Leica launches new black-and-white film for 100th anniversary of 35mm camera
To mark the 100th anniversary of the Leica I, the company launches its own black-and-white film for the 35mm format for the first time: Monopan 50.
To mark the centenary of the legendary Leica I, the Wetzlar-based company launches its first black-and-white film for the 35 mm format. With the "Monopan 50", Leica presents its own 35mm film material for the first time. The manufacturer wanted to honor the era of 35mm photography that began with the Leica I in 1925.
Film characteristics
(Image:Â Leica)
Monopan 50 is a black-and-white film with a sensitivity of ISO 50. According to the manufacturer, it is characterized by a particularly fine grain and delivers a high resolution of up to 280 line pairs per millimetre. Leica also emphasizes the so-called "superpanchromatic" sensitization. This refers to the film's ability to capture light waves up to 780 nanometers – a range that already extends into the near infrared range. This also makes the film suitable for creative infrared photography and the combination with color filters.
Due to its low light sensitivity, Monopan 50 is particularly suitable for bright light conditions. In combination with fast lenses, for example from the Noctilux or Summilux series, the film enables images with an open aperture. This creates the bokeh that Leica photographers appreciate. Due to its high resolution and tonal value reproduction, the film is particularly suitable for large-format prints and high-quality scans.
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Application and availability
(Image:Â Leica)
According to Leica, the film, which is produced in Germany, is primarily aimed at photographers working with landscape, architecture or urban motifs. Monopan 50 can be processed in standard black and white developers. The retro design of the packaging is reminiscent of the early days of 35mm photography.
The Monopan 50 will be available in Leica Stores and from authorized dealers worldwide from 21 August 2025. The recommended retail price is 12 euros.
Leica's anniversary year
The film will be launched as part of the worldwide celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Leica I, which are being held under the motto "100 Years of Leica: Witness to a Century". Events will take place worldwide throughout the year, culminating in a week of celebrations at the company's headquarters in Wetzlar in June 2025.
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