The Leica I was first introduced in the Spring of 1925, and now, 100 years later, Leica is introducing 100 M11 “NEW YORK USA” Collector’s Edition cameras to celebrate the centennial of an icon. In those 100 years, Leica has captured the admiration and love of photographers and collectors alike. Whether you’re always looking for the next special edition or plan on using your beloved Red Dot camera as a daily driver, this might be the Leica for you!
The Leica M11 NEW YORK USA Edition: A Camera so Nice…
A centennial edition of anything should absolutely take your breath away when first look at it, this M11 is no exception. The NEW YORK USA Edition includes several features that will turn collectors’ heads. From the engraving on the top plate spelling out “NEW YORK USA” underneath the traditional “Leica” engraving to the exclusive anniversary edition glossy black paint finish, this M11 will only continue to age like fine wine. The M11 “NEW YORK USA” edition also uses chrome accents – on the shutter release, on/off switch, ISO, and shutter speed dial – all decorated with elaborate cross knurling.
The camera body gets some high-touch refinements as well. This special edition M11 calls back to its storied heritage using black cowhide armoring around the body – a throwback to Leica’s vulcanite leathering of earlier models. Other details that collectors and fans alike can appreciate include a black chrome-plated hot shoe cover with Leica’s “100” anniversary logo, a black screw replacing the traditional red dot logo, a special “xx/100” serial number.
A Storied History
The first Leica I was introduced at the Leipzig Spring Fair 100 years ago and became the first mass-produced 35mm Leica camera. At the time, it was truly innovative, sporting a compact design and allowing photographers of the day versatility that was impossible with other cameras. It should come as no surprise that Leica chose the M11 as the platform that would ultimately become the special edition for their centennial. In our review of the M11, we declared the M11 as “the best Leica M digital camera yet,” and now it may be the best special edition camera you can buy.
100 Years of Leica Across the World
For me, the Leica M remains an aspirational purchase. I’ve long considered purchasing an M-series camera since I borrowed a friend’s M6 for a month. I instantly fell in love with rangefinders and have since purchased camera bodies that drew direct inspiration from the real McCoy. And while I’d love to say that Leica chose New York as the only city that would get its special edition M11, the truth is that we (New Yorkers) will have to share the honor with four other country versions, including “MILAN ITALY”, “DUBAI UAE”, “SHANGHAI CHINA”, “TOKYO JAPAN”, and “WETZLAR GERMANY.”
Each edition will be limited to 100 units and will only be available for purchase in its respective country. How’s that for exclusivity? If you’re looking to pack for your flight and pick one up, this 100-year gift will set you back $10,695.00.