Leica launches black-paint version of the M10-R

Is this the most handsome M to grace dealer’s showrooms since the MP of 2002? The black-paint version of the M10-R, launched today, is definitely my candidate for best looker of the century. Along with Leica fans everywhere, I’ve always had a soft spot for a bit of black paint

Stealth classic

Identical internally to the current high-resolution M10-R, the new version is a stealth classic in its smart black-paint finish. There’s no distracting red dot and the classic image is enhanced by the LEICA—ERNST LEITZ WETZLAR GERMANY engraving on the top-plate. The shutter release is finished in chrome while the dials have cross-knurling in contrast to those on the standard M10-R.

What isn’t mentioned in the press release is the metal used in the construction of the top-plate. While the MP of 2002, which is still current, has the classic brass top plate — which eventually leads to the popular “brassing” effect as the paint wears over time — it is fairly certain the top-plate of this black-paint model will be the standard alloy used in other M10-series cameras.

The telling point is the weight. With a brass top-plate the new camera would weight more than the M10-R. While this absence of brassability will a disappointment to some, I suspect it won’t be a deal-breaker.

With rumours of an M11 rife, and a November 2021 launch date likely, this could well be the last iteration of the M10 series. It is also the best and, with a price premium of just £400 over the M10-R, it should find a ready market. It will be the one to hold for the long-term.

Without a doubt, if I were in the market for a new M10-series rangefinder, this would be the one to go for. I love it. It’s only a pity that the best versions come at the end of the product cycle, but this is marketing for you. Wouldn’t it be nice if such a great, classic finish were available at a premium from the start of the model cycle?

The black-paint M10-R is available from franchised dealers from 2 pm today. It sells for £7,500, including tax, in the United Kingdom.

All images courtesy of Leica Camera AG

Leica M10-series reviews on Macfilos

Leica M10-R

Leica M10

Leica M10 Monochrom

PRESS RELEASE

Exclusive design variant: the Leica M10-R is now available with a black paint finish.

Leica Camera introduces a new design variant of the Leica M10-R. With a black paint finish, the new Leica M10-R perfectly embodies the classic Leica look: over the years, glimpses of brass will gradually start to show on the corners and edges – resulting in a unique patina that emphasises the camera’s individual character. This is a camera that not only captures moments in time, but also tells a story of its own. The new addition to the M family is a prime example of Leica’s unerring commitment to quality and craftsmanship made in Germany.

Although boasting the same high technical standards as the original M10-R, the new variation, in addition to its high-gloss finish, enjoys some other external details that distinguish the new version from its classic counterpart. These differences include the classic Leica lettering on the top plate, along with an elegant ‘Ernst Leitz Wetzlar Germany’ engraving. Also, the omission of the Leica red dot has created an understated appearance that facilitates an especially unobtrusive approach. As with all Leica M cameras, the new variant is equipped with an ultra- quiet shutter, allowing the photographer to capture scenes at close proximity without drawing undue attention.

Perfectionism down to the last detail is one of the hallmarks of this unusual system camera: the ISO and shutter speed dial both feature classic diamond-pattern knurling, while the shutter button is distinguished by a silver-chrome finish. The Leica M10-R delivers an exceedingly high image quality with a resolution of over 40 megapixels, allowing the sensor to recognise even the smallest details, utilising the full potential of Leica’s legendary M lenses.

Reliability over many years of use, combined with high value retention, count among the distinguishing traits of this exceptional camera. They are also a testament to the consistent implementation of Leica’s company philosophy. Throughout the decades of its extraordinary history, Leica has placed a focus on sustainability. For example, by developing the Leica M bayonet back in the 1950s, the company created a timeless lens mount standard; as a result, even vintage lenses from the era of analogue photography can still be used on the new black- paint Leica M10-R today. As ever, Leica’s optical instruments prove to be steadfast companions that are characterised by exceptional quality and longevity.

The Leica “M10-R, black paint finish” is available in Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store, and from specialist retailers for £7,500.00 (RRP).

Technical details

Camera type
Compact digital rangefinder system camera

Lens mount
Leica M bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit encoding

Format / Image sensor
CMOS chip, active area approx. 24 x 36mm, without low-pass filter

Resolution
DNGTM: 7864 x 5200 pixels (40.89 MP),
JPEG: 7840 x 5184 pixels (40.64 MP), 5472 x 3648 pixels (20 MP), 2976 x 1984 pixels (6MP)