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What makes Leica such a special brand is its ability to launch collector editions. From black paint Leicas to silver lenses, the German company has a variety of products that are designed to meet the demands of customers. Some prefer the black paint Leica, as when it weathers, one can see the brass metal beneath, giving the camera a more used but regal appearance. Just like these editions, it is also famously known for its Safari edition, with the M10-P being the last camera launched in olive green color. However, reports state that Leica is currently working on a new Safari edition, but this time, with the M11-P.
According to Leica Rumors, the company may launch a new Safari edition soon with the Leica M11-P. However, the details of the price, launch date, or the lens that will come with it are still under wraps. For the uninitiated, the Leica Safari edition with enamel finish was introduced for “in the field use.” This means that the first ‘Olive’ Leica, launched in 1960, the Leica M1, was created for the German military, thanks to the company’s robust designs. From there on, there was no looking back. The company launched the M3 and the M4 in olive colors for the armed forces, but in 1977, the company turned this into the Safari edition as we know it so well today. The first camera was the R3, which was the response to the demand for a green Leica. Then it was followed by M6 TTL in 2000, the M8.2 in 2008, the M-P in 2015, and the M10-P in 2019.
In the press release of the M10-P Safari, we found that the camera was identical to the original model in terms of performance and specs, but the difference was the accessories. So, if the M11-P Safari edition is launched anytime soon, it will also follow a similar pattern. The M10-P Safari came with a strap and an SD memory card case, which were created from “Brandycoloured, genuine full grain cowhide.” In addition, 1,500 such olive green models were available. However, the 50mm f2 Safari elns were sold separately, which was the first time the company had ever launched an M-lens in that shade. Unlike the camera, the lenses were only available in limited units up to 500.
Usually, a limited edition camera is far more expensive than the average Leica model. So, we do believe that the M11-P Safari edition could rake in up to thousands of dollars. However, we also must remember that the company is reportedly going to increase the prices of its gear due to tariffs, and if that comes into play, then a limited edition camera could cost more. We unfortunately can’t give you a number, since we aren’t sure how much the Safari edition will cost. The resale value, however, of the Safari model is quite high. On eBay, the Safari model M-P (Typ 240) with a 35 mm lens is for $8,095, while the M10-P body only is for $12,000.
Considering this, it is safe to say that no matter how much you spend on a Safari model, you are likely to get a little more in resale value. If you have the money for it, then purchasing a collector’s item can benefit you in the long run.
