roams the horizon; for over

a century observation instruments by Leitz and Leica have consistently been

the cream of the technological crop!

1910 | Leitz Marinodoce 12x60

YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCE IT foryourself – that incredible sensation ofclarity when you look through a pair ofLeica binoculars. Words will, at best, paintan incomplete picture, as a pair ofUltravids, Duovids or Geovids will push the boundaries of human perception inawe-inspiring style. Here are a few of themany technologies involved in bringingoptimum performance to Leica binocularsin the world of hunting and sports: glasstypes with anomalous partial dispersion;aspheric lenses; superior chromatic lenscorrrection; patented multilayer coatingsHDC; and the HighLux System (HLS). All ofthese are the result of a 100-year history ofcontinual innovation and improvement,enhancing the knowledge of how to createprecision optical instruments – each ofthem a masterpiece in its own right. The success story began on 14 May 1907,following a three-year period of researchand development when the opticalfactories of Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, which hadpreviously specialized in the production ofhigh-quality microscopes, introduced theBinocle 6x18 – their very first own-brandbinocular. Instead of relying on theexpertise of other manufacturers Leitzdecided to take an uncharted course right from the start, basing the design onits own optics-related patents. Theseincluded safety measures against dust andhumidity, as well as special adjustmentprocesses and prism suspension systems.The Binodal 6x21, introduced a year later,had a lens spacing extending beyond thatof the 6x18 predecessor. The cap of theprism casing connected the two lens tubesat both the front and back, giving a unique

wave-like design. A structurally identicaldevice was then manufactured under thename Militaris 6x21 for the military of theformer German Empire.It was the requirement of producingbinoculars to military specifications thatlargely drove the company’s innovations inthe field of binocular and telescopeconstruction, all the way through to theend of World War II; as a leading Germanoptical manufacturer, the viscissitudes ofthe time were inescapable. The year 1910saw the introduction of a new line ofbinoculars with increased magnificationpower such as the Marinodoce 12x60. The Marinodoce was also recommendedas a specialist glass for Alpine expeditions.Its unusual shape led to a curiousnickname: ‘Leberwurst’ (Liver Sausage) – asomewhat unfortunate title for a pair ofbinoculars defined by superb ergonomicsand what was then an exceptionally broadfield of vision of 53 degrees!The German military not only demandedtop performance from binoculars, theyalso had to be rock solid and extremelyrugged. And so, in 1911, Leitz developedthe Aviodix 10x50. Its optical design wasbuilt according to the Porro-II principle,with a cast body and prism drum. The lenstubes were made of solid brass. In 1916,the 7x50 version followed quickly on itsheels. The following year, these so-called‘brass glasses’ were produced in greatquantity for the military and proved to beexceedingly robust. The Aviodix binocularsthat endured World War I and ended up inthe hands of collectors remain in mintcondition – at least when it comes tooptical quality – without ever having been

1907 | Leitz Binocle 6x18

1908 | Leitz Binodal 6x21


16 Leica News

1958 | Leitz Trinovid 7x42

cleaned or readjusted. It was Leitz whogave the Porro-II principle its big break;this type of binocular was destined to beused by various naval forces around theworld right up to the 1960s. In 1931 the Aviodix went out of production,with the arrival of significantly lighter class of binoculars based on the Porro-Iprinciple. It was then that Leitz also beganresearching into lens and prism coatings in an attempt to increase the lighttransmission of the entire optical systemand create a richer viewing experience.After 1945, development for militarypurposes became secondary. Leitz beganconcentrating on optical devices for game hunters, reflecting the the personalambitions of Dr Ernst Leitz II who, in 1925,had not only given the go ahead for thethen revolutionary Leica I camera, but wasalso a passionate hunter, giving him a greatincentive to nurture great innovations inthe field of binocular and telescope design. The year 1956 saw the introduction ofelegant new broad-vision binoculars,based on patents from 1949 and 1953. The Amplivid 6x24 was to pave the path fora new groundbreaking series of roof prismglasses. It offered a record 75-degree field of vision or, expressed differently, 212 meters at 1000 meters range. Today,broad perspectives like these are rare,making the Amplivid a desirable and usefulcollector’s item.Two years later, the first Trinovid went intoseries production – another milestone inthe history of Leitz telescopes andbinoculars. The 7x42 and 8x40 Trinovidspicked up where the Amplivid had left off,sporting fields of vision of 70 and 80degrees respectively. What’s more, they

brought together the three innovations towhich they owe their name: exceptionallycompact and ergonomic design thanks toroof prisms, above-average optical powerand, most important, internal focusing.Before then, the focusing on binocularshad always been controlled by rotating theeyepiece in and out. The Trinovid was thefirst design in which only one lens groupmoved internally, while the exteriorremained unaltered.The production costs of first-generationTrinovids were exorbitant, resulting inlimited production batches. This is whythey are a rare and much sought-aftercollector’s items today. However, one giant leap deserves another: a monocularTrinovid was used on the Apollo-11 missionto the moon.Leitz’s pocket-sized sports optics initiallymet with great skepticism, as did allcompact binoculars at that time. However,the first 8 x 20 C and 10 x 22 were a forceto be reckoned with. In addition tooutstanding optical performance andinternal focusing, they also adopted the new, eyeglasses-friendly eyepieces – a rubber mount that enabled the user toregulate the distance between the eye andthe lens while looking through spectaclesand binoculars at the same time. Theselittle Trinovids were launched in 1975, andimmediately became a sales hit.Meanwhile, the full-size models were alsobeing developed. Leitz explored in greatdepth how to maximize contrast andbrilliance, as well as eliminate unwantedflare and perfect the mechanism as awhole. Third-generation Leitz Trinovidswere water pressure-tight and didn’t fog up. Beginning in 1988 the name

1956 | Leitz Amplivid 6x24

1917 | Leitz Aviodix 10x50


Leica News 17

1992 | Leica Geovid 7x42 BD

2002 | Leica Duovid 8+12x42

was changed to Leica and all binoculars since then have been marketed under the Leica name.Four years ago Leica introduced theUltravid series: precision instruments that could stand up to extreme conditions.Ultravids ranging from the 12x50 BR to the 8x20 BL provide a uniquecombination of cutting-edge ergonomics,sharpness, twilight performance and color accuracy.The 2002 Duovid series is likewiseremarkable: Duovids 8+12x42 and10+15x50 are the only high-end binocularsin the world with two zoom settings.Conventional binoculars are only capableof a variable zoom function by using anoptional attachment booster – whichresults in a loss of optical quality. Leicaopted for a different route, creating opticaldevices with two fixed settings, eachproviding outstanding picture quality. As aresult whether you select a steadier viewwith a broader field of vision or a highermagnification, a Duovid will deliverexceptionally brilliant detail rendition.Leica’s optical engineers had alreadypulled off one pioneering achievement a good decade earlier, having combinedhigh-performance binoculars and a laser rangefinder in a single compact unit.In 1993 Leica unveiled the first-generationGeovid with a range indicator reflected into the eyepiece using simple LEDs. The alternative LCD technology would have generated a milky layer across the field of vision, i.e., brightnessreduction. The current Geovid modelswere introduced in 2004 and are still oneof a kind. The Geovid 8x56 BRF is designedto deliver optical top performance in

poor lighting conditions, while the GeovidBRF 42 is exceptionally versatile androbust. Both have become indispensabletools for anyone – particularly hunters –requiring utmost precision in viewing and measuring.Whether you consider the classic Trinovid,the extreme-use Ultravid binoculars, theinnovative Geovid, or the flexible Duovid, itis evident that all Leica binoculars andtelescopes reflect a 100-year-old tradition.This means allowing perpetual innovationto drive the limits of technical possibilitiesto the cutting edge, while advancingperformance characteristics, such asresolution, contrast, color reproductionand image brightness – with instrumentsthat set new standards. The next time you pay your nearest Leica dealer a visit,try this simple test. Bring a Leicabinoculars up to viewing position and letyour eyes wander into the distance. Whenyou are moved by the simple desire, tokeep on looking and never put them down,you’ll understand what the century-oldheritage of Leica binoculars really means.

1975 | Leitz Trinovid 10x22 C

Leica Camera AG is celebrating its anniversary ‘100 Years LeicaBinoculars’ with a traveling exhibitionof classics, milestones and rarities of binocular and telescopedesign. Find more information on exhibition venues and dates atwww.leica-camera.com.


18 Leica News

PHOTOGRAPHY BUFFS around theglobe are witnessing a long-standingdream come true with the arrival of thelandmark LEICA M8. Leica rangefinderphotography has finally gone digital, andthe result is nothing short of breathtaking.Leica M photographers have always loved certain things about their optical and mechanical masterpieces, and now,with the advent of the LEICA M8, these unique characteristics have beenbrought forward in fully realized form into the twenty-first century. While thecamera’s interior shares few componentswith its predecessors, experiencedfollowers of the Leica M system will findthemselves in familiar territory with thedesign and the control elements of the LEICA M8. Newcomers will findthemselves spellbound.

Most important of all, the legendary LeicaM lenses can continue to excel in a new, digital format, delivering unmatchedsharpness and contrast even at fullaperture along with their inimitable bokeh,which renders out-of-focus image areaswith an agreeable smoothness whilemaintaining formal accuracy. Speaking of legendary, let’s not forget the Leica M’s relationship with the

35-millimeter focal length. Countlessworld-famous reportage photos takenusing a Leica M and a 35 mm lens have helped to mold our collectivephotographic consciousness. The 35 isthe established ‘ideal focal length’ toexpress close proximity, catapulting youinto the thick of the action while keepingthe photographic effect natural. But bearin mind that for technical reasons thedigital image sensor of the LEICA M8 is alittle smaller than the 35mm film frame,yielding a 1.33 crop factor. This factor isused to calculate the effective angle ofview of any given focal length mounted onthe LEICA M8. In other words, the newuniversal lens for the digital rangefinderformat is a 28 mm, which is equivalent inangular coverage to a 37mm lens in the35mm format.

LEICA M8: DIGITAL RANGEFINDER PHOTOGRAPHY

APPROACHES PERFECTION

The M8 and Elmarit 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH: A simple but immensely powerful tool for

reportage and travel. And with the new UV/IR filters, the quality just got a whole lot better.

The LEICA M8 together with the most compact of all Leica M lenses, the Elmarit-M28 mm f/2.8 ASPH


Leica News 19

Leica developed and introduced a moderninterpretation of the universal reportagelens at the same time as the M8: the LEICA ELMARIT-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPHmeasures only 30 millimeters in length and is the most compact M lens everproduced, giving M photographers anunprecedented degree of mobility alongwith superlative picture quality. Last but not least, the lens is a real bargain,making the LEICA M8 and LEICA ELMARIT-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH combo a highlyattractive solution for those now wantingto enter digital M photography. Photographer Maike Harberts traveledthrough Mexico with the LEICA M8 and theLEICA ELMARIT-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH andfound that that this light, compact outfitworked wonders in giving her a responsiveand hassle-free traveling experience. And

her photographs speak for themselves –the pictures on these pages are defined by their superior sharpness and vastcontrast range. What’s truly remarkable isthe way the deep shades and highlights

continue to reveal detail even underextreme lighting conditions. The LEICA M8also masters challenging night shotseffortlessly at high ISO settings; thepictures contain very little noise, but

instead exhibit superior detail renditionwith no flare effects.Achieving performance of this caliberrequires the finest selection of cutting-edge components at every level of theimage-formation chain. The lens, the LEICA ELMARIT-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH,represents the topmost level. Like all LeicaM lenses currently on the market, the new28 mm dazzles with exceptional detail and sharpness qualities at all aperturesettings. Thanks to the high-quality coatingof critical lens elements, stray light effectsthat lower contrast are almost completelyavoided. The surface coating of the back element is crucial, as it prevents straylight from bouncing around in between the lens and sensor thus degrading thereproduction quality. Almost all M lensessince 1954 have had this coating, while

The LEICA M8 masters extreme contrasts brilliantly, finely defining the shadows and the highlights


other companies awaited the introductionof the digital exposure medium to put suchmeasures into effect.Another remarkable feature distinguishingthe LEICA M8 from other digital cameras isthe clarity and purity with which the sensorcaptures images. Storing pictures in DNG format – the LEICA M8’s raw dataformat for highest quality pictures – you’ll be surprised to discover just howlittle postproduction the pictures require. And the less the image is processed, the less quality is lost. The picturesgenerated by the sensor of the LEICA M8are spectacularly noise-free, makingsuppression measures largely redundant,particularly at lower ISO levels. The images

require next to no post-sharpening either, resulting in a natural photographicimpression virtually unrivaled in the worldof digital cameras.This exceptional clarity is also due to the absence of an anti-aliasing filter –effectively, a blur filter – as well asemploying an extra-thin, restricted infraredband-pass filter, which doesn’t affect the sharpness or contrast. In theoverwhelming majority of cases, the new LEICA M8 will give outstanding visual quality. Occasionally, however, thereproduction suffers color displacementcaused by infrared light. Dark syntheticfabrics in particular can reflect the infrared percentage of light excessively,

causing a subtle magenta tinge known asinfrared contamination. To counteract this, Leica has decided toprovide, free of charge, every LEICA M8purchaser with two external infrared band-pass filters, to be threaded ontothe lens. The new LEICA UV/IR filter blocks infrared as well as ultraviolet lightand is substantially more effective than any internal filter at sensor level could ever be. Unwanted light rays aredeflected and do not reach the lens. As a result, the lens’s ability to controlstray light improves perceptibly. Mostimportantly, infrared rays no longer causecolor displacement or contrast reduction.Regardless of the circumstances, the

20 Leica News

The LEICA M8 and Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH combination also put on a convincingperformance for night exposures: sharp and with a minimal amount of noise


Leica News 21

Even without post processing, the LEICA M8 delivers high class image data. Combined with the Elmarit-M 28 mm f/2.8 ASPH it is the ideal tool for reportage work

UV/IR filter will only improve the picture.Every owner of a LEICA M8 will be sent two complementary UV/IR filters oncethey register their camera on Leica’shomepage at http://m8registration.leica-camera.com/snr_en.php, and provide aserial number and postal address. You can then order two of five differentfilter sizes in black or silver, and Leicapromises to send them off as soon aspossible. Additional filters can bepurchased at specialized Leica dealers.Leica’s infrared band-pass filter works on the interference principle. This meansthat the more obliquely the light rays strikethe filter, the more the color of theemerging light is altered. Short focal

lengths of 35 millimeters and belowrequire the resultant color shift to be compensated accordingly, while long focal lengths require less extensivecompensation. Leica also plans to releasea firmware update for the LEICA M8 this coming March, designed to correctand improve the picture before it is stored to chip. Fortunately, all new lenses already carry Leica’s patented 6-bitencryption, which is a requirement for this firmware, and Leica Customer Servicewill update most older lenses for a 125-US-Dollars fee.The current firmware version (1.091) isavailable under ‘Updates’ at www.leica-camera.com/photography/m_system/m8/,

where you’ll soon also find the eagerlyawaited infrared update; it includes an installation manual and can easily be installed by users themselves. Firmware version 1.091 also boasts a few bonus features in addition to bugfixes; for example, the picture previewcan be set to display the file name along with important exposure data.Furthermore, Leica has optimized the color reproduction for users of AdobeCamera Raw. In true Leica style, what was already an outstanding product has been improvedby ceaseless research and development.The resultant LEICA M8 is already beinghailed as a classic.


22 Leica News

M SYSTEM: THREE ULTRA - WIDE FOCAL LENGTHS INONE GREAT NEW LENS!

The LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21 mm f/4 ASPH. broadens the range of the Leica M system

with three new wide-angle focal lengths, covering sensational perspectives of 107 to

90 degrees (35 mm format) and 90 to 75 degrees (M8 digital format). It is complemented

by the brilliant and precise LEICA UNIVERSAL WIDE ANGLE VIEWFINDER M.

and enrich the visual language ofrangefinder photography with unique newcapabilities. M8 owners get the chance toexplore the angles of view of traditionalLeica M (super)-wide-angles 21, 24 and 28millimeters with a single superlative lens. The LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21mm f/4ASPH is comprised of ten elements inseven groups and yields incredible wide-angle power in an exceptionally compactpackage. This is possible thanks to theingenious integration of two asphericsurfaces, as well as a clever new lensthread system that accommodates either a sun hood or an E67 filter. The result is a lens with a favorably small mountdiameter. The patented thread secures the sun hood or filter mount with a precise click, thereby providing accuratepositioning of the index point for theaperture setting.In addition to the aspherics, the lensincorporates three elements made ofspecial glass with anomalous partialdispersion guaranteeing the highest levelof image correction and, consequently,outstanding performance parametersacross the board – at all aperture settings!To attain this performance level in theclose-up range, Leica’s engineers havedeveloped an exclusive internal focusingmechanism for the LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M

16-18-21mm f/4 ASPH. When focusing,only the cemented group (lens elementsthree and four) moves in relation to the other elements; the rest of the lens remains stationary with respect to the image plane. This focusing groupacts essentially as a corrective floatingelement, counteracting curvature of field at all aperture settings – one of the greatest challenges in optimizing theperformance wide-angle lenses at shortdistances. Curvature of field is an inherentcharacteristic of all lenses, especiallywide-angles, and is due to the fact that the steeply curved lens elements by naturegenerate a bent image. Correcting thisdefect entails meticulously adjusting theinterplay of lens elements to produce a flatimage on the film or sensor. However, it isin this aspect that the LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M16-18-21mm f/4 ASPH has been correctedto perfection, pushing the close-focus limitbeyond the 0.7 meters dictated by therangefinder mechanism to 0.5 meters. Thissetting is arrived at by turning the focusingring past a subtle resistance point, markedin gray on the focusing scale. Even at thissetting, the lens will still yield outstandingreproduction, with crisp sharpness andradiant contrast from the center to thecorners of the image. What’s more, theengraved depth-of-field scale is calibrated

Mounted on the LEICA M8, the new Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21 mm f/4 ASPH provides

the photographer with classic super-wideangles on the Leica M system: 21-28 mm

The LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21 mm f/4 ASPH delivers brilliant reproduction across

the image plane at all ranges: here, the most extreme 16 mm setting on the LEICA M7

THIS NEW LEICA LENS representsnothing less than an optical revolution. Tobegin with it provides the first 16 mm focallength in the M lens system. What’s more,a simple twist of the adjustment ringmakes available two additional super-wide-angle settings — all in a mount hardly bigger than that of the compact 75 mm Apo-Summicron-M. The LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21mm f/4 ASPHopens up new vistas in classic Leica Mphotography, providing unprecedentedpossibilities of visually interpreting space and perspective. Whether you’re striving to make a unique a architecturalstatement, exploring of interior spaces, orexperimenting with mind-boggling close-ups, the LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21mmf/4 ASPH will give wings to your creativity


from behind specs. Last but not least, the LEICA UNIVERSAL WIDE-ANGLEVIEWFINDER M features a fluorescently lit,easy-to-see leveling screw – an invaluableaid when adjusting your Leica M forprecisely framed architecture shots.The LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21mm f/4ASPH and LEICA UNIVERSAL WIDE-ANGLEVIEWFINDER M form a harmonious unit, andit’s now available as a set at an attractiveprice. Of course the lens and viewfinder canalso be purchased separately if you prefer.

individual bright-line frames for each fieldof view – a first in the long and illustrioushistory of Leica viewfinder attachments.Its sophisticated optical design resemblesthat of the Leica M; a thumb wheel with alock-on position on the topside of therobust aluminum body serves to select thebright-line frame, and a second one is usedto adjust the parallax compensation at anyof the five field settings. To accommodatethe extremely wide angle of view requiredby the 16 mm field frame line, an asphericelement was used to keep that the size of the viewfinder attachment withinreasonable limits. An achromaticallycorrected element serves to generate abrilliant viewing image free of diffusion and flare. Eyeglass wearers need not worry either – the ergonomic viewfinder provides a clear andcomplete view even

down to 0.33 meters – and the depth offield will stretch from this point to infinityby setting the hyperfocal distance at16mm and f/22. The superb performanceof LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 16-18-21mm f/4ASPH’s internal focusing system couldonly be achieved with an unprecedenteddegree of precision, since the focusingelement moves across a distance of only0.4 millimeters to get from minimumdistance to infinity!This optical-mechanical masterpiece calledfor the development of a brilliant newfinder to match its performance. Indeed,the new viewfinder is really a necessitywhen using the Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21mmf/4 ASPH since there are no viewfinderframes corresponding to these focallengths in the LEICA M7 or the LEICA M8.Because it is such an essential accessorythe new LEICA UNIVERSAL WIDE-ANGLEVIEWFINDER M was designed to facilitate ascrupulous adjustment of the imagecomposition at all five field angles – 16, 18and 21mm for analog and 21, 24 and28mm for digital. The new finder displays

The LEICA UNIVERSAL WIDE-ANGLE VIEWFINDER M is an optical-mechanical

masterpiece, featuring bright-line frames forfocal lengths 16, 18, 21, 24 and 28 mm

Leica News 23


24 Leica News

Information: Make sure you’re alwaysup-to-date and sign up and receivereminder emails that will automa-tically notify you each time somethingnew is added to the e-magazine.www.leica-camera.us

Illuminated – e-magazine for nature loversThe Leica e-magazine for nature observation offers a profoundinsight into exploration, as well as conservation projects andphenomena from the world of flora and fauna. In Australia, birdsrecently began dropping dead from the sky – for no apparentreason. Polish beskidy wolves, on the other hand, are on the rise; despitea life in conflict between Polish natural heritage and Slovak gamehunting, the population count is steadily improving, along withtheir image. Believe it or not, peculiar red rags play an interestingrole in this process.Our report on the common raven in Maine in the recent issue isall about ethology. Meet a scientist who spends entire weekendssitting in trees taking scientific notes in the freezing cold. BerndHeinrich, the doyen of raven research, reports from hisgroundbreaking revelations in the field of animal intelligence –and planning behavior. Come and see for yourself!

NEW : ONLINE MAGAZINE AT LEICA -CAMERA .US

The e-magazines are updated once a month at www.leica-camera.com. This is

where Leica talks about current subjects and discloses useful product and field tips,

keeping photographers, hunters and nature lovers in the know.

Focused – e-magazine for photographers Once a month, this e-magazine accompanies working photographers around the globe. Itintroduces acclaimed personalities from the photography scene alongside up-and-comingtalents working on a diverse range of photographic projects, offering an insight into theirwork and invaluable photographic tips. Take Alberto Venzago, who documents revolutions in Iran, organized crime in Japan andchild prostitution in Asia – almost no story is too dangerous for this Swiss photojournalist,but he can still get enthusiastic about slightly less hair-raising projects. Just recently,Venzago accompanied international youth ensemble USB Verbier Festival Orchestra ontheir grand Asia tour. Exclusively in black & white, he portrays the orchestra on stage andbehind the scenes. Following the creed of the renowned Magnum Agency – for whomVenzago worked for four years – he sought “the real picture, not the pretty one.” And sothe conductor is caught looking like a predator flashing his teeth before an imminentattack, while the solo pianist is portrayed completely absorbed in the music. Venzago’sorchestra pictures are remarkable, informative and energetic.French photographer Pascal Meunier takes a completely different route. In search of avery special kind of light, he spent several sleepless nights wandering the streets of theEgyptian metropolis Cairo. What we see are mystical night shots, drenched in color. Feelfree to stroll through Cairo – or through Brittany, Los Angeles and New York – in our fast-growing online archive!

Targeted – e-magazine for huntersThanks to gripping travel reports and exciting practical advice, friends of hunting opticswill find their monthly fix at www.leica-camera.us. Wild boars pigging out, giant elks inSweden and dogs on a hunt – in addition to the highlights on the front page, click throughthe e-magazine and discover unexpected treasures in the archives.The next issue takes us up north on an adventurous dogsled ride through the snowylandscapes of Greenland, eventually bringing us eye to eye with some of the largestmammals in the Arctic Circle: musk oxen. The crisp air in the eternal vastness is biting cold, vapor blows from the nostrils of the majestic beasts ... the excitement is uncontainable!

Alberto Venzago photographs the VerbierFestival Orchestra in Japan with a Leica M8

The social behavior of the common raven is complex. Raven researcherBernd Heinrich observed them up close. Photo: Bernd Heinrich

Musk oxen photographed by Norbert Rosing


Here’s your chance to experience first-hand the convergence of old-world crafts-manship and state-of-the-art technology at two legendary world-class manufac-turing facilities—all while taking in some of Europe’s most spectacular sights, lodgingat first class hotels, and dining at some ofthe finest restaurants in the region. The Leica/Porsche trip, from June 17-26,2007, includes such memorable delightsas a tour of the charming Romanesquetown of Wetzlar, birthplace of the Leica, a tour of the Leica factory in Solms, explo-ring Heidelberg, one of the most beautifulcities in Germany, and visiting the renow-ned Porsche automobile factory. You’lleven get a chance to drive a classic Porsche 911 around Switzerland’s pictu-resque Lake Zurich! Other highlights include shooting picturesin the Black Forest, lodging and dining at the famed resort of Baden-Baden, and

visits to two royal palaces, Neuschwan-stein, one of the most famous castles inEurope, and Linderhof Castle, a rococomasterpiece built in the ornate French style. This memorable event will concludewith a one-day photo tour of Munich, thecapital of Bavaria and the beer capital ofthe world! This prestige trip has been arranged andorganized by the Leica Academy, and Leicainstructors will be on hand to answer anytechnical questions and to guide you in theuse of the latest Leica equipment, in-cluding the landmark Leica M8. Plenty ofLeica loaner lenses and equipment willalso be available to help you maximize yourpicture-taking potential.

THE LEICA/PORSCHE TOUR:

SAVOR GERMAN ENGINEERING AND HOSPITALITY AT ITS BEST!

Experience the fascination of Germany’s historic cities, picturesque landscapes and famous castles on the Leica-Porsche-Tour 2007. Porsche and Leica both bring together traditional handicraft with the latest in technology. Enjoy getting to know them on this journey

Interested? For complete details on prices,scheduling, and to sign up for the tour of alifetime, please call David Farkas at DalePhoto & Digital (954) 920-3648.

Leica News 25

22592_E_LWN07_01_S25_U3_RZ.QXD 21.02.2007 21:02 Uhr Seite 25

March Store City, State Telephone Type of Event

March 12-15 Paul’s Photo Torrance, CA 310-375-7014 Workshop – Leica M Las Vegas Adventure

March 13 Leica Camera Inc. Boston, MA www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

March 17 Leica Camera Inc. New York City, NY www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

March 23-24 Kenmore Camera Kenmore, WA 425-485-7447 Leica Day

March 24 Samy’s Camera California 323-938-2420 Leica Day

March 25-28 Leica Camera Inc. Las Vegas, NV www.leica-camera.us Trade Show WPPI

March 29 Pearl Audio Portland, OR www.leica-camera.us Leica Day

March 31 Leica Camera Inc. Salt Lake City, UT www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

March 31 Fairborn Camera Fairborn, OH 937-878-4392 Leica Day

April

April 5 Leica Camera Inc. Chicago, IL www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

April 11 Leica Camera Inc. Portland, OR www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

April 13-14 Glazers Camera Seattle, WA 203-336-0183 Leica Day

April 14 Leica Camera Inc. Seattle, WA www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

April 20-21 Click Camera Dayton, OH 800-254-2501 Leica Day

April 20-21 Ace Photo Sterling, VA 703-430-3333 Leica Day

April 20 Miami Photo Consulting Miami, FL 305-259-5144 Leica Day

April 26-29 LHSA Santa Fe, NM www.leica-camera.us Spring Shoot for LHSA Members

April 26-27 Pro Photo Supply Portland, OR 503-241-1112 Leica Day

April 27-28 Dale Photo & Digital Hollywood, FL 954-920-3648 Leica Day

April 27-29 Camtec Photo Montreal, QC 514-875-5110 Leica Day

April 28 Nelson Photo La Jolla, CA 858-729-6565 Leica Day & Clean & Check

April 28 National Camera Exchange Golden Valley, MN 763-546-6831 Leica Day

May

May 2 Leica Camera Inc. Denver, CO www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

May 4-6 Adray Camera Dearborn, MI 800-652-3729 Leica Day

May 4-5 Kenmore Camera Kenmore, WA 425-485-7447 Leica Day

May 5 Leica Camera Inc. Phoenix, AZ www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

May 5-6 Penn Camera Tyson Corner, VA 301-210-7366 Leica Day

May 6-16 Camera West Tuscany 866-645-2414 Photo Shoot

May 9 Cooter’s Village Camera Dallas, TX 214-521-4553 M8 Day

May 11 Leica Camera Inc. Irving, TX www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

May 11-12 Dodd Camera Cleveland, OH 800-507-1676 Leica Day

May 11-12 Glazers Camera Seattle, WA 203-336-0183 Leica Day

May 12 Central Camera Chicago, IL 312-427-5580 Leica Day

May 17 Tamarkin New York New York City, NY 800-289-5342 Leica Day

May 18 Click Camera Dayton, OH 800-254-2501 Leica Day

May 19 Leica Camera Inc. New York City, NY www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

May 20 Le Camera Princeton, NJ 609-771-8787 Leica Day

May 20-29 Samy’s Camera California 323-938-2420 Photography trip to Germany

May 25 Helix Camera Chicago, IL 800-621-6471 Leica Day

May 25-26 Shutterbug Camera Santa Rosa, CA 707-576-1456 Leica Day

May 26 New York Camera Southampton, PA 215-357-6222 Leica Day

May 29-30 E.P. Levine Boston, MA 617-357-5617 Leica Day

May 31 Eli Kurland Photographic New York City, NY 212-879-3263 Leica Day

May 31-June 1 Keeble & Shuchat Palo Alto, CA 800-854-8996 Leica Day

June

June 1 Leica Camera Inc. Costa Mesa, CA www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

June 2 Leica Camera Inc. Culver City, CA www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

June 3-11 Bergen County Camera Westwood, NJ 201-664-4113 Trip to Tuscany

June 7 Leica Camera Inc. Palo Alto, CA www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

June 7 Photo Village New York City, NY 212-989-1252 Leica Day

June 8 Delray Camera Delray Beach, FL 561-278-3331 Leica Day

June 8-9 Pro Photo Supply Portland, OR 503-241-1112 Leica Day

June 8-9 Art’s Camera Plus West Allis, WI 414-543-0700 Anniversary Sale

June 8-9 Camera West Monterey, CA 866-645-2414 Leica Day

June 9 Leica Camera Inc. Monterey, CA www.leica-camera.us M8 Digital Workshop

June 9 Colonial Photo & Hobby Orlando, FL 800-841-1485 Leica Day

June 29-30 Pearl Audio Portland, OR 503-222-2595 Leica Day

EVENT SCHEDULE | DEMO DAYS | WORKSHOPS

Leica Camera Inc. / 1 Pearl Court, Unit A / Allendale, NJ 07401 / Telephone 800-222-0118

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