*LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14-50mm/F2.8-3.5 ASPH Lens*

Leica Camera AG http://www.leica-camera.com/ and
Panasonichttp://www.panasonic.co.uk/are pleased to announce the
development of a new interchangeable lens based
on the Four Thirds standard. Featuring a focal length from 14mm to 50mm
(35mm equivalent: 28mm to 100mm), the new LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT
14-50mm/F2.8-3.5 lens is the first interchangeable lens from Leica
developed exclusively for digital SLR cameras. The "D" signifies that it
is designed for the new digital system.

The partnership between Leica and Panasonic has resulted in rigorous
quality standards for the development and manufacturing of this
interchangeable lens, so that the technology and expertise of Leica
Camera and Panasonic will be integrated at their highest levels. Both
Panasonic and Leica Camera AG are confident that the results of their
cooperative efforts will be successful and highly evaluated by
customers.

The LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT lens comprises 16 elements in 12 groups,
including two aspherical lenses. It provides high definition image
rendering that conveys even the finest details and nuances. It minimizes
distortion and peripheral vignetting at the wide end. And to draw the
best optical performance out of this compact lens, a large-diameter
aspherical glass molded lens is also incorporated. With the LEICA D
VARIO-ELMARIT, users can now experience the unique performance of Leica
optical technology in the world of digital photography.

For use in Panasonic's LUMIX cameras, the LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT
14-50mm/F2.8-3.5 ASPH lens incorporates MEGA O.I.S. Developed entirely
by Panasonic, this advanced optical image stabilization system makes it
possible * without using a tripod * to capture clear, beautiful images
even in macro shooting or low-lit situations, giving users more shooting
flexibility. And to assure precise control over the MEGA O.I.S., the
Venus Engine is integrated into the lens unit. Together with the full-
time Live View function, these two important features make the DMC-L1
(also being introduced) a digital SLR camera that offers an entirely new
kind of photographic experience.

To improve operating ease, there is an aperture ring in addition to the
focus ring and zoom ring, giving users more intuitive aperture
adjustment. Another distinctive L1 feature is the shutter speed dial on
the camera body. Thanks to features like these, the L1 offers a more
comfortable and enjoyable shooting experience than conventional digital
SLR cameras.

The LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14-50mm/F2.8-3.5 ASPH is not simply a standard
interchangeable lens for digital SLR cameras, but rather an exclusive
one with features such as MEGA O.I.S. and an aperture ring.

Leica Camera AG and Panasonic affirm their commitment to developing
innovative, high-performance lenses that meet the latest demands in
today's evolving digital era.

--

Alfred Molon
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