German camera maker Leica has unveiled the X-U, the company's first dedicated waterproof, shockproof and dustproof camera. The new model is built around a 16.2-megapixel APS-C format CMOS sensor and a fixed Summilux 23 mm f/1.7 ASPH lens (35mm equivalent).
The camera, which is waterproof to a depth of 15m, offers a minimum focusing distance of 20cm and a built-in flash that's unusually positioned at the front of the lens to minimise the dramatic light fall off that occurs underwater.
Video is available in a choice of 1920 x 1080 or 1280 x 720 pixel resolution at 30 full frames per second in MP4 video format.
Leica says the "shock-resistant, winterised, dust-sealed, and shatter proof" camera is not just ideal for underwater photography, it is also well suited to travel, architecture, and landscape photography.
Conceived by Audi Design the X-U uses an aluminium top plate, anodised aluminium control dials and a double locking system for the battery compartment and memory card slot.
The Leica X-U (Typ 113) is on sale now with a recommended retail price of $5,200. An optional Leica Floating Carrying Strap is available for $95.
More info: http://en.leica-camera.com
Tech specs Leica X-U
| Resolution: | 16 megapixels |
| Image size: | 4928 x 3264 pixels |
| Sensor type: | CMOS |
| Sensor size: | APS-C (23.6 x 15.7mm) |
| Lens: | Leica Summilux 23mm f/1.7 ASPH. (35mm equivalent) |
| Aperture: | From f/1.7 to f/16 in 1⁄3 increments |
| Monitor: | 3" TFT LCD monitor with approx. 920,000 pixels |
| Video format: | MP4 |
| Video resolution | 1920 x 1080p, 30fps |
| File types: | JPG, DNG, DNG + JPEG |
| ISO range: | Automatic, ISO 100-12500 |
| Focus distance: | 20cm to infinity |
| Autofocus modes: | Single field, 11-field, spot, face recognition |
| Exposure modes: | Automatic, aperture priority, shutter speed priority, and manual |
| Shutter speed: | 30s to 1⁄2000s |
| Continuous: | 3fps or 5fps, max. seven exposures at constant exposure frequency with DNG + JPEG Fine |
| Flash range: | 0.3 - 2.0m, (for ISO 100/21°) |
| Storage media: | SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, multi-media cards |
| Dimensions: | 140 x 79 x 88mm (WxHxD) |
| Weight: | 635g (with battery) |