Leica X1 (2009)
A compact digital camera with an APS-C sensor and fixed 36mm-equivalent lens, built for precision and portability.
Overview
The Leica X1 is a compact digital camera introduced by Leica in 2009. It features a large APS-C-format CMOS sensor in a small body, emphasizing high image quality and minimalist design. The camera has a fixed Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 ASPH lens (36mm equivalent) and offers manual controls via top-mounted dials, giving it a tactile experience reminiscent of Leica's M-series rangefinders. It supports DNG RAW and JPEG capture and includes 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 Leica X1 features a minimalist design with a three auto mode plus manual exposure system, offering Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual exposure modes. Control layout includes knurled aperture and shutter-speed dials on top and ten clearly labeled pushbuttons on the back. 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 issues include failed plastic clips, missing button covers, and dust ingress due to the sealed lens-sensor unit. Battery replacement is possible using third-party options.
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