Leica X1 (2009)

Name: Leica X1
Brand: Leica

A compact digital camera with an APS-C sensor and fixed 36mm-equivalent lens, built for precision and portability.

Overview

Leica introduced the X1 in 2009. It packs a large APS-C-format CMOS sensor into a small body. The lens is a fixed Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH (36mm equivalent). Controls are on top-mounted dials, which feel a lot like Leica's M-series rangefinders. It shoots DNG RAW and JPEG, and it has an external optical viewfinder.

Specifications

Sensor	12.2-megapixel, APS-C-format, 3:2 aspect ratio CMOS sensor
Sensor size	23.6×15.7mm
Lens	Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH
Lens construction	8-element, 6-group design incorporating an aspherical surface
35mm equivalent focal length	36mm equivalent
Aperture range	f/2.8 to 16
Shutter speed range	1 sec to 1/2000 sec
ISO range	100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, and 3200
Continuous shooting speed	2fps, or 3fps in high-speed mode
AF patterns	1-zone and 11-zone AF
Macro AF distance	Macro AF only to 1 foot
LCD screen	2.7-inch LCD screen
LCD resolution	230K dot LCD
Viewfinder	External optical viewfinder
Storage media	SD or SDHC card
Image formats	DNG RAW, and a range JPEG sizes, or DNG plus JPEG
Metering modes	center-weighted, multi-zone, or spot
Dimensions	4.85 inches wide, 2.5 inches high, and 1.98 inches deep (including lens)
Weight	10 ounces
Body construction	Solid magnesium chassis with aluminum top and bottom plates and dials

Design

The X1 keeps things minimal. It has three auto modes plus manual exposure: Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual. The top has knurled aperture and shutter-speed dials. The back has ten clearly labeled pushbuttons. The lens and sensor are a single unit.

Market

The Leica X1 originally sold for $1,995 US. It is no longer eligible for repair service or USA repair. Common problems are failed plastic clips, missing button covers, and dust getting in because the lens-sensor unit is sealed. You can replace the battery with third-party options.