It seems strange to call a camera with the pedigree of a Leica M a digital camera. Ah, how times change.

The Leica M8 digital camera

The M-series of Leicas began in 1954, at Photokina. The M3 had a rangefinder body with a bayonet interchangeable lens mount. It began a truly legendary series of cameras and lenses, one of the latest of which, the M7 is possibly the only 35 mm rangefinder cameras still in production.

For 50 years the simple design has remained, and reappears yet again in the newest model, the M8, the first digital Leica..

This new rangefinder digital camera has the classic design, build and function of the M series but with a completely digital imaging system.

The M8 has a 10 megapixel CCD sensor and is not an adapted M7, it is a new camera with a new body, but with all the comforting M trademarks, a new viewfinder and a new sensor. Leica is apparently leaving the door open on its rangefinder film cameras.

Today, Leica has a new owner, revived finances, and a clearer vision of where they’re heading. They still make the world’s finest lenses, and products of unsurpassed construction quality and materials.

I’m told the Leica M8 has a few problems at low light levels — a subject of much debate on the forums. But, no doubt that will be improved in time. As a new entrant to the digital marketplace, the camera is a gem indeed — and with a gem-like price. The UK price is £4,400 (around $9000). I’m sure it’s worth every penny, especially if you’re a Leica aficionado.