Leica announces new M9 and X1 digital cameras

Leica has announced the upcoming release of two new digital camera models: the M9 and X1. 

According to the German manufacturer, the Leica M9 is "the world's smallest full-frame system camera," with its 24 x 36mm, 18-megapixel sensor.  Kodak has developed the CCD sensor features, which include improved offset microlenses for optimizing performance along the frame's edges and a a sensor cover for improved filtering of infrared light. The camera features an ISO range of 160 to 2,500, 2.5-inch LCD screen and is still compatible with Leica M8 and M8.2 accessories. It starts shipping in the United Kingdom today for a price tag of £4,850 (~$8,004).

The X1 is a bit on the lower-end, packed with a 35mm equivalent field-of-view F2.8 autofocus lens, 2.7-inch LCD screen and a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor in APS-C format, typically found in larger DSLR cameras. It could also shoot well in adverse conditions, with the power to shoot at ISO 3200. Both cameras support SD/SDHC flash media. There is not an announced price for the Leica X1 yet, but it should start shipping in the UK in January 2010. 

I do love those retro-looking cameras, but they're not exactly affordable. Would you be interested in buying either of these new cameras?

[Photos via Digital Photography Review]