Leica Camera has announced its first ‘ruggedised’ waterproof camera, the Leica X-U, which features a large APS-C CMOS sensor and Summilux 23mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens.
Angled view of the new Leica X-U waterproof camera. (Source: Leica.)
Designed for adventurous photographers, the Leica X-U offers an effective resolution of 16.2 megapixels and its Summilux 23mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens covers an angle of view equivalent to a 35mm lens in 35mm format. It is waterproof to depths of up to 15 metres as well as shock-resistant, ‘winterised’, dust-sealed and shatter proof. The lens will focus to within 20 centimetres and its fast maximum aperture of f/1.7 provides scope for creative selective focusing. The optical design of the lens makes the camera resistant to stray light and flare.
The new camera has been designed by Audi Design and is manufactured in Germany. It boast a non-slip body with a plastic core, aluminum upper and lower covers and flexible TPE reinforcement. A hardened cover protects the monitor screen, while a failsafe double locking system for the battery compartment and memory card slot prevents accidental opening of this compartment.
Rear view of the Leica X-U. (Source: Leica.)
All control dials are made from anodised aluminium and the camera includes an integrated flash above the lens. Easy-to-use, Leica-typical dial controls allow aperture and shutter speed to be set quickly for each picture. A practical underwater snapshot button allows shots to be taken without having to search through a menu. Thanks to a wide range of practical automatic functions and a high-resolution, 3-inch monitor screen, it takes only seconds to find specific settings.
Support is also provided for recording video with a choice of 1920 x 1080 or 1280 x 720 pixel resolution at 30 full frames per second in MP4 video format. The camera comes with a BP-DC8 rechargeable Lithium ion battery, which is CIPA rated for approximately 450 exposures and charges up in 200 minutes. It measures 140 x 79 x 88mm and weighs 635 grams with battery and card.
The Leica X-U, shown with the optional Floating Carrying Strap. (Source: Leica.)
The Leica X-U (Typ 113) is on sale now for an RRP of AU$5,200. Optional accessories include the Leica Floating Carrying Strap X-U (RRP $95) and the Leica Outdoor wrist-strap in black neoprene for X-U, V-Lux (RRP $65). Full details can be found at https://us.leica-camera.com/Photography/Leica-X/Leica-X-U . To locate your local Leica dealer visit http://en.leica-camera.com/Stores-Dealers/Leica-dealer-locator.
