Leica D-Lux 4 - Part II

I took my test pictures with the Leica D-Lux 4 and I am very pleased with them and impressed with the camera; it exceeded my expectations, which were quite high. The macro photos were unexpected with its quality. It is the perfect compact digital camera. However, I do not know if the rumored D-Lux 5 will exceed it or not, but will deal with that issue in due time. Until then, the D-Lux 4 is a Jewel.

The future is very unpredictable, at this time, specially with compact digital cameras; the technological advancements, that has slowed down quite a bit with bigger DSLR's or RF's, is fast and furious in this medium. The micro 4/3 systems are coming using the regular 4/3 size sensors. Leica has the C-Lux (P&S,) D-Lux (Top-of-the-Line P&S,) the V-Lux (Bridge Camera) and the Digilux (4/3) series of cameras made by Panasonic with Leica lenses. Will they discontinue the C-Lux or D-Lux series? What about the Digilux? I do not know for certain, but I do not think that Leica will keep all the lines of cameras; one or two series of cameras might be discontinued.

The D-lux 4 looks like a little retro Leica Rangefinder - a precious little baby - it is not cheap and neither are the accessories. I finally broke down and ordered the Leica Black Leather case at a great discount - $110.00 instead of $140. However, it fits the camera like a glove and it is very easy to put in the case or take it out. In the long run, it is worth the money.

It reminds me of the old story of the factory that stopped production because they had no electricity. The people in the factory tried unsuccessfully to restore power for four hours to no avail. Finally, the hot shot electrician was called in. After surveying the problem, he went to the electricity panel, turned a switch, and power was restored . His bill was $5,000 for less than five minutes work. The owner was enraged and complained bitterly to the electrician. The electrician agreed that his bill was wrong. His new one was more detailed:

1. Trip to the factory and turning the switch: $100.00
2. Knowing what switch to turn: $4,900.00

Therefore:

1. True price of the excellent, but small, leather case: $40.00
2. Best case that fits the D-Lux 4 like a glove and protects it well: $70.00