Leica today announced a new version of the world’s smallest, full-frame digital system camera: the Leica M9-P. This new model will sit alongside the Leica M9 in the company’s rangefinder portfolio, providing an alternative, even more discreet and resilient design that further reinforces the quintessential nature of the M9 – and particularly meets the needs of professional photographers. Offering the same technical specifications as the highly successfully Leica M9, the M9-P combines all the benefits of the original: compact size, full-frame, 18 megapixel 24 x 36mm sensor (35mm format), sophisticated image processing and robust construction, with features designed for the professional user or photographers who prefer a pure, even more unobtrusive styling.
The Leica M9-P includes a scratch-resistant, sapphire crystal covering on the LCD screen. This material is so tough that the screen can only be produced using special diamond cutting tools and is one of the world’s hardest materials. As a result, the sapphire glass LCD cover is extremely resistant to wear and almost unbreakable, meaning many years of reliable use. In addition, thanks to an anti-reflective coating on both sides of the cover, reviewing images on the display during composition and after capture is further improved, particularly in unfavourable lighting conditions.
The functions of the Leica M are consistently constructed for extreme durability and a long working life. The highest quality materials, intricate manufacturing processes and meticulous manual assembly at Leica’s facility in Germany guarantee functional reliability for years to come. The external covering of the body of the M9-P, finished in vulcanite leatherette, features a more coarsely textured finish that ensures a steady grip when shooting, making the M9-P feel particularly safe and secure in the hand.
In line with Leica’s commitment to system compatibility, almost all Leica M lenses built since 1954 can be used with the Leica M9-P – an important factor in the enduring value of the M series. All M lenses mounted on the M9 and M9-P offer the same focal length as originally intended. .The Leica M9-P (available in black paint or silver chrome) is scheduled to be available from June 2011 for approximately $7,995.00.
