Leica and Panasonic Lumix Reaping Rewards. One of the major benefits of the Lumix system is Panasonic’s cooperative agreement with Leica, the world’s best lens company. I’ve been aware of Leica since my early days in photography. They are world renowned and have been since the beginning of 35mm cameras. When I became aware of Panasonic’s cooperative efforts with Leica, I was never really sure if the two companies were actually working together or just using each other for co-branding. I knew that Panasonic was making many of the very expensive Leica branded digital cameras and I also knew that Leica was allowing Lumix to use the little red Leica ball for many of their lenses. But I was never really sure if there was more to it than just helping each other out.
Early Leica and Panasonic cameras. Photo courtesy of Sound Image Plus
Thankfully, based on my extremely positive experience with two of the Lumix/Leica branded lenses, the 42.5mm F/1.2 and the 15mm F/1.7 as well as equally stellar results with Lumix Vario lenses such as the 12-35mm F/2.8 and the 35-100mm F/2.8, it’s obvious there is more going on behind the scenes than just cobranding. I recently read an interesting blog that sheds a bit more light on the benefits of this arrangement, especially when compared to what Sony and Zeiss are doing. It’s quite interesting and a must read for any of you interested in knowing more about the world’s finest lens company working with what I feel is the world’s best electronics company. It bodes well for all. I hope Panasonic will accomplish in the world of serious photography.