In 1925, a full century ago, Leica debuted the groundbreaking Leica I camera at the Leipzig Spring Fair. This pioneering 35mm camera was the world's first mass-produced model, completely transforming the landscape of photography and redefining how we capture the essence of life through images. To commemorate this illustrious history, Leica Camera has launched a limited edition product themed around A Century of Leica.
In this centennial commemorative series, the most collectible piece is undoubtedly the M11-D Century Leica Limited Edition set. This collection not only pays heartfelt tribute to the original Leica I camera, but also holds particular significance as the 101st unit of the M11-D special edition camera—it marks Leica's one-millionth M camera, bearing the serial number 6000000. This milestone camera will be displayed alongside the first mass-produced Leica I camera from 1925 (serial number #126) at Leitz Park's Leica Welt, symbolizing a century's worth of precision craftsmanship and innovative spirit from Leica.
The M11-D Centennial Leica Special Edition camera seamlessly bridges the past and present with its classic aesthetics and materials. The top cover and base plate are crafted from solid brass and finished with a glossy black lacquer. Staying true to the original prototype, both the strap holes and the iconic red Leica logo have been omitted. The nickel-plated controls—including the shutter, power switch, and shutter speed dial—are made from aluminum alloy, adorned with a traditional cross-knurling texture that cleverly reflects the design details of the Leica I camera. The retro protruding shutter base, semi-circular button, and the nostalgic leather covering uphold the aesthetic style of early Leica cameras. The hot shoe cover features the 100 logo, while the shutter base is engraved with Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, enhancing its commemorative significance. The engraving on the accessory shoe base follows the serial number format of the earliest batches of Leica I cameras (N° 001 to N° 100), and the camera bearing serial number 6000000 has been granted the honor of N° 000.
This centennial commemorative set comes complete with thoughtfully designed accessories, including a custom protective case (featuring a fixed strap inspired by Leitz's early leather products) and an SD card storage box, all crafted from select cognac-colored leather. The entire collection is elegantly housed in a black lacquered wooden box made in Germany, adding an extra touch of prestige and uniqueness.
To celebrate this centenary event, Leica has also launched a commemorative photo album titled 100 Leica Stories, which gathers 100 stories that cover personal moments, iconic images, technological milestones, and lesser-known behind-the-scenes secrets. This panoramic presentation showcases the photography legends that Leica has witnessed and documented over the past hundred years.
The Leica M11-D Centenary Edition set, featuring the Anastigmat-M 50 f/3.5 and Summilux-M 50 f/1.4 ASPH. lenses, will be available at selected Leica boutiques starting in spring 2026. Meanwhile, the rest of the products have officially launched at major Leica boutiques, the Leica online store, and authorized dealers worldwide since June 26.
