For over 100 years, Leica has been developing precise optical instruments which have revolutionised the world of imaging many times over. The perfect choice for creative people, particularly those who work with images. And therefore, the perfect collaboration for Walt Disney, who 100 years ago started to bring his vision and passion to animated filmmaking. Disney has been creating sophisticated cartoon storyboards using Leica (then called Leitz) cameras and projectors since the very early days of animation. To mark the anniversary of the film studios, Disney and Leica are now unveiling the closely guarded secret of their groundbreaking collaboration – the special limited-edition Leica Q2 | Disney “100 Years of Wonder”.
Disney dramatically changed the techniques of animated filmmaking thanks to the innovative Leica instruments of the time – and did so with such lasting effect that the term “Leica Reel” was coined during this period. “Leica Reels” are made from animated stills run on 35mm film projections. In this advanced process, the preliminary artwork is aligned with a soundtrack using combined techniques to get a very precise sense of the pace of a sequence.
The design applied to the special edition of the Leica Q2 camera dates back to a model sheet created in 1937 by one of Walt Disney Studio’s noted animators, Don Towsley. In addition, a Mickey Mouse print adorns the camera’s top plate. The special edition also includes a protective dust bag with matching original Disney graphics and a special rope strap.
The Leica Q2 | Disney “100 Years of Wonder” reveals an evocative imagination right at first glance: it is adorned with a very special material reminiscent of the tracing paper on which Disney’s creators penciled scenes and characters, which not only gives the camera a sophisticated aesthetic but also makes it even more interesting for amateur collectors.
The special edition is limited to 500 sets worldwide and will be available globally at Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and authorised dealers starting in April 2023. The recommended retail price will be 6,200 EUR incl. VAT.
Please find further information at:
Leica Camera AG
Ann-Kristin Löhr
Global PR Coordination
E-Mail: Ann-Kristin.Loehr@leica-camera.com
About Leica Camera
Leica Camera AG is an international premium manufacturer of cameras, lenses and sports optics products with over 150 years of company history. As part of its growth strategy, the company has expanded its business to include mobile imaging (smartphones) and the manufacture of high-quality eyeglass lenses and watches and is represented in the home cinema segment with its own projectors.
Headquartered in Wetzlar (Germany) and with a second production site in Vila Nova de Famalicão (Portugal), Leica Camera AG has a global network of its own sales companies with over 120 Leica Stores. The company employs 2,400 people and achieved a turnover of 554 million euros in the 2023/24 financial year.
The Leica brand stands for excellent quality, German craftsmanship and industrial design combined with innovative technologies. An integral part of the brand culture is the promotion of the culture of photography with around 30 Leica Galleries worldwide, Leica Academies and international awards such as the Leica Hall of Fame Award and the Leica Oskar Barnack Award (LOBA).