Leica Camera AG has introduced four new cosmetic variants for its iconic M-mount lenses: three finished in the brand’s classic olive “Safari” green and one glossy-black edition of the Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. While the finishes are new, the optics remain identical to their existing counterparts. These lenses target collectors, Leica enthusiasts and photographers who value distinctive design alongside proven optical performance.
Key Features
Three Safari-green models:
- Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Safari)
- Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Safari)
- Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH. (Safari)
One glossy-black edition:
- Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Glossy Black)
- Same optical formulas as standard versions; differences are cosmetic.
- Safari editions include silver-chrome accents, red feet scale and white metre markings.
- Extended close-focus across the Safari trio.
- Limited availability through Leica Stores, Leica Online Store and authorized dealers.
Who Is It For?
These special-edition lenses are aimed at Leica M shooters, collectors and anyone who appreciates Leica’s industrial design heritage. Street, reportage and documentary photographers will enjoy the tactile mechanics and compact form factor.
They’re also popular among Sony E-mount photographers who adapt Leica M lenses using simple mechanical adapters. When mounted on bodies like the Sony a7 V, the lenses deliver the classic Leica rendering with full manual-focus control. Limited autofocus functionality is possible using specialist adapters such as the Techart LM-EA9, although performance varies and does not match native Sony E-mount lenses.
Considerations & Limitations
- Pricing reflects collectibility, not optical changes.
- Wide-angle M lenses may show color shift or edge softness when adapted to full-frame mirrorless bodies without corrective adapters.
- Manual focus is standard; AF performance with adapters may not match native lenses.
- Limited production means availability may be inconsistent.
- Premium design = premium price.
Price & Availability
The Leica Summilux‑M 35mm F1.4 ASPH. Safari is available now for $6795, the Summilux‑M 50mm F1.4 ASPH. for $5495 and the Summilux‑M 50mm F1.4 Classic in glossy black for $4595. Those interested in the Leica Summicron‑M 28mm F2 ASPH. Safari will have to wait a bit longer; it will be available on February 12, 2026, for $5995.
Leica lists the following pricing (incl. VAT):
- Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Safari) – $6,795 at Amazon – B&H
- Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Safari) – $5,495 at Amazon – B&H
- Summilux-M 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. (Glossy Black) – $4,595 at Amazon – B&H
- Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH. (Safari) – $5,995 at Amazon – B&H
Three models are available now; the 28mm Safari ships in early 2026.
Final Summary
Leica’s new Safari-green trio and glossy-black Summilux are all about aesthetics — premium finishes wrapped around proven optical designs. They’re best suited for collectors, Leica loyalists and mirrorless shooters looking to adapt M lenses to platforms like Sony E-mount and the a7 V. While expensive and limited, these editions remain functional tools capable of the classic Leica rendering that many photographers seek.
