Leica M11‑D “100 Years of Leica” – A Timeless Tribute

Leica’s M11‑D “100 Years of Leica” Anniversary Set is a masterful tribute to a century of photographic innovation, celebrating the groundbreaking Leica I of 1925. Limited to just 100 numbered examples—plus a symbolic #000 that marks Leica’s millionth M‑camera—this release bridges heritage and cutting-edge craft in a way only Leica can.

Design That Ages Like Fine Art

  • Brass + Gloss Black Lacquer: Top and base plates are solid brass coated in high-gloss piano black—designed to freely develop a rich patina over time.

  • Analog Authenticity: Missing are the rear LCD, red logo, and strap lugs—mirroring the original Leica I’s clean aesthetic. Nickel-anodised aluminum dials are cross-knurled, with the arresting “Ernst Leitz Wetzlar” engraved on the shutter collar.

  • Pure Photographer’s Tool: A screen-free, rangefinder-only design encourages deliberate composition and focus—supported by a rear ISO dial and classic optical finder.

The Digital Heart Within

Under its vintage skin beats modern technology:

  • 60 MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution (60/36/18 MP)

  • Maestro III image processor

  • 256 GB onboard storage, USB‑C, Leica FOTOS integration, and watermark “Content Credentials” support

But the user experience is resolutely analog. No instant playback—results are only checked via Leica FOTOS or tethered connection, fostering a focus-first discipline.

Twin Lenses, Twin Eras

The set includes two exclusive 50 mm lenses in matching nickel finish:

  • Leitz Anastigmat-M 50 f/3.5: A collapsible homage to the Leica I’s original lens—now with M-mount compatibility and classic form factor.

  • Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH.: Modern optical performance meets vintage style—fast aperture, crisp bokeh, and exquisite Leica “look.”

Collector-Level Presentation

Each set arrives in an elegant black lacquered wooden box, lined with micro‑velour, and includes cognac‑toned leather accessories: protector, strap, SD case, and certificate of authenticity. Every camera, lens, and box is engraved with its own serial number—#001 to #100, with the special #000 reserved for Leica’s millionth M‑camera, destined for the Leitz Park archive alongside the original Leica I #126.


Availability & Pricing

  • Launch: Spring 2026, at select Leica Stores globally

  • Units: 100 standard sets, plus the “#000” millionth-camera model

  • Price: TBD—expect a premium above the ~$15K combined price of a standard M11‑D plus Summilux, potentially €20K

This limited-edition iteration isn’t just a camera—it’s Leica’s tactile manifesto. It honors a legacy, celebrates craftsmanship, and challenges today’s creators to slow down, focus, and reconnect with the essence of photography. As City Magazine puts it, it’s “a collector’s wet dream and a lesson in patience.”

So,

For Leica collectors and classic rangefinder enthusiasts, the M11‑D “100 Years of Leica” Anniversary Set represents timeless artistry—a camera that will evolve with its owner while carrying the weight of 100 years of photographic revolution. It’s rare, beautiful, and purposefully crafted to be more than just a functional tool—it’s a piece of photographic history.

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