For more than a century, Leica has been making precision optical instruments that have transformed image-making. These tools are particularly ideal for creatives, especially those who work with visual media. That's why Leica's collaboration with Walt Disney, who developed his passion for animation 100 years ago, is a perfect match.
Disney created sophisticated storyboards for cartoons using Leica cameras and projectors (then known as Leitz called) since the very first days of animation. To celebrate the film studios' anniversary, Disney and Leica celebrated their shared history with - the special limited edition of the Leica Q2 | Disney "100 Years of Wonder".
Disney revolutionized animated film techniques using the very latest Leica instruments available at the time. The impact of this change was so great that a new term, "Leica Reel", was coined during that period.
“Leica Reels” are created by projecting animated stills onto 35mm film, resulting in a highly sophisticated process where the images are perfectly synchronized with the soundtrack to create a precise tempo for each sequence.
The design of the special edition of the Leica Q2 camera was inspired by a model sheet created in 1937 by Don Towsley, a noted animator from the Walt Disney Studio. The top plate of the camera features a Mickey Mouse print and the packaging includes a protective sleeve with matching Disney graphics and a unique carrying strap.
The Leica Q2 | Disney "100 Years of Wonder" immediately evokes a sense of imagination: it is decorated with a very special material reminiscent of the tracing paper on which Disney's creators drew scenes and characters, which not only gives the camera a refined aesthetic, but also makes it even more interesting for collectors.
Availability and price
The special edition is limited to 500 sets worldwide and will be available worldwide from April 2023 at Leica Store Amsterdam and the Leica Store Lisse. The recommended retail price will be €6,200 incl. VAT.
Source: Transcontinenta
