Leica Unveils California-Cool Camera Collaboration with Vans and Ray Barbee

Leica went totally off the wall with this one, and in the best way possible. Back with another amazing, limited-edition collaboration, Leica Camera AG is tapping into Southern California’s legendary skate culture.

Bringing to the realm of photography the iconic checkerboard pattern, Leica has teamed up with Vans and skater, musician and photographer Ray Barbee for the Leica D-Lux 7 Vans x Ray Barbee.

“I am very honored to be working with both Vans and Leica – not just to show the connection between skating and photography, but also to celebrate the enormous contributions of both brands in their respective fields," Barbee said. "The coming together of these two brands represents a truly special collaboration”.

The unique camera is covered in Van’s classic black-and-white print and features Barbee’s signature on the top plate, along with the Vault logo, which is solely reserved for Vans' highest-end products. People who buy the $1,695 camera will also receive a vibrant petrol blue carrier strap and dust bag in the same color.

Up to par with all Leica products, this limited edition item has the same technical specifications as the serially produced model, the Leica D-Lux 7. It features a large Micro Four Thirds sensor and a fast zoom lens with a full-frame equivalent range of 24-75 mm.

Embroidered on the bag are two quotes. On one side is a motto by Barbee that can sum up this venture with Leica: “The joy is in capturing the journey.” On the other side are the famous words of Ernst Leitz II “Ich entscheide hiermit: Es wird riskiert” (“I hereby decide: the risk shall be taken”). These momentous words are what actually approved the production of the Lecia I in 1924. The quotes will also be embellished on T-shirts and shoes that Vans will send to everyone who bought from this collection beginning Dec. 10.

In honor of the collaboration, Leica will host a photo exhibition at their gallery in Los Angeles to celebrate Barbee's work. You can see Barbee’s journey yourself at 8783 Beverly Blvd. in West Hollywood.

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