Leica and Formula 1 Unveil Q3 43 Special Edition Camera in Singapore Priced at S$12,590

Leica Camera and Formula 1 have joined forces in a new licensing partnership, unveiling the Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition, a special edition camera that combines Leica’s photographic craftsmanship with design elements inspired by the world of motorsport.

Officially unveiled at an exclusive event at the Leica Store and Leica Gallery in Los Angeles, the camera features a distinctive black and red design with genuine carbon fibre components, racing inspired textures and Formula 1 branding. The event was presented by Formula 1 presenter Ariana Bravo and 2009 FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion Jenson Button. Guests also viewed an exhibition of 26 motorsport photographs by Italian photographer Callo Albanese, who specialises in Formula 1 photography.

The collaboration brings together two brands that share a focus on precision, innovation and performance. Both photography and motorsport depend on capturing decisive moments, where timing and technical execution can make a difference.

The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition builds on the standard Leica Q3 43, with its most noticeable changes appearing in the materials and detailing. Genuine carbon fibre is used for the wireless charging handgrip, soft release button and thumb rest. The carbon fibre components are manufactured and tested exclusively in Germany, bringing a material commonly associated with high-performance racing cars into Leica’s camera design.

The carbon fibre finish is complemented by a black Microvelour covering inspired by the texture of racing steering wheels. Red accents on the soft release button and one of the function buttons on the thumb rest reflect the colour coded controls used in Formula 1 cockpits. An F1 logo appears on the camera’s top plate and lens cap, while the set also includes a specially designed rope carrying strap bearing both brands’ logos.

Custom packaging with a red inlay completes the presentation. Together, the details give the camera a consistent motorsport inspired aesthetic while retaining the underlying design of the Leica Q3 43.

At its core, the special edition retains the imaging capabilities of the Leica Q3 43. It is equipped with an APO Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH. lens, offering a perspective intended to closely resemble how the human eye sees the world. The focal length is suited to capturing people, surroundings and the atmosphere of locations such as racetrack paddocks, where photographers often work at close range.

The camera uses a back illuminated full frame CMOS sensor with Leica’s Triple Resolution Technology, allowing images to be captured at 60, 36 or 18 megapixels. A hybrid autofocus system and video recording capabilities round out its technical features.

Leica and Formula 1 have also developed an exclusive Formula 1 image look for the camera. Available through the Leica FOTOS app, the look uses higher contrast and richer saturation to reflect the visual atmosphere of motorsport. Photographers can apply the effect while shooting and preview the result in the viewfinder, rather than relying solely on post processing. The app also allows images and videos to be transferred to mobile devices.

The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition will be available from 21 October 2026 through Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and specialist retailers. Its recommended retail price is S$12,590, inclusive of GST. The camera is also compatible with photography accessories designed for the Leica Q3 and Q3 43.