Leica to Launch Kumamon-Edition M & C Cameras

Leica is set to release two highly limited editions of its world class cameras, both aimed squarely at Japanese shutterbugs. The Kumamon M and C models have been created in honor of Kumamon, a lovable bear who serves as the official mascot of Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture. The special edition cameras incorporate the bear’s famous face and name onto the cameras’ bodies, giving each model a very subtle look that differentiates it from stock Leica. But even with the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it aesthetic addition, these cameras should have no problems finding suitors — Kumamon is wildly popular throughout all of Japan, raking in billions of yen a year through merchandising. It is clear the new Leicas will be in very high demand; supply however, is a different story. Leica plans to make only 50 examples of the special edition C, and in a move inspired by Wu-Tang, will make just one example of the Kumamon M. Rest assured, these editions will be limited in every sense of the word, because if there’s one thing Leica understands better than perhaps anyone, it’s the power of exclusivity. Check out images of the Kumamon Leicas above, and if you’re in Japan, try searching one out for yourself.