RESOURCE GUIDE TO: DESIGNER CAMERAS
By Rory Aledort
Not only are cameras mandatory instruments for photographers, but they have become so for the world at large. People find pleasure in capturing special moments and sharing memories. Since not everyone can draw or paint, photography is a much easier (and quicker) way to do it.
But cameras are not just utilitarian tools. They can be a way to show how deep your pockets are. Depression/recession be damned: a few camera manufacturers have recently added some ‘bling’ to their gear. These special limited editions prove that purses and sunglasses are not the only status symbols you can carry around. Luxury has found its way into the hands of photographers.
Canon Powershot G12 Diane von Furstenberg. The fashion designer adds an Andy Warhol-designed lip print made with Swarovski crystals. Only 50 cameras are available, exclusivley sold on luxury online boutique AhaLife for $625 – www.ahalife.com
Leica M9 Titanium, a collaboration between Leica and automobile designer Walter de’Silva. Exteriors elements made out of solid titanium. Only 500 cameras available. Approx. $29,000 – www.us.leica-camera.com
Lomo Lubitel 166+. The camera is a recreation of a Soviet-era classic. Shoots both medium format and 35mm film. $350 – www.lomography.com
Leica M7 Limited Edition Hermès. The luxury good manufacturer added a leather cover to the camera. Comes in brown or the famous Hermès orange. Only 100 cameras are available in each color. Approx. $15,000 – www.en.leica-camera.com
Pentax K5 Silver. Limited edition. Silver finish, slick looking. Approx. $1,700 – www.pentax.com
Lomo Diana Deluxe Kit. It has “deluxe” in its name so we had to include it. Lomography’s classic camera with all its accessories. $240 – www.lomography.com
Leica O-Series. Only 25 cameras were produced… back in 1923. One of them recently sold at auction for $1.9 million.
Hasselblad H4D Ferrari Edition. Only 499 cameras were made. Camera body bears the famous Ferrari red color and logo. Approx. $31,000 – www.hasselblad.com
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