We’re camera nerds so (obviously) we love Leica. The problem is, Leica has a habit of releasing specialty cameras that are so spectacularly expensive, the only thing we can do is stare at them in the showroom, drool, and cradle our Leica Q2s. The new Leica M Monochrom ‘Signature’ by Andy Summers is one of those cameras.
This puppy is going for a cool $14,995 and is exclusively available in Leica showrooms—it will be limited to 50 sets worldwide.
But why is this happening?
This project is a three-way collaboration with Leica, Fender, and Andy Summers: former Police guitarist, renaissance man, and avid photographer. Summers has been an incredibly active contributor to the art world for over thirty years. That includes numerous photography books, art installations, and now his very own camera.
Fender created a matching guitar as a nod to the performer’s roots. According to Leica’s press release:
“Mirroring Leica’s dedication to unparalleled craftsmanship, well-known manufacturer of stringed instruments and amplifiers Fender, as well as the Custom Shop, have a long tradition of building signature guitars as a tribute to some of the world’s greatest musicians. Fender is currently launching a special Andy Summers Monochrome Strat® in collaboration with the legendary guitarist.
To honor Summer’s work, and as a complement to the guitar, Leica created the LEICA M MONOCHROM “Signature” by Andy Summers. The limited-edition camera features intricate design elements from the Andy Summers Monochrome Strat, such as a leatherette that matches a collage from Summer’s legendary photo collection that also appears on the guitar and a thin red line engraving running along the side of the entire body.”
Leica M Monochrom Specs
The camera has the same specs as it’s classic Leica M Monochrom (which runs about $7,950):
- Sensor: CCD
- Effective MP: 18MP
- Sensor Format: 35mm
- Aspect Ratio: 3:2
- Image format: JPEG, DNG RAW (compressed or uncompressed), RAW+JPEG
It also includes a Leica Summicron-M f/2 35 ASPH. lens and a Fender guitar-inspired camera strap and an OBERWETH leather black system bag (that $14,995 is slowly making more sense).
The real question is this: if you could, would you buy this camera? Bonus points to anyone who would invest in the matching guitar.
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Regular price: $4,995.00
