Leica V-Lux 1 (2006)
A bridge camera released in 2006, based on the Panasonic DMC-FZ50, with a 10.1MP CCD sensor and a 35-420mm equivalent 12x optical zoom lens.
Overview
The Leica V-Lux 1 is a digital bridge camera introduced in September 2006 and shown at Photokina that year. It is built on the same platform as the Panasonic DMC-FZ50. It carries Leica branding, optics and image processing, with claims of improved JPEG compression over its sibling. The CCD sensor is 10.1 megapixels effective, 10.4 million total pixels. The 12x optical zoom lens covers a 35mm equivalent range of 35-420mm, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 at the wide end. It meets Leica's strict optical standards. The camera has aperture priority, shutter priority and manual exposure, which suits enthusiasts who want a fixed-lens body with some versatility. It has a tilting 2.0" TFT display and records 480/30p video. It weighs 668 grams without batteries (734 g with) and measures 141 x 85-86 x 142 mm, so it is a substantial camera.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Leica |
| Product type | bridge camera |
| Sensor | 10.1 megapixel CCD sensor |
| Effective pixels | 10.1 million |
| Total pixels | 10.4 million |
| Lens | Leica DC Vario-Elmarit |
| Lens equivalent | 35-420mm (35mm equivalent) |
| Optical zoom | 12x optical zoom |
| Maximum aperture | f/2.8 |
| Shutter speed | 1/2000 sec to 60 sec |
| ISO sensitivity | 100 - 1600 |
| Video | 480/30p Video |
| Display | 2.0" tilting TFT display |
| Orientation sensor | Yes |
| Aperture priority | Yes |
| Shutter priority | Yes |
| Built-in flash | Yes (pop-up) |
| Weight | 668 g (without batteries) |
| Dimensions | 141 x 85–86 x 142 mm |
| Original price | $849–$1399 (US market) |
Design
The Leica V-Lux 1 uses the same core design as the Panasonic DMC-FZ50, with Leica-branded optics and refined image processing. The lens is fixed and not interchangeable. It gives a broad 35-420mm equivalent range in a housing approximately 135 mm long. The tilting 2.0" TFT display helps with composition, and an orientation sensor rotates images automatically. The body is shaped for a secure grip, which helps control in varied shooting conditions.
Context
The Leica V-Lux 1 was introduced in 2006, as Canon and Panasonic were bringing out new models of their own. It was marketed as a premium alternative to the Panasonic DMC-FZ50. The hardware was similar, with Leica's optical branding and adjusted image processing. It was positioned as a high-end bridge camera for photographers who wanted advanced features and a versatile zoom range in a single-lens package.
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