“I’m back” is back with a new “I’m Back Roll” digital camera back, equipped with a 26MP APS-C Sony IMX571 sensor, that is compatible with Leica film cameras:

The project is now live on Kickstarter, with over $550k raised by 950+ backers. Here is the “I’m Back Roll” product fact sheet and additional information:

• Product Name: I’m Back Roll APS-C
• Concept: Digital conversion system for analog cameras
• Sensor: Sony APS-C (16–21 megapixels)
• Storage: 256GB internal SSD
• Image Formats: RAW and JPEG
• Design Philosophy: All-Inside Design, No external screen, No external cables
• Connectivity: Bluetooth synchronization + Wi-Fi image transfer
• How it works:
  • Insert the system into the camera’s film compartment
  • The sensor sits in the film gate
  • The roll module occupies the film chamber
  • Shoot normally using the camera’s mechanical shutter
  • Images are stored internally and transferred later

How it works:

• I’m Back Roll APS-C sits exactly where the film normally goes.
• Inside the roll, there is a 26MP APS-C Sony IMX571 sensor.
• To capture an image, you first need to advance the camera, moving the film lever and arming the shutter mechanism.
• Then, using our remote control, you click, synchronize and trigger the photo, just like in the old days.
• This way it preserves the rhythm and experience of shooting film – including missing a shot now and then – while recording everything digitally.
• This version works with all 35mm film cameras.
• For the first time, it will also be possible to use the system with underwater cameras such as Nikonos and other similar models.
• The reason is simple: everything is contained inside the body of the device. There are no external parts required.
• In our previous models, I’m Back 35 and I’m Back Film, an external module was necessary. With this new version, the entire system is integrated internally, which makes compatibility much broader.
• Another important improvement is the new, larger sensor. This version uses an APS-C sensor, providing better image quality and a larger capture area.

Other photography-related projects currently available on Kickstarter:

• Rewindpix non-disposable digital “Film” camera
• New Peak Design travel bags
• CamCast – turn your camera into a smart, connected system
• Yashica pocket camcorder

Via PhotoRumors

The post “I’m Back Roll” offers APS-C digital back sensor for Leica film cameras appeared first on Leica Rumors.

→ The Leica SL2-S camera is now $3,708 on Amazon.

→ The Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH “Glossy Black” lens is still $1,376 off.

 
→ PolarPro announced a new Goldstache filter.

→ Viltrox is teasing new L-mount lenses to be announced at the 2026 NAB show (April 18–22).

→ Venus Optics is working on a new Laowa wide-angle zoom autofocus mirrorless lens for L-mount.

→ 90% trade-in promo at Leica Store Miami.

→ Leica Oskar Barnack Award 2026 announced.

→ Leica M4 Olive “Bundeswehr”: one of the rarest military Leica cameras ever produced.

→ Red Dot Forum Camera Talk Live: A guide to Leica SL lenses (part II: 50mm & telephoto).

→ Leica Q3 vs Sony RX1R III.

→ A conversation about photography with Joel Meyerowitz.

→ The Photographic Pursuit – Gajan Balan with the SL-System.

→ Leica M EV1 – Alan Schaller in Tokyo.

→ Leica Dunkelkammer Ep 4 – Fine Art Printing.

The post Leica digest #227 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

7Artisans  will soon release a new 35mm f/2.8 lens for L39 screw mount (LTM/Leica thread mount):

  
Here is what we know so far about the new lens (check the official 7Artisans website for updates):

• Focal Length: 35mm
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Optical Construction: 7 elements in 5 groups – classic double-Gauss structure (modern coatings for high-definition sharpness while retaining vintage character and flare resistance)
• Mount: Leica M bayonet with native dual L39/M39 screw-mount compatibility
• Focus Type: fully rangefinder-coupled
• Minimum Focus Distance: 0.7 m
• Dimensions: Ultra-slim, only 20 mm thick
• Weight: 88 g (one of the lightest full-frame M-mount lenses available)
• The front nameplate ring does not rotate during focusing (major usability improvement over classic Elmar-style lenses)
• Lens Hood: Comes with two different hoods included
• Filter Support: exact thread size not yet listed
• Build & Aesthetic: All-metal retro/vintage styling inspired by golden-era rangefinder lenses (Leica Elmar influence)
• Price (approximate at launch): ~2330 RMB / $325 USD (very affordable third-party option)
• The lens is currently being tested

Additional pictures and related video:

The post New 7Artisans 35mm f/2.8 lens for L39 mount coming soon appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens is now back in stock and open for pre-order (limited quantities). The Mandler 35mm f/2 is a complete reproduction of the optical formula of the original Leica Summicron 35mm f/2 seven-element lens. The name “Mandler” is a tribute to Walter Mandler, who designed many legendary Leica lenses. See previous coverage of the lens here:

Update – all sold out again.

A Contemporary Interpretation of Classic Optics

Inspired by the classic optical structure, the Mandler 35mm f/2 combines contemporary precision manufacturing to create an optical product that blends traditional aesthetics with modern performance. It delivers high-level performance in color accuracy, flare control, and overall optical consistency, reflecting the reliability of its classic optical design and the advancement of modern optical manufacturing technology. The launch of this lens aims to break the traditional notion that high quality must come with a high price, offering photographers a choice that balances optical excellence with affordability.

Core Optical Characteristics

• Structure: Classic double Gaussian design (7 elements in 5 groups), featuring a purple-gold coating for flare resistance and rich color rendition.
• F2 Performance: Extremely sharp at the center, accompanied by dreamy swirling bokeh and vignetting with a sense of depth.
• Image Quality Progression: At F4, vignetting diminishes and image quality improves; at F8, sharpness is balanced across the entire frame, making it suitable for various types of creative work.

Lens specifications:

• Focal length: 35mm
• Maximum aperture: F2
• Minimum aperture: F16
• Mount: Leica M
• Lens structure: 5 groups, 7 elements
• Minimum focusing distance: 0.7m
• Viewing angle (diagonal/horizontal/vertical): 64°
• Focus mode: Manual focus (MF)
• Aperture blades: 10
• Filter size: 39mm
• Front diameter: Ø34mm
• Lens size: 53mm x 34.5mm
• Lens weight: about 139g
• Color options: Classic Black/Platinum Silver
• Material: Aluminum alloy
• Accessories included: 12504 metal round lens hood, 12526 plastic square lens hood, UV protection lens, metal lens cap, lens storage bucket

Field Curvature: Center Sharpness and Corner Control

The field curvature performance of the Mandler 35mm f/2 is commendable. At F2.0 wide open, the central area maintains excellent sharpness, while the corners exhibit a smooth progressive falloff. By F5.6, the field curvature becomes more uniform, with a significant improvement in corner sharpness. This sophisticated optical design offers both the artistic shallow depth-of-field expression at F2.0 and ensures detailed full-depth-of-field recording when stopped down. Overall, the optical performance of the Mandler 35mm f/2 meets professional standards.

You can now buy the new Mandler 35mm f/2 lens for M-mount – a complete reproduction of the optical formula of the original Leica Summicron 35mm f/2 7-element lens

The post The Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens is back in stock (limited quantities) appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Owlkrown introduced two new Leica accessories:

LTM39-M adapter

• Precision Rangefinder Coupling: Machined to the exact 1.00mm flange-back tolerance between LTM and M mount, this adapter delivers full rangefinder focus coupling and accurate frame line activation on every Leica M body, no calibration, no guesswork.
• Aerospace-Grade 17-4 Stainless Steel or Brass: CNC machined in Miami from durable 17-4 stainless steel or Brass and tested by our team of working photographers. Tight tolerances, smooth threading, and a zero-play bayonet fit, built to last as long as the glass it carries.
• Also Available in Brass (50/75): Prefer weight and character? The 50/75 frame line version is offered in solid brass; it threads on with a satisfying heft that pairs naturally with classic Leica glass and ages beautifully over time.
• Three Frame Line Options: Choose the version that matches your glass: 50/75 for standard and portrait lenses, 35/135 for wide-angle and telephoto, or 28/90 for ultra-wide and short telephoto coverage. Steel is available in all three. Brass in 50/75.
• 6-Bit Code Ready: 6 small recessed dots on the adapter flange can be filled with a matte black marker to enable 6-bit lens coding on M10 and M11 bodies, giving you automatic lens metadata with no permanent modification and no expensive coding service.
• Simply screw it on, align the red dot, and you’ve got a near-native M experience. Compatible with all Leica M bayonet cameras.
• Thread: 39mm (LTM/L39)
• Material: 17-4 Stainless Steel or Solid Brass (50/75 only)

Slacker Outback leather strap

• Top-grain leather construction – wider profile (⅝ inch / ~16mm) with chamfered and treated edges.
• Reinforced end design – features an additional leather fold-over piece securing the split ring for added strength.
• Built-in lug covers – integrated into the strap for constant protection, plus removable covers included for those who prefer extra flexibility.
• Polished steel split rings – durable and resistant to wear.
• Available in multiple colors – to match your style and setup.
• Custom lengths available – from 30″ to 55″ for a perfect fit.

Previous coverage of Owlkrown products can be found here:

The post Owlkrown introduced new Leica accessories appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Oberwerth announced a new Gear Pack designed to address a common issue: premium storage for the discerning Leica user at home and on the go.

→ You can use the exclusive coupon code RUMORS for a discount ←

The compact case is designed to hold up to four lenses or, alternatively, a small camera setup, offering a dedicated solution for organizing and protecting valuable equipment at home and on the go.

The Gear Pack is made from Oberwerth’s Casual leather – a full-grain, softly tumbled leather sourced from European hides and produced under high environmental standards (LWG-certified). The material is designed to combine durability with a softer, more natural feel compared to traditional rigid cases.

Inside, padded lining with adjustable dividers allows flexible organization depending on the gear. The lid includes integrated leather slots for up to two SD cards, keeping smaller essentials within reach.

Additional features include a waterproof zipper for protection against external elements and a discreet top handle for easy transport.

Key specifications:

• Capacity: up to 4 lenses or a compact camera setup
• Material: full-grain “casual leather” (LWG-certified)
• Interior: padded lining with adjustable dividers
• Extras: SD card slots in lid, waterproof zipper

Order now at Oberwerth.

Previous Oberwerth product coverage can be found here.

The post Oberwerth announced a new “Gear Pack” appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The previously reported Brightin Star 11mm f/2.8 II full-frame fisheye lens for L mount has now been officially announced – this is the second generation of the Brightin Star 11mm f/2.8 model.

The introductory price of the lens is $249.99. After April 23, the price will be $269.99. Orders are now open at the official Brightin Star website (coming soon to B&H and Amazon).

Additional information:

Via NikonRumors

The post Brightin Star announced a new 11mm f/2.8 II full-frame fisheye lens for L-mount appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Rock n Roll straps & bags are having their spring sale, where you can get 20% off on all products with the coupon code 20$$20:

Milano strap

Bauhaus crossbody camera bags

SL2 limited edition camera straps

Napa camera straps

Capri camera bags

Century collection camera straps

Monochrom camera straps

Silky camera wrist straps

Hendrix camera straps

Century SL handcrafted Italian leather camera strap

Classic drum-tanned camera straps

Havana camera bags

More information is available at Rock n Roll’s official website.

Previous coverage of Rock n Roll products can be found here.

The post Don’t miss the Rock n Roll straps & bags spring sale: 20% on all products (coupon code included) appeared first on Leica Rumors.

I will be traveling in the next few days and will have limited Internet connectivity.

Check the following Leica Facebook groups for the latest news:

• Leica M11 M11P M11D M11M M11V
• Leica M10 M10P M10M M10R M10D
• Leica M EV1
• Leica M12
• Leica Lenses
• L-Mount
• PhotoRumors
• Leica Watches
• Sigma
• Voigtlander
• Zeiss

The post Offline for a few days appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The Brightin Star 28mm f/2.8 pancake lens for Leica M-mount is now 50% off at B&H Photo and Amazon:

New Brightin Star 28mm f/2.8 lens for Leica M-mount announced

The post Deal of the day: the Brightin Star 28mm f/2.8 pancake lens for Leica M-mount is now 50% off appeared first on Leica Rumors.

→ New SG-Image AF 35mm f/2.2 lens for L-mount officially announced (see the official website for more information).

   
→ The DNG file format is now officially a RAW image standard.

→ The TTartisan 11mm f/2.8 fisheye full-frame lens for L-mount is now also available in silver: B&H Photo | TTartisan online store.

→ 15% off on TTartisan lenses at Amazon, B&H Photo, and the official online store.

→ World Backup Day saving specials (additional information).

→ Red Dot Forum Camera Talk: a guide to Leica SL lenses.

→ Finding Connection – Holly-Marie Cato with the Leica SL3-S camera.

The post Leica digest #226 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

 
Read about the rare Nicca IIIL camera inspired by the Leica M3:

The Nicca III-L (often stylized as IIIL) is a rare 1958 Japanese 35mm rangefinder camera produced by Nicca Camera Co. just before the company was acquired by Yashica. Designed as a direct rival to Leica’s groundbreaking M3, it retained the classic Leica M39 screw-mount lens system while incorporating several M3-inspired innovations, including a bright combined viewfinder/rangefinder with projected 50mm frame lines, a top shutter speed of 1/1000 sec, an automatic-reset exposure counter styled after the Leica’s, a smooth film-advance lever, and a convenient top-hinged rear flap for easier film loading. Only a few hundred examples were ever made, making the III-L one of the scarcest and most collectible “Leica clones” from Japan’s golden era of rangefinder production.

Additional information:

• pronews
• cameragocamera
• camera-wiki
• leica-copies-japan
• leitz-auction
• buy on Ebay for under $1,000

The post The rare Nicca IIIL camera inspired by the Leica M3 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Eastman Kodak announced a new batch of photographic films – two new professional lines totaling six stocks: the Ektapan black-and-white negative films and the Ektacolor Pro color negative films. The new films are essentially the same high-quality emulsions as the former Kodak T-Max (for Ektapan) and Portra (for Ektacolor Pro) lines, now rebranded under the classic/vintage Kodak names.

Pre-orders:

• Kodak Ektapan Black & White Films
• Kodak Ektacolor Pro Color Negative Films

Additional information:

Kodak Ektapan Black & White Films

These are continuous-tone panchromatic negative films using a T-Grain emulsion for low grain, high sharpness, resolution, and contrast. Formats: 135 (35mm) and 120 for 100 & 400; 135 only for P3200.

• EKTAPAN 100: Ultra-high sharpness, fine grain, and resolving power. Ideal for maximum clarity.
• EKTAPAN 400: The world’s sharpest and finest-grain 400-speed B&W film.
• EKTAPAN P3200: Multi-speed film optimized for pushing to ISO 3200+ with consistent quality.

Kodak Ektacolor Pro Color Negative Films

These are daylight-balanced color negative films known for natural skin tones, soft/accurate color reproduction, ultra-fine grain, wide exposure latitude, and excellent scanning performance.

• EKTACOLOR PRO 160: Ultra-fine grain with exceptionally natural skin tones and soft, accurate colors.
• EKTACOLOR PRO 400: The world’s sharpest and finest-grain 400-speed color negative film; handles varied lighting well.
• EKTACOLOR PRO 800: Strong low-light performance while keeping natural skin tones and balanced color.

The post Eastman Kodak released new Ektacolor Pro & Ektapan photographic film appeared first on Leica Rumors.

Leica Camera is rumored to introduce a new 3% price increase on all Leica products in Europe in April. I am trying to get the new price list. Stay tuned.

You still have time to lock in on the current prices at one of our sponsors:

Leica Lisse | WEX Photo | Red Dot Cameras | Calumet | Koch | Görlitz

Leica Camera recently introduced price increases in the US.

The post Rumors: 3% price increase on all Leica products in Europe coming in April appeared first on Leica Rumors.

After the initial $1,000 discount, the Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH “Glossy Black” lens is now $1,376 off:

The post Another price drop: the Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH Glossy Black lens is now $1,376 off appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH “Glossy Black” lens is now $1000 off:

Update: now $1,376 off.

Additional informtion on this lens can be found here:

Officially announced: Leica M11 camera and Noctilux 50mm f/1.2 ASPH lens in glossy black paint

The post Rare Leica discount: the Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 ASPH “Glossy Black” lens is now $1000 off appeared first on Leica Rumors.

→ The Leica SL2 camera drops to $4,805 on Amazon.

→ Phil Penman and the new Leica Noctilux-M 35 f/1.2 ASPH lens.

→ Venus Optics officially announced the previously reported Laowa 15-24mm T8 and 15-35mm T12 macro probe zoom lenses (adaptable to L-mount). Orders are now open at B&H Photo. Additional information is available here.

→ DxO released new versions of PhotoLab 9.6. DxO PhotoLab is an advanced RAW photo editor covering the full workflow – from demosaicing and noise reduction to local adjustment, optical corrections, color management, and print soft proofing. Additional information is available here.

→ Panasonic Europe reports record Lumix full-frame market share for 2025 (L-mount):

• Panasonic Europe Lumix total FF market share for 2025: 10%
• Panasonic Europe Lumix total FF kit market share for 2025: 17%

→ Leica Dunkelkammer episode 3: contact sheets.

The post Leica digest #225 appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens is now back in stock and open for pre-order (limited quantities). The Mandler 35mm f/2 is a complete reproduction of the optical formula of the original Leica Summicron 35mm f/2 seven-element lens. The name “Mandler” is a tribute to Walter Mandler, who designed many legendary Leica lenses.

See previous coverage of the lens here:

A Contemporary Interpretation of Classic Optics

Inspired by the classic optical structure, the Mandler 35mm f/2 combines contemporary precision manufacturing to create an optical product that blends traditional aesthetics with modern performance. It delivers high-level performance in color accuracy, flare control, and overall optical consistency, reflecting the reliability of its classic optical design and the advancement of modern optical manufacturing technology. The launch of this lens aims to break the traditional notion that high quality must come with a high price, offering photographers a choice that balances optical excellence with affordability.

Core Optical Characteristics

• Structure: Classic double Gaussian design (7 elements in 5 groups), featuring a purple-gold coating for flare resistance and rich color rendition.
• F2 Performance: Extremely sharp at the center, accompanied by dreamy swirling bokeh and vignetting with a sense of depth.
• Image Quality Progression: At F4, vignetting diminishes and image quality improves; at F8, sharpness is balanced across the entire frame, making it suitable for various types of creative work.

Lens specifications:

• Focal length: 35mm
• Maximum aperture: F2
• Minimum aperture: F16
• Mount: Leica M
• Lens structure: 5 groups, 7 elements
• Minimum focusing distance: 0.7m
• Viewing angle (diagonal/horizontal/vertical): 64°
• Focus mode: Manual focus (MF)
• Aperture blades: 10
• Filter size: 39mm
• Front diameter: Ø34mm
• Lens size: 53mm x 34.5mm
• Lens weight: about 139g
• Color options: Classic Black/Platinum Silver
• Material: Aluminum alloy
• Accessories included: 12504 metal round lens hood, 12526 plastic square lens hood, UV protection lens, metal lens cap, lens storage bucket

Field Curvature: Center Sharpness and Corner Control

The field curvature performance of the Mandler 35mm f/2 is commendable. At F2.0 wide open, the central area maintains excellent sharpness, while the corners exhibit a smooth progressive falloff. By F5.6, the field curvature becomes more uniform, with a significant improvement in corner sharpness. This sophisticated optical design offers both the artistic shallow depth-of-field expression at F2.0 and ensures detailed full-depth-of-field recording when stopped down. Overall, the optical performance of the Mandler 35mm f/2 meets professional standards.

You can now buy the new Mandler 35mm f/2 lens for M-mount – a complete reproduction of the optical formula of the original Leica Summicron 35mm f/2 7-element lens

Update: the Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens for M-mount is sold out, LTM mount still available, next batch is coming in March

The post The Mandler 35mm f/2 “Seven Elements” lens is back in stock and open for pre-orders again (limited quantities) appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The latest Pixii Max M-mount full-frame camera model is now $500 off (the previous Pixii A2572+ model is up to $600 off, depending on the model):

The next Pixii camera is expected to be released in the summer (2026):

The next Pixii camera is expected to be released in the summer of 2026 (+ Pixii Black Friday Sale)

Additional coverage of the Pixii Max M-mount full-frame camera can be found here:

DxO Mark tested the sensor of the new Pixii Max full-frame digital rangefinder camera with Leica M-mount

Pixii Max digital rangefinder camera sensor test results by PhotonsToPhotos

Additional information on the new Pixii MAX 24MP full-frame digital rangefinder camera with Leica M-mount

The post Deal of the day: the latest Pixii Max M-mount full-frame camera is now $500 off appeared first on Leica Rumors.

The next Tamarkin Spring Rare  Auction will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2026. The auction catalogue will be released soon.

The post The next Tamarkin Spring Rare Camera Auction is on Saturday, May 30, 2026 appeared first on Leica Rumors.