The Goods

The Goods June 2007

Fancy This

Some cameras are status symbols, and the new Leica C-LUX 2 ($499, estimated street) is destined to become one. The ultracompact 7.2MP point-and-shoot not only has a slender body and 2.5-inch display, it also packs a lot of power. There's fast performance, an optically stabilized f/2.8-5.6 (28-100mm 35mm equivalent) Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 3.6X zoom lens, and an Intelligent ISO mode that detects motion and adjusts shutter speed and ISO. Based on the Panasonic Lumix FX30 ($300, street), the Leica version has its own firmware, a long warranty, and cosmetics (accented by the famous red dot). To get the maximum envy from your friends, though, slip it into its retro-sleek leather case ($50, estimated street, not shown).