It was mentioned earlier this month that Leica might very well make an announcement of a Sony RX1 competitor some time later this month, and that moment has arrived. Apparently, the compact shooter in question happens to be the Leica Q (Typ 116), and while it does not come across as affordable for the masses, it will still be considerably cheaper as opposed to that of a Leica M.
To date, Leica has bolstered its reputation in the digital camera market when it comes to top-quality interchangeable lens M-series ‘rangefinder’ cameras, although they do come with a pretty – a very pretty price tag, which means they are meant for demanding professionals and those who are serious shutterbugs.
The new Leica Q (Typ 116) will be equivalent to that of other Leica M models in terms of specifications thanks to its 24-megapixel full-frame sensor 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens, accompanied by a similar superb finish and build quality. However, the Q will make use of an electronic viewfinder and autofocus as opposed to a direct vision viewfinder and rangefinder focusing that is found in the M, and it sports a fixed lens as well. There will be external dials for shutter speed and lens aperture control, and the asking price for this bad boy starts at approximately $4,500.