Leica Is Giving the M-A and M11-P Hammertone Special Edition Variants
Leica has announced a new special edition version of both the M-A and M11-P cameras that brings what the company describes as a classic design that it also rarely uses: hammertone.
“Since the 1930s, the hammertone finish has symbolized the combination of durability and technical aesthetics. This distinctive texture is formed during the drying process when metal pigments and special additives create subtle variations in surface tension. In industrial design, particularly in Germany, this finish has come to symbolize functionality and reliability,” Leica says.
While it might be somewhat common generally in Germany, that’s not the case for Leica cameras – at least modern ones. It has appeared in the past, such as from the Leica MD documentation camera for the Leitz Reprovit system to the exceptionally rare Leica MD (of which only ten were produced in 1964), but it’s certainly unusual.
“With their distinctive finish, both variants draw inspiration from rare Leica special editions, including the 1964 Leica MD Hammertone, the 2003 MP LHSA, the 2011 Leica M9 Hammertone, and the 2016 Leica M-A Vienna Edition. The new Leica M-A Hammertone and the new Leica M11-P Hammertone continue this lineage in their own unique way, thereby adding two exceptional, valuable variants to the Leica M portfolio,” Leica says.
Leica says it has reworked the process of applying the pattern for these special editions to achieve a uniform finish of the texture across the entire camera.
Both the M-A and the M11-P have the hammertone finish on the top plate and base plate. It is made from solid brass with a cross knurling on the control elements and a shiny silver shutter-release plate. The cameras also have a black leatherette covering in a vulcanite style with white engravings.
The Leica M11-P Hammertone also has newly rounded, classically styled edges on the top plate and base plate to go with the hammertone texture, as well as a new version of the screw on the front featuring a silver-chrome finish.
This pattern has the special distinction of making every camera unique due to the way it is applied.
Both the Leica M-A Hammertone and the Leica M11-P Hammertone will be available starting on November 12 from Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store, and authorized dealers. The retail price for the Leica M-A Hammertone is $8,000, while the Leica M11-P Hammertone costs $10,950.
Image creditsLeica
