For years, the Leica M-series has been defined by two things: exceptional optics and the timeless, tactile experience of a mechanical rangefinder. But the photographic world is buzzing with the possibility of a radical shift. Persistent rumours now suggest that Leica is on the verge of launching the Leica M EV1, the first M-series camera to forgo the optical rangefinder entirely in favour of a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), with an announcement reportedly set for October 23rd.
This move would mark one of the most significant design departures in the modern M-line, potentially opening up the world of legendary M-mount lenses to a new generation of photographers who prefer the "what you see is what you get" precision of an EVF.
From Hybrid to Pure EVF: The Evolution of a Rumor
The trail of leaks has been a fascinating journey in itself. The story began late last month when whispers of a camera dubbed the "Leica M11-V" emerged. Early speculation, such as this report from August, pointed towards a hybrid viewfinder system, similar to the one beloved in Fujifilm's X100 and X-Pro series, which would allow photographers to switch between optical and electronic viewing.
However, the narrative has solidified in recent weeks. Current information strongly indicates that Leica is taking a bolder step. The upcoming camera, now widely referred to as the Leica M EV1, is rumoured to contain neither an optical viewfinder nor a rangefinder mechanism. This would make it a pure EVF-based camera, a first for the M lineage.
What to Expect from the Leica M EV1: A Q with an M-Mount?
So, what exactly is this camera if it's not a traditional M? According to the most consistent leaks, the M EV1 will be a compact, full-frame camera that shares more DNA with the fixed-lens Leica Q3 than with the M11. The core idea, as detailed in a recent LeicaRumors analysis, is essentially "a Leica Q with an M-mount."
This design philosophy makes perfect sense given the removal of the complex and space-consuming rangefinder assembly. Key specifications, initially linked to the "M11-V" name and spotted on a Chinese retailer's site, are expected to include:
- Sensor: A high-resolution 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor.
- Processor: The powerful Maestro III processor for swift performance.
- Storage: 64GB of built-in internal storage, a feature carried over from the M11.
- Viewfinder: A built-in 0.5-inch electronic viewfinder with a high-resolution panel.
This combination promises a modern digital shooting experience while maintaining full compatibility with the vast ecosystem of Leica M-mount lenses, both vintage and new.
Pricing and Market Position: A New Gateway to the M-System?
Naturally, such a fundamental change raises questions about cost. By eliminating the expensive rangefinder components, the Leica M EV1 is expected to be positioned at a more accessible price point than the standard M11, which currently retails for $9,899.95.
However, "accessible" is a relative term in the world of Leica. Speculated pricing for the M EV1 is around €7,950 (approximately $9,300), though import tariffs could push the US price closer to, or even above, the $10,000 mark. This would still place it notably higher than the brilliant fixed-lens Leica Q3, which you can find for around $6,625.85. This strategic pricing would create a clear tiered system: the Q3 for all-in-one simplicity, the M EV1 for an EVF-led M-lens experience, and the M11 for the purist rangefinder aficionado.
A Busy October for Leica: The Q3 Monochrom is Coming, Too
In a double-whammy for Leica enthusiasts, it seems October will be a month to watch. A separate report confirms that an official announcement for the Leica Q3 Monochrom is expected on October 16th, just a week before the purported M EV1 reveal. This dedicated black-and-white version of the popular Q3 will cater to photographers who prioritize ultimate monochrome image quality, free of a colour filter array.
The Bottom Line
The potential arrival of the Leica M EV1 represents a pivotal moment for the brand. It’s a nod to the future, acknowledging the dominance and advantages of electronic viewfinders—like focus peaking, exposure preview, and digital zoom for precise focusing—without abandoning the soul of the M-system: the lenses.
If the rumours hold true, by late October, photographers will have a new, compelling way to enter the Leica M ecosystem. It may not be the camera for the rangefinder purist, but for many, the Leica M EV1 could be the perfect fusion of Leica's optical heritage and modern digital convenience.
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