In a totally unexpected move, Leica Camera AG has just purchased the Swiss large format camera maker Sinar. The details of the transaction have not been disclosed, but the press release states that the companies will collaborate in digital technologies, distribution and customer service. Sinar Photography AG’s headquarters will remain in Zürich, Switzerland, but Leica will henceforth manage the distribution of Sinar products.
Sinar covers the complete range of large format products, including camera bodies, digital backs, lenses, shutters as well as workflow software. The largest format camera that Leica is currently offering is the S medium format system. Leica’s acquisition of Sinar now raises the question whether we’ll see Leica-branded digital large format products in the future, which would only make sense considering that large format photography is both a niche and premium market–exactly what Leica is trying to serve.
