Leica SL2 silver version announced -

Leica has released the Leica SL2 in a chrome version, or what Leica call a “silver” anodised finish. With a £280 increase over the black body, taking the price to £6,200 (body only), it’s quite a premium. Nevertheless, the consensus here is that it looks good. What’s more, like most chrome bodies the finish will likely be more durable over the long term than the black option.

Curiously the US press release states that only 1000 silver chrome bodies will be made, making it a limited edition. If anything says the SL2 is about to be replaced with the SL3 this is it.

I’ve been hugely tempted to buy into the SL system, especially to use Leica M lenses in addition to the increasingly attractive native mount options such as this and more recently this one. While the AF speed doesn’t overly concern me (and I should say reports around the web seem overly sceptical of this – is everyone a sports photographer?), what is a slight concern is the lack of a lossless (or even a lossy) compressed DNG option.

I know storage is cheap but the recommended high-speed SDXC V90 memory cards aren’t (though this looks attractive [affiliate link]). Even if you use cheaper V30s, which are mostly fine for stills, with compressed DNG (RAW) you will still get two to three times as many pictures to a card or laptop.

It’s not the pixel quantity that’s the issue with hi-res sensors, as most seem to think, it’s the resultant RAW file size. Canon and Nikon have this under control but Leica (or is it Panasonic in this case, as the SL and Q models are made by them) don’t appear to have it fully under control.

As I said it’s really only a “slight” issue, as you can do something about large DNG files once downloaded; try this it’s free. However, the workflow is a bit of a cludge as there’s no overwrite option.

It’s not that Leica hasn’t offered that in the past. The Leica M-P offers compressed and uncompressed DNG (I don’t have an M10 to check). And the Leica M11 with its 60MP sensor has what looks like compressed DNG only (no uncompressed option) files that are smaller than the Q2’s or the SL2’s, even though they use a 47.5MP sensor.

While this new finish is welcome, a lossless compressed DNG option as a firmware update for the Leica SL2 (and the SL2-S and Q2) would make a real difference to existing owners in a highly competitive market. Let’s hope the SL3 has a compressed RAW option.

PRESS RELEASE

New: Leica SL2 in Silver
Now as a Design Variant with a Classic Look – also available in two attractive kits together with a lens

Wetzlar, 15th June 2023. Leica cameras have always remained true to their line. The design follows the function and is characterised by minimalist features concentrating on the essentials. It speaks an unmistakable language with a special emphasis on visual and haptic value. This unique look is also reflected in the new product variant of the Leica SL2 in silver. Furthermore, it is reminiscent of the typical design of the popular silver Leica M and Leica R camera classics.

With the SL2 in silver, Leica Camera AG complies with the wish of its customers and once again demonstrates a sustained exchange with the very people who use Leica products. The design variant presents itself with a silver anodised top plate and base plate. Its elegant black leather covering is identical to the Leica M11 and rounds off the classic look. Visually, the silver Leica SL2 is particularly appealing in combination with the M-Adapter L and the legendary, compact M lenses.

The technical specifications of the silver Leica SL2 are the same as those of the existing series model in black. Extremely intuitive, easy and comfortable to use, it produces photographs and videos of impressive image quality thanks to its powerful 47 MP CMOS sensor. Its high dynamic range and a sensitivity range of up to ISO 50,000 deliver outstanding pictures in all lighting conditions. These can be triggered remotely via the Leica FOTOS app and transferred via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Many other functions ensure a seamless workflow and allow the Leica SL2 to be conveniently integrated into professional setups.

The Leica SL2 in silver will be available globally at all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorised dealers starting now. The retail price will be €7,100.00 including VAT.

In addition, Leica is offering two kits with an attractive price advantage to match the new design variant. The silver Leica SL2 is available in a kit together with the versatile Vario-Elmarit-SL 24- 70 f/2.8 ASPH. for €9,100.00. The second kit consists of the silver anodised design version and the classic Noctilux-M 50 f/1.2 ASPH. including M-Adapter L and is available for €13,890.00. This also allows for the possibility of combining all M-Lenses ever produced with SL-Cameras and thus using their unmistakable look for photography and videography.