100 years and counting: Leica Camera’s Dr Andreas Kaufmann on the brand’s remarkable legacy

As Leica Camera marks its centennial anniversary, the brand continues to captivate photographers with a unique balance of tradition and cutting-edge technology.

In this interview with Gulf Business, Dr Andreas Kaufmann, chairman of the Supervisory Board of Leica Camera, shares the brand’s milestones and vision for the future, highlighting its legacy in shaping the art of photography, iconic models and upcoming innovations.

Leica is celebrating an extraordinary 100-year legacy in photography. How would you describe the evolution of Leica over the past century, and what do you consider the brand’s most significant contribution to the world of photography? Tell us about models that have been disruptive for their time.

Leica’s journey began in 1925 when Ernst Leitz II made the pivotal decision to mass-produce Oskar Barnack’s groundbreaking invention, the ‘Ur-Leica’, which led to the Leica I. This compact 35mm camera forever changed visual storytelling by allowing photographers to capture real-life moments with remarkable portability. It made it possible to capture the “decisive moment” in real-time, sparking entirely new forms of photography such as reportage, documentary, street, and artistic photography.

Over the decades, Leica has continued to evolve, with each new model representing a leap in photographic technology and artistry. The Leica M series, starting with the M3 in 1954, became an iconic model, renowned for its rangefinder design, precision, and reliability. It defined photojournalism and street photography, setting the standard for decades.

In more recent years, the Leica SL and Q series have introduced cutting-edge mirrorless technology and advanced digital imaging while maintaining the brand’s core values of craftsmanship and excellence. Each of these models has been disruptive in its own right, pushing the boundaries of photography while preserving Leica’s commitment to quality and precision.

As Leica continues to innovate while maintaining its heritage of craftsmanship, how do you balance tradition with cutting-edge technology, particularly in the rapidly changing landscape of photography and digital imaging?

At Leica, tradition and innovation are not opposing forces but complementary pillars of our philosophy. We honour our heritage of craftsmanship by ensuring every product reflects the meticulous precision and timeless design that Leica is known for. At the same time, we embrace cutting-edge technology to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.

This balance is achieved by listening to our community of photographers and understanding their needs. For instance, while the M series continues to offer the tactile experience of a mechanical rangefinder, we’ve integrated advanced digital capabilities into models like the SL and Q series. These cameras feature state-of-the-art sensors, enhanced autofocus systems, and seamless connectivity while maintaining Leica’s signature aesthetics and ergonomics.

Our approach to innovation also extends to sustainability. For example, we’ve optimised production processes to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the durability and longevity of our products. By blending tradition with technology, Leica remains a brand that photographers can trust, whether they are using film or digital formats.

The 100th anniversary celebrations in Dubai are truly special, including the Burj Khalifa projection and an exclusive gala. What does this milestone mean for the company, and why was Dubai chosen as the backdrop for the event?

Celebrating a century of Leica is not just about looking back; it’s about embracing the future of photography. This milestone is a testament to the lasting impact of Leica on the art of image-making and its enduring relevance in a rapidly changing world.

Dubai, with its remarkable blend of tradition and modernity, is the perfect stage for this celebration. The city represents innovation, cultural diversity, and architectural brilliance — all values that resonate with Leica. The Burj Khalifa projection, a symbol of ambition and achievement, aligns with our brand’s legacy of pushing boundaries.

The gala and other celebratory events in Dubai are not just about commemorating 100 years — they are a way to connect with a global audience, inspire the next generation of photographers, and showcase how Leica continues to innovate while preserving its heritage.

Leica has navigated a century of success. How has your vision shaped Leica’s direction, and what do you hope the next generation of photographers will take away from the brand’s rich legacy?

My vision for Leica has always been to preserve its essence while enabling it to adapt to the needs of modern photographers. Leica is not just a brand; it’s a symbol of excellence, a tool for storytelling, and a source of inspiration for artists worldwide.

Over the years, we’ve focused on fostering creativity and building a community that values the power of imagery. Leica is more than a camera — it’s an experience, a bridge between the photographer and the world they capture.

For the next generation, I hope Leica inspires a deeper appreciation for the art of photography. In a world saturated with digital images, Leica encourages photographers to slow down, focus on meaningful moments, and create images that stand the test of time.

We’ve heard about an exclusive photography exhibition taking place at Foundry from January 22nd to 26th. Can you share more about what visitors can expect from this exhibit, and what inspired this idea?

The exhibition, Light, Lens, Legacy, is a tribute to Leica’s 100-year journey in shaping the art of photography. It honours the brand’s profound contribution to the craft by showcasing 100 iconic images that have not only documented history but also left an enduring legacy on the global collective memory.

Visitors will experience a thoughtfully curated collection featuring remarkable moments captured by exceptional photographers over the decades. Each photograph highlights Leica’s role as more than a camera manufacturer — a silent witness to history, enabling creators to immortalize life’s most significant and personal moments.

This exhibition is inspired by Leica’s unwavering dedication to storytelling through photography. For a century, Leica cameras have been trusted by those capturing everything from groundbreaking global events to intimate, everyday narratives.

What new products and innovations can we expect from the brand in 2025? How do you see the future of photography evolving, and what role will it play in the next century of capturing memories?

At Leica, we typically don’t disclose details about products in development. However, in the coming years, you can look forward to seeing beautifully designed products that combine exceptional craftsmanship with high-edge technology.

Beyond cameras and optics, we are also exploring exciting innovations in the app and smartphone markets, continuing to expand Leica’s legacy of excellence into new dimensions.