Allendale, NJ—The Leica M-D (Type 262) is the latest offering in Leica’s M rangefinder system. It joins the Leica M and M-P (Type 240), the Leica M (Type 262) and the Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246). This latest release marks the fifth addition to the family of M digital cameras and the system’s first serial production model to be made without a monitor.
The screen on the back of the camera was replaced by the ISO sensitivity dial—a key exposure setting for cameras that harkens back to the legacy of analog Leica M rangefinders. The Leica M-D contains only the core technical features required for photography—shutter speed, aperture, focus and ISO sensitivity—to allow users to concentrate on capturing the decisive moment.
As with all other digital cameras in the M family, the Leica M-D features a high-resolution, full-frame CMOS sensor. Its 24 megapixel sensor is engineered to ensure “exceptional image quality and extreme sensitivity to light.” The camera’s Maestro image processor is built for fast processing of captured image data. Exposures are saved exclusively as RAW data in DNG format, enabling photographers to apply their desired adjustments when using post-processing software.
The Leica M-D is dedicated exclusively to rangefinder photography and deliberately does not support either video recording or a live view function. “Leica M-D users can shoot pictures confidently knowing that they are utilizing the latest generation of Leica M camera performance, albeit with all extraneous features intentionally omitted for the most pure experience,” the company noted.
The camera’s minimalist design features a top plate in brass with a step at the end citing the design of the Leica M9. The omission of the Leica red dot logo or M badging on the front makes the camera more discreet when shooting and traveling. “The design philosophy of the Leica M-D gives its users the most analog experience of shooting a digital camera, and returns to the ritual of waiting to see the images until it is time to sit down and edit,” the company stated.
In addition, the camera boasts a hardly audible shutter to further guarantee maximum inconspicuousness when shooting. Another feature is a shutter cocking system that is quiet in single exposure mode and enables a shutter release frequency of up to 2 frames per second. In continuous mode, the M-D has the same sequential shooting speed as its sister models and shoots up to 3 fps.
The Leica M-D is priced at $5,995. The camera package includes a carrying strap in full-grain cowhide leather. us.leica-camera.com
