This spring marks 100 years since Leica introduced the original Leica?I at the Leipzig Spring Fair in 1925—a camera that forever changed how photographers work by miniaturizing 35?mm film into a portable, rangefinder?style body. To honor that milestone, Leica has unveiled the Leica?M11 “100?Years of Leica?NEW?YORK?USA” edition, paying tribute to both its heritage and the city at the heart of its U.S. centennial festivities.
Distinctive Design Touches
Your eyes are drawn instantly to the glossy black finish—a nod to Leica’s mid?century M?Camera line—that will develop its own unique patina over time, reflecting each owner’s journey. Functional accents come in the form of knurled silver?chromed control elements on the shutter release, on/off switch, and ISO and shutter?speed dials, while the black cowhide armouring calls back to the classic vulcanite leathering of early models. Subtle anniversary flourishes include a black?chrome hot shoe cover embossed with “100”, a black screw replacing the classic red Leica dot, and the top plate engraved with “NEW?YORK?USA” and the individual serial number from 001/100 through 100/100.
Exclusivity and Availability
Just 100 of these New York?engraved M11s will be produced, making them true collector’s items. They will hit shelves on May 1, 2025, sold exclusively at select Leica Stores in the United States, each accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Priced at $10,695, ownership requires both enthusiasm and budget, underscoring the edition’s blend of scarcity and symbolism.
A Global Centennial Celebration
The New York release is one chapter in Leica’s “100 Years of Leica: Witness to a Century” program. Parallel special editions—each limited to 100 units and engraved for Milan, Dubai, Shanghai, Tokyo, and Wetzlar—will appear in their respective markets. Throughout 2025, Leica’s galleries will host high?profile exhibitions, cultural events will pop up in major cities, and the festivities will climax with an anniversary week in June at Leica’s Wetzlar headquarters, celebrating a century of photographic innovation worldwide.
