Leica and Formula 1 Shift Into Gear With Limited Edition Q3 43
Leica and Formula 1 have teamed up for a limited-edition version of the Leica Q3 43.
The two legacy brands from different but overlapping worlds have combined to create a sleek version of the popular Leica Q3.
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 edition comes with a wireless charging handgrip with a carbon fiber shell, a soft-release button with a carbon inlay and red rim, and a matching thumb rest.
Fans of Formula 1 will recognize the significance of carbon fiber. It’s a material the sport’s engineers rely upon to create the world’s fastest prototype machines.
There are more racing references on the camera: it also includes a non-slip Microvelour covering modeled on a racing steering wheel, an F1 logo on the top plate and lens cap, and a rope strap included in the set that is in keeping with the carbon fiber components and bears both brands’ logos.
Leica says it approaches a camera in much the same way a well-drilled Formula 1 team approaches a season.
“Formula 1 races take place in an environment exerting the highest technical demands. Performance does not stem from a single element, but from the precise interplay of components and team members,” Leica says.
“A Leica camera is created with a similar approach: the optics, sensor, design and mechanics are fine-tuned until there is nothing that stands between the photographer and their subject.”
Leica says it does not typically use carbon fiber in its cameras, but the material features prominently in this edition.
Carbon is used in Formula 1 because it is low weight while remaining extremely rigid. The carbon fiber parts for the Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition have been manufactured and tested exclusively in Germany.
“This creates a cohesive look from the handgrip to the thumb rest and soft-release button, and the exceptionally even finish makes the craftsmanship palpable,” Leica says.
“Light falling on the surface emphasises the texture, giving it shifting visual depth with every movement. Carbon fibre is positioned at the key points where the camera is held and operated. The connection to motorsport is therefore not just visual, but can be felt with every shot.”
The camera also has red accents, again inspired by the world of F1 where steering wheel buttons are often color-coded to help the driver find them quickly. The soft-release button and one of the two function buttons on the thumb rest feature the same colour scheme.
Underneath the hood is the Leica Q3 43 that has a 43mm APO-Summicron f/2 ASPH lens, providing a field of view that closely resembles the way the human eye perceives the world.
The BSI CMOS full-frame sensor provides the option of 60, 36, or 18 megapixels. A fast
hybrid autofocus system and extensive video functions complete the package.
There is also a “Formula 1” Leica look exclusively baked into the camera. It’s designed to create a rendering that complements the world of motorsport. Higher contrast and richer saturation capture the atmosphere of the racetrack and paddock in the final image.
It’s available via the Leica Fotos App and can be applied immediately while taking photos so that the effect is visible in the viewfinder, rather than only emerging during post-processing.
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 was officially unveiled at an exclusive event held at the Leica Store and Leica Gallery in Los Angeles. The collaboration was presented to guests by Formula 1 presenter Ariana Bravo and 2009 FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion Jenson Button.
A series of 26 motorsport photographs by Callo Albanese were also on display at the event. The Italian photographer specializes in Formula 1 and motorsport photography.
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 edition is available from October 21 in all Leica stores, online, and from specialist retailers. The recommended retail price is $9,950 / £7,300 / 8,500 euros.
Image creditsCourtesy of Leica
