Leica's Olive-Green M11-P Safari Edition Fuses Battlefield Legacy with Premium Modern Technology
Revamped Reality
Step into the world of Leica's latest offering, the M11-P Safari – a testament to a timeless color that's as captivating as the camera itself. Riding on the coattails of Leica's historical military-inspired special editions, this new variant brings all the might of the flagship digital rangefinder to the table. Let's dive in and see what sets it apart.
A Touch of History
Savor the lore of Leica's Safari cameras, a tale as enticing as their Red Dot creations. Unlike the myriad heritage-inspired products that have flooded the industry recently, Leica's Safari editions can trace their roots directly back to functional military equipment. Debuting olive M3 and M4 models in the 1960s, Leica developed these cameras not for fashion but for battlefield documentation and reconnaissance, where discretion was paramount.
Military-exclusive models eventually garnered enough public interest that Leica released civilian versions, starting with the R3 Safari in 1977. Olive green, initially a camouflage choice, quickly became Leica's iconic special edition color. Significant models include the M6 TTL Safari (2000), M8.2 Safari (2008), and most recently the M10-P special edition with the first Safari M-Lens (2019). The M11-P Safari pushes the envelope, crafting the most premium version of the colorway we've seen so far.
Ready for Action
A confessed fan of the Safari series, I dare say that the green exterior gives this luxurious shooter a dash of adventure. At $10,500, it's unlikely you'll be using it during an actual safari (perhaps you might), but the matte green chassis will undoubtedly capture attention in the concrete jungle.
Leica's meticulous application of paint on the brass top and bottom plates is paired with an olive leather wrap on the body. The silver dials and controls create a striking contrast against the earthy tones, making for a camera that's worth snapping selfies with as much as your subject.
This edition isn't just a color swap; it's thoughtfully designed with intentional details to elevate the M11-P Safari to collectible status. Gone is the red Leica badge, replaced by a subtle silver screw – a nod to the brand's utilitarian past. Rear controls retain a black color scheme, forming a cool two-tone aesthetic when glimpsed from behind. Against the green background, the Leica script and "Wetzlar Germany" markings are more pronounced than ever.
Field-Ready Power
The military aesthetic doesn't compromise function for form. Underneath the Safari's green exterior, you'll find the technological might of the standard M11-P, with zero sacrifices. The 60-megapixel full-frame BSI sensor continues to rule the roost, employing Leica's fascinating Triple Resolution Technology for selectable 60, 36, or 18MP outputs. Internal storage capacity remains generous at 256GB, expandable via the UHS-II SD card slot.
Leica's Content Credentials system, an image verification feature found in other ranges, is another recent technological innovation. This cutting-edge technology is wrapped in Leica's distinctly analog shooting experience, characterized by an optical rangefinder and a mechanical focusing system. Leica's unwavering commitment to blending tradition and innovation shines through with this model.
Specifications at a Glance
Camera Type: Digital rangefinder systemSensor: 60MP BSI full-frame CMOS (Triple Resolution: 60/36/18MP)Storage: 256GB internal + UHS-II SD card slotDisplay: 2.95′′ scratch-resistant sapphire crystal LCD
Limited Edition?: No
Pricing and Availability
Prices for the M11-P Safari are set at $10,495, a $655 premium over the standard M11-P. Unlike many of Leica's limited editions, the Safari doesn't cap production, so you'll have to act fast if you want your piece of the action. The package includes a black strap, though the cognac leather-style strap seen in promotional photos is an additional purchase.
Trends in the industry have seen a plethora of heritage-inspired products hit the market. Leica's Safari editions, however, offer something different: a connection to the brand's military roots that transcends simple aesthetics and instead delivers a practical, functional tool with a dash of adventure. So, dare to stand out in the concrete jungle with the M11-P Safari.
- The green exterior of the M11-P Safari, reminiscent of Leica's Safari editions, lends a touch of adventure to the luxurious camera, making it perfect for selfies in the concrete jungle.
- The M11-P Safari comprises more than just a stylish redesign; it features a subtle silver screw in place of the red Leica badge, a nod to the brand's utilitarian past, and a two-tone aesthetic created by the black rear controls.
- The M11-P Safari combines a military aesthetic with cutting-edge technology, boasting Leica's Triple Resolution Technology, a 60-megapixel full-frame BSI sensor, and an image verification feature, all while preserving the optical rangefinder and mechanical focusing system that Leica is renowned for.
