While Leica might have put finesse and picture quality over durability in the past, the company says its new camera is built to be "simply unstoppable."
Adventure-tested, the Leica X-U takes being ultra rugged to new levels, as the camera is waterproof, shockproof and dust-sealed, seemingly able to handle any condition that comes its way.
Slated to hit Leica stores and be available on the company's website later this month, the X-U can withstand windblown snow in frigid winter conditions, sandstorms or torrential rain. However, its ability to be submerged in water up to 49 feet over 60 minutes without sustaining any damage is what truly stands out about its rugged composition.
The X-U additionally features TPE armoring for an assured grip and a toughened protective cover for the three-inch LCD screen.
While the new model's beefed-up rugged body and durability will cost adventure and travel photographers $3,000, at least potential buyers will have the peace of mind in knowing that Leica didn't compromise the picture quality with which its cameras have become synonymous.
The X-U touts a 16.5 megapixel APS-C sensor and 23 mm fixed lens with a blazing-fast f/1.7 aperture.
Although the action camera market is dominated by GoPro and Leica's new model is at a price point that not everyone can afford, there's no denying that the company managed to bring up its durability several notches to meet its pristine picture quality with the X-U.
