Leica Unveils Monopan 50: The First Branded Film in 100 Years
Leica, a name synonymous with excellence in photography, is thrilled to announce its foray into the world of film once again. In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Leica has launched Monopan 50, a groundbreaking 50-ISO black-and-white film that is set to transform the cinematic landscape for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
A Historic Milestone in Photography
In a recent press release, Leica reflected on its legacy: “The Leica I, introduced in 1925, revolutionized photography by establishing the 35mm format as the industry standard.” This innovative camera paved the way for countless iconic moments captured on “Leica film,” despite the original film being produced by major names like Kodak, Agfa, and Perutz.
Monopan 50 is more than just a film; it’s a tribute to the centenary of the Leica I and a bold step into its illustrious past. As a true embodiment of 35mm photography, Monopan 50 offers 36 exposures packed with the quality that Leica is known for.
Unmatched Performance and Specifications
Leica describes Monopan 50 as high-resolution film with an enhanced spectral sensitivity that promises to elevate your photography game. The name itself carries significant meaning:
- “Mono” refers to Leica’s distinguished Monochrom series of digital cameras.
- “Pan” highlights the film’s impressive panchromatic properties.
- “50” denotes its ISO rating, aligning it with classics yet optimized for modern lenses.
With a resolving power of 280 line pairs per millimeter and a superpanchromatic sensitivity reaching up to 780nm, this film is compatible with infrared photography, providing an exciting dimension for artists looking to explore new territory in black-and-white imagery.
Inspired by Oskar Barnack’s Vision
Monopan 50 encapsulates Oskar Barnack’s vision of “small negative – big picture.” It’s designed with Leica lenses in mind, providing photographers with a harmonious pairing that enhances optical performance, especially when producing high-end large-format prints or detailed scans.
By choosing a 50-ISO speed, Leica pays homage to the original films from Barnack’s era, crafted to work seamlessly with fast lenses like the Noctilux-M and Summilux-M, even under bright conditions. This thoughtful design not only respects the brand’s heritage but also speaks to the technical demands of today’s photographers.
Vintage Aesthetic Meets Modern Quality
Produced in Germany, Monopan 50 is tailored for landscape, architectural, cityscape, and travel photography. It’s compatible with all black-and-white developers, ensuring photographers retain complete control over their creations. With vintage-style packaging that evokes the pioneering days of 35mm, this film encourages modern photographers to carry forward a rich legacy while pushing their creative boundaries.
Availability and Pricing
Mark your calendars! Monopan 50 will be available from Leica Stores and retailers worldwide starting August 21, 2025, with a suggested retail price of £10/€12 per roll. Prepare to immerse yourself in a new era of black-and-white photography that honors the past while embracing the future.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, Leica’s Monopan 50 promises to bring breathtaking quality and historical depth to your photography experience. Get ready to create captivating images that resonate with the legacy of a century of innovation.
For more details, visit the official Leica website.
