Exactly 100 years ago, Ernst Leitz unveiled the Leica I at the 1925 Leipzig Spring Fair, essentially inventing portable 35mm photography. To mark this very significant jubilee, Leica has released the M11-D 100 Years of Leica anniversary set, featuring a version of the camera that combines vintage elements with today’s rangefinder.
Living History in Your Hands
The M11-D returns to the brass construction and high-gloss black paint finish of the original Leica I, materials chosen not just for authenticity but for how they’ll age. This finish will patina over time, developing character just like the vintage cameras from Leica’s early decades.
Gone are the modern red Leica logo and strap eyelets, since these design elements didn’t exist on the 1925 original. Instead, you get nickel-colored anodized aluminum controls with that distinctive cross knurling pattern, a conical collar around the shutter release, and genuine leather covering with the thick, heavily textured finish that defined early Leica cameras. Even the typography pays homage, with “Ernst Leitz Wetzlar” engraved in white on the shutter release collar.
Two Lenses, Two Eras
The lenses Leica chose to pair with the camera also helps tell a story of the brand’s past. The Leitz Anastigmat-M 50mm f/3.5 is a contemporary reimagining of the very first Leica lens from 1925. Originally fixed to the Leica I, this retractable lens maintained its compact proportions while gaining modern M-mount compatibility.
Meanwhile, the Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. brings things firmly into the present. This is where Leica’s century of optical innovation shines through with a lens that’s fast, sharp, and capable of that signature Leica look with beautiful bokeh wide open. Despite the modern capability, this anniversary version maintains the design theme with classic cross knurling and nickel-colored finishing.
However, this is still a modern-day Leica camera, after all. The M11-D itself retains the 60-megapixel full-frame sensor and Maestro III processor from the standard M11, but ditches the rear LCD entirely. This forces a more deliberate shooting approach, which is exactly what the original Leica I demanded from photographers in 1925. You compose through the optical viewfinder, trust your light meter, and embrace the methodical pace that made rangefinder photography so compelling.
Built for Obsessives
The package extends beyond the camera and lenses. Leica includes a specially designed leather protector, SD card case, and carrying strap in rich cognac leather that echoes the brand’s earliest accessories. Everything arrives in a glossy black wooden presentation box crafted in Germany.
The M11-D is limited to just 100 units (of course) — one of which will bear the distinction of being the brand’s one-millionth M camera. Owing to impeccable timing, this milestone camera, serial number #6000000, will find its permanent home at Leitz Park alongside the original Leica I #126 from 1925.
Spec Sheet
Camera: Leica M11-D
Sensor: 60MP full-frame CMOS
Processor: Maestro III processor
Display: N/A
Lenses: Leitz Anastigmat-M 50mm f/3.5 (retractable) & Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH.
Materials: Brass top/base plates, aluminum controls with nickel anodizing, genuine leather covering
Accessories: Leather protector, SD card case, carrying strap, wooden presentation box
Limited Edition?: Yes 100
Pricing & Availability
The Leica M11-D 100 Years of Leica set will arrive exclusively at select Leica Stores in spring 2026. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, though given that a standard M11-D and Summilux-M 50mm already command around $15,000 combined, expect this anniversary set to carry a significant premium for its exclusivity and heritage appeal.
Recap
Leica M11-D 100 YEARS OF LEICA anniversary set
Leica celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Leica I with a limited-to-100 version of the M11 rangefinder, equipped with 2 lenses: a modern-day Summilux-M 50mm and a contemporary reimagining of the Leitz Anastigmat-M 50mm from 1925.
