SolaresLarrave
My M5s need red dots!
For those of you who thought the Epson RD-1 was the first (or the last) novelty, HERE is news of another toy! 
Of course, you can read the same text, directly from the source (and download a photo of the camera) HERE TOO! Just click on "Press Releases" and then on the link on Photokina 2004, entitled "Back with a Passion."
Let's enjoy the news! Why? It's a film camera!
I (JT) edited the post to include the Press release .....
Back with Passion: Carl Zeiss Redefines Range-finding Cameras Downloads and Links
Carl Zeiss will present a new range-finder camera under the "Zeiss Ikon" brand at Photokina 2004. RTF Documents
english (30 KB)
Further Information
Deutsche Version
Oberkochen/Cologne - Germany, 28.09.2004. "Zeiss Ikon" is the name given to the newly designed, film-based range-finder camera introduced by Carl Zeiss at Photokina 2004 (Cologne, Sept. 28 – Oct. 3, 2004). It is not without reason that this name recalls the heyday of the German photo industry. A well-thought out camera system constructed to redefine range-finding cameras is behind the name. The original design indicates that Carl Zeiss succeeded. However, it is the ease of use and the many precision aspects of the camera, as well as the performance of the lens, that emphasize this claim.
We always keep the photographer in focus
Dr. Winfried Scherle, head of the Camera Lens Division at Carl Zeiss AG substantiates the claim: "The idea of the Zeiss Ikon camera is based on a philosophy that focuses on photographers and all their creativity when designing pictures. We extensively analyzed the leading range-finder cameras, looked for and found aspects in need of improvement."
For example, precise focusing and basic requirements for crisp pictures. The Zeiss Ikon camera supports photographers with a uniquely large measuring basis of 75mm. The large measuring basis delivers high precision, particularly for photos in the near range when photographers want to focus on a certain detail in their subject. This is additionally supported by a bright viewfinder image that is approximately 30 percent brighter than the best existing systems as a result of the generously dimensioned optics. Focusing criteria can be significantly better assessed - even under difficult lighting conditions.
The extremely fast shutter speed of 1/2000 seconds opens up an entire new range of possibilities when designing pictures. All functions can be manually set. An intelligent aperture priority is also available to photographers with the Zeiss Ikon camera. It is equipped with an easy-to-use AE lock. This very useful function, particularly for subjects with significant differences in brightness, such as landscapes with bright skies, which are otherwise often under exposed.
User friendly
Anyone who does not constantly use a camera will be happy to have a simple, intuitive system. This is where Zeiss Ikon was systematically constructed to be user friendly. Loading the camera is as easy as with an SLR camera. When selecting the image segment, the frame that best fits the lens focal length is automatically displayed in the viewfinder. The respective objective lens focal length is also shown within this frame. Photographers also receive assistance when they select the correct exposure time or aperture. The actual exposure value (permanent) and the value recommended by the measuring system (blinking) are displayed in the viewfinder window using illuminated diodes. A digital diode is available for each value, twelve in total. The popular exposure correction function is located on the shutter speed knob and can be set without taking the camera away from the eye.
Extensive lens set
Brilliant, true-color, razor-sharp pictures, free from distortion are key requirements in creative photography. Development of this completely new, powerful set of lenses for the Zeiss Ikon camera was geared toward these basic requirements. It comprises a total of seven fixed focal length lenses ranging from a 15mm, ultra wide angle up to an 85mm portrait tele-lens. Thanks to standard lens mounts, these can be used with practically all standard range-finding cameras and are also suitable for digital photography.
Carl Zeiss also paid particular attention to minimal focus shift when developing the lens. The term describes the phenomenon of the focal plane wandering when the diaphragm is adjusted. With Zeiss Ikon lenses, this effect is so strongly reduced that it remains within the depth-of-field range and does not affect the quality of the picture.
Uniform and neutral color rendition was also listed in the Carl Zeiss function specifications given to developers and engineers. Based on knowledge gained from developing lenses for the movie industry and special ZEISS patents in this area, Carl Zeiss succeeded in achieving perfect color matching throughout the entire lens set, enabling each lens in the set to feature a uniform color characteristic.
The lens diaphragm consisting of 10 blades is equipped with a third-step click-stop, enabling particularly precise exposure.
Programmed quality
When it comes to processing quality and expected product life, customers place high demands on products from Carl Zeiss. In order to achieve this during production of the Zeiss Ikon camera, tolerances on the housing and all mechanical interfaces between the camera and lens lie in the range of a few micrometers. Extensive tests, such as shock, vibration, cold, heat and moisture are carried out in the Carl Zeiss environmental laboratory and the performance of the system under all realistic conditions is checked. A protocol is created that guarantees maximum quality and long life expectancy – beginning in production.
Worldwide availability
Long-time Carl Zeiss partner, Victor Hasselblad AB (Sweden), will take over worldwide (except Japan) distribution for the Zeiss Ikon camera system. "Distribution of the Zeiss Ikon system required a partner with years of experience in high-quality cameras and who boasts a worldwide sales network. We are very pleased to have found such a partner in Hasselblad. A unique basis of trust exists as a result of the long-lasting partnership with sophisticated medium format systems which both companies view as an important requirement for success," explains Dr. Winfried Scherle on the decision to select Hasselblad.
Focused on the future
Four lenses – 50mm Planar f/2 ZM, 35mm Biogon f/2 ZM, 28mm Biogon f/2.8 ZM and 25mm Biogon f/2.8 ZM – will be available after Photokina 2004. The actual camera will be in stores in early 2005 followed by three additional lenses which will round out the line: Biogon 2.8/21 ZM, Distagon 2.8/15 ZM and Sonnar 2/85 ZM. The lenses have already been developed taking into account the special requirements of a foreseeable digital camera and can be used with all common range-finder cameras – both digital and analog.
Of course, you can read the same text, directly from the source (and download a photo of the camera) HERE TOO! Just click on "Press Releases" and then on the link on Photokina 2004, entitled "Back with a Passion."
Let's enjoy the news! Why? It's a film camera!
I (JT) edited the post to include the Press release .....
Back with Passion: Carl Zeiss Redefines Range-finding Cameras Downloads and Links
Carl Zeiss will present a new range-finder camera under the "Zeiss Ikon" brand at Photokina 2004. RTF Documents
english (30 KB)
Further Information
Deutsche Version
Oberkochen/Cologne - Germany, 28.09.2004. "Zeiss Ikon" is the name given to the newly designed, film-based range-finder camera introduced by Carl Zeiss at Photokina 2004 (Cologne, Sept. 28 – Oct. 3, 2004). It is not without reason that this name recalls the heyday of the German photo industry. A well-thought out camera system constructed to redefine range-finding cameras is behind the name. The original design indicates that Carl Zeiss succeeded. However, it is the ease of use and the many precision aspects of the camera, as well as the performance of the lens, that emphasize this claim.
We always keep the photographer in focus
Dr. Winfried Scherle, head of the Camera Lens Division at Carl Zeiss AG substantiates the claim: "The idea of the Zeiss Ikon camera is based on a philosophy that focuses on photographers and all their creativity when designing pictures. We extensively analyzed the leading range-finder cameras, looked for and found aspects in need of improvement."
For example, precise focusing and basic requirements for crisp pictures. The Zeiss Ikon camera supports photographers with a uniquely large measuring basis of 75mm. The large measuring basis delivers high precision, particularly for photos in the near range when photographers want to focus on a certain detail in their subject. This is additionally supported by a bright viewfinder image that is approximately 30 percent brighter than the best existing systems as a result of the generously dimensioned optics. Focusing criteria can be significantly better assessed - even under difficult lighting conditions.
The extremely fast shutter speed of 1/2000 seconds opens up an entire new range of possibilities when designing pictures. All functions can be manually set. An intelligent aperture priority is also available to photographers with the Zeiss Ikon camera. It is equipped with an easy-to-use AE lock. This very useful function, particularly for subjects with significant differences in brightness, such as landscapes with bright skies, which are otherwise often under exposed.
User friendly
Anyone who does not constantly use a camera will be happy to have a simple, intuitive system. This is where Zeiss Ikon was systematically constructed to be user friendly. Loading the camera is as easy as with an SLR camera. When selecting the image segment, the frame that best fits the lens focal length is automatically displayed in the viewfinder. The respective objective lens focal length is also shown within this frame. Photographers also receive assistance when they select the correct exposure time or aperture. The actual exposure value (permanent) and the value recommended by the measuring system (blinking) are displayed in the viewfinder window using illuminated diodes. A digital diode is available for each value, twelve in total. The popular exposure correction function is located on the shutter speed knob and can be set without taking the camera away from the eye.
Extensive lens set
Brilliant, true-color, razor-sharp pictures, free from distortion are key requirements in creative photography. Development of this completely new, powerful set of lenses for the Zeiss Ikon camera was geared toward these basic requirements. It comprises a total of seven fixed focal length lenses ranging from a 15mm, ultra wide angle up to an 85mm portrait tele-lens. Thanks to standard lens mounts, these can be used with practically all standard range-finding cameras and are also suitable for digital photography.
Carl Zeiss also paid particular attention to minimal focus shift when developing the lens. The term describes the phenomenon of the focal plane wandering when the diaphragm is adjusted. With Zeiss Ikon lenses, this effect is so strongly reduced that it remains within the depth-of-field range and does not affect the quality of the picture.
Uniform and neutral color rendition was also listed in the Carl Zeiss function specifications given to developers and engineers. Based on knowledge gained from developing lenses for the movie industry and special ZEISS patents in this area, Carl Zeiss succeeded in achieving perfect color matching throughout the entire lens set, enabling each lens in the set to feature a uniform color characteristic.
The lens diaphragm consisting of 10 blades is equipped with a third-step click-stop, enabling particularly precise exposure.
Programmed quality
When it comes to processing quality and expected product life, customers place high demands on products from Carl Zeiss. In order to achieve this during production of the Zeiss Ikon camera, tolerances on the housing and all mechanical interfaces between the camera and lens lie in the range of a few micrometers. Extensive tests, such as shock, vibration, cold, heat and moisture are carried out in the Carl Zeiss environmental laboratory and the performance of the system under all realistic conditions is checked. A protocol is created that guarantees maximum quality and long life expectancy – beginning in production.
Worldwide availability
Long-time Carl Zeiss partner, Victor Hasselblad AB (Sweden), will take over worldwide (except Japan) distribution for the Zeiss Ikon camera system. "Distribution of the Zeiss Ikon system required a partner with years of experience in high-quality cameras and who boasts a worldwide sales network. We are very pleased to have found such a partner in Hasselblad. A unique basis of trust exists as a result of the long-lasting partnership with sophisticated medium format systems which both companies view as an important requirement for success," explains Dr. Winfried Scherle on the decision to select Hasselblad.
Focused on the future
Four lenses – 50mm Planar f/2 ZM, 35mm Biogon f/2 ZM, 28mm Biogon f/2.8 ZM and 25mm Biogon f/2.8 ZM – will be available after Photokina 2004. The actual camera will be in stores in early 2005 followed by three additional lenses which will round out the line: Biogon 2.8/21 ZM, Distagon 2.8/15 ZM and Sonnar 2/85 ZM. The lenses have already been developed taking into account the special requirements of a foreseeable digital camera and can be used with all common range-finder cameras – both digital and analog.
pvdhaar
Peter
Yippiee! With rangefinders from Leica, Rollei, Voigtlander and Zeiss filling up the stores it'll feel like I'm living in the sixties again!
K
Kris
Guest
If I read it correctly, it has RF baselength of 75mm; longer than Leica M? Viewfinder 30% brighter than Bessa R2 or M7/MP?!
Now, who's interested in Bessa R2 + 50/1.5 + 35/2.5 + 75/2.5? I need to raise fund for this new Zeiss toy!
Now, who's interested in Bessa R2 + 50/1.5 + 35/2.5 + 75/2.5? I need to raise fund for this new Zeiss toy!
Last edited by a moderator:
We still need to learn the price of this little bad boy Kris. I fear that will take the wind out of my sails quite fast.
K
Kris
Guest
Damn you're right rover. The result of partnership between Zeiss and Hasselblad won't have good price.
I need to start begging to Oscar to share his cookie crumbs and to Peter to donate a couple of his R2s and 35mm lenses.
I need to start begging to Oscar to share his cookie crumbs and to Peter to donate a couple of his R2s and 35mm lenses.
Good point, Hasselblad will add a third to the price for distribution, this doesn't sound good for our heroes.
hinius
Member
Check out http://www.zeissikon.com and http://www.zeissikon.com/faq.htm. The camera and some of the lenses are made by Cosina; it could be cheaper than you think...
taffer
void
Hmmm... hmmmmm...
I'm running out of cookie crumbs... but finished yesterday a nice pigeon dress... I'm p lanning on visiting some parks and put my best hungry face...
'My life as a pigeon', doesn't sound that bad eh ?
I'm running out of cookie crumbs... but finished yesterday a nice pigeon dress... I'm p lanning on visiting some parks and put my best hungry face...
'My life as a pigeon', doesn't sound that bad eh ?
Pherdinand
the snow must go on
Q: Are ZI lenses better than other M bayonet lenses on the market?
A: Yes, we are pretty sure.
I wonder if i'm alone with this, but i find this extremely funny. Just like something you can hear at the flea market.
Nice looking gadget, anyway.
A: Yes, we are pretty sure.
I wonder if i'm alone with this, but i find this extremely funny. Just like something you can hear at the flea market.Nice looking gadget, anyway.
charlesfoto
Established
Well, I think I'm going to look at it as another toy, rather than a new, cutting edge piece of equipment. Would this new gear give me BETTER results than I get with my Contax G2 and M6? I doubt it. I think this may become attractive for those who can afford adding gear on a whim. I can't, so I'll follow this with interest but stick to my current gear.
S
Socke
Guest
charlesfoto said:Well, I think I'm going to look at it as another toy, rather than a new, cutting edge piece of equipment. Would this new gear give me BETTER results than I get with my Contax G2 and M6? I doubt it. I think this may become attractive for those who can afford adding gear on a whim. I can't, so I'll follow this with interest but stick to my current gear.
Or those who contemplate a M-Mount camera
The Zeiss Ikon with the 35mm as a starter and the 85 later makes a good companion to my G2.
GeneW
Veteran
Beautiful looking camera, and how lucky we are to have another entry in the rangefinder category!
I'd love to see this one in black.
Gene
I'd love to see this one in black.
Gene
jdos2
Well-known
I want it (but of course!) but I think I'll explore my G2 for a while longer.
About to get another Kiev too.
About to get another Kiev too.
It appears to be a very well thought out machine. There is some real wow power in that camera in my eyes. I can't wait to see some hands on reviews and and images taken with the lenses.
Prediction, in a few years (how ever long the agreement Cosina has with Zeiss is) it will be rebadged and reintroduced as the Bessa R4.
Prediction, in a few years (how ever long the agreement Cosina has with Zeiss is) it will be rebadged and reintroduced as the Bessa R4.
Honu-Hugger
Well-known
Back to the Future?
Back to the Future?
It's a great looking camera and I can hardly wait to handle one. At the same time, it is all very familiar -- I doubt that I'll be trading my II and IIa gear for this. I'll readily admit to my own prejudices, but even when having owned cameras with very sophisticated metering systems I never used them; I will probably always be a committed hand metering guy. So the metering system on this is a mute point for me, without that there may not be much difference in what they offered fifty years ago.
D2
Back to the Future?
It's a great looking camera and I can hardly wait to handle one. At the same time, it is all very familiar -- I doubt that I'll be trading my II and IIa gear for this. I'll readily admit to my own prejudices, but even when having owned cameras with very sophisticated metering systems I never used them; I will probably always be a committed hand metering guy. So the metering system on this is a mute point for me, without that there may not be much difference in what they offered fifty years ago.
D2
Jeroen
Well-known
Maybe I don't see it, but everybody who's saying it's a beautiful camera - the pictures I've seen are merely artist impressions. And bad ones, too...
markrich
Enthusiatic amatuer
Mmmmm......new toy.....mmmm
R
Rich Silfver
Guest
In case anyone missed the pdf: http://www.zeissikon.com/files/ZeissIkon_brochure_English.pdf
iMacfan
Established
I think that it is an excellent camera, and just what Leica needed (i.e. a kick up the...)
However, for me, just about ready to purchase my first M-mount RF, there are two problems.
1. 7 months! I can hardly wait long enough for a meal from McDonalds.
2. Price. I'd accept a ~50% markup over the Bessas, for the longer RF alone. However, I have heard murmurings that the price will be about a third below that of an MP/M7, which will make it well over double the price of a R3a. That, in my opinion (and wallet), is far too much, though it might attract more current Leica users, who would look down on it more if it were cheaper.
Anyhow, I called Hassleblad UK today, and they say they should have some idea of the pricing next week. Using them as a distributor has gotten me worried. They were very helpful, but I fear that if I do manage to save up enough money and wait long enough, it might be a better idea to buy a new Mercedes SL55 with it and use the spare change to get a couple of MPs:bang:
David
However, for me, just about ready to purchase my first M-mount RF, there are two problems.
1. 7 months! I can hardly wait long enough for a meal from McDonalds.
2. Price. I'd accept a ~50% markup over the Bessas, for the longer RF alone. However, I have heard murmurings that the price will be about a third below that of an MP/M7, which will make it well over double the price of a R3a. That, in my opinion (and wallet), is far too much, though it might attract more current Leica users, who would look down on it more if it were cheaper.
Anyhow, I called Hassleblad UK today, and they say they should have some idea of the pricing next week. Using them as a distributor has gotten me worried. They were very helpful, but I fear that if I do manage to save up enough money and wait long enough, it might be a better idea to buy a new Mercedes SL55 with it and use the spare change to get a couple of MPs:bang:
David
K
Kris
Guest
Jeroen said:
Jeroen, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.
Does anyone notice that some of the lenses have focusing range down to 0.3m? Does that mean the camera RF coupling range is also down to 0.3m?
Grrr...this Zeiss Ikon is really BAD! Aperture priority, long RF baselength, electronic shutter = quiet shutter(?), and there is this 85/2.0 lens in the making. :bang: :bang: :bang:
Luckily my CV stuff are 2nd hand except the PII. Hopefully I don't loose too much if I have to put them on *bay.