Look at that crazy Fuji X100 eBay auctions (What makes a camera such successful? What should Olympus and Panasonic learn from it?)
Look at that crazy price people is going to pay for the first Fuji X100 camera listed on eBay (Click here). The seller is probably becoming rich 
The price went up to US $2,292.31 and there are still three days left! There are now two more X100 on sale on eBay from Hong Kong (Click here) and Singapore (Click here). Those cameras will be sold for 2 or maybe 3 times the real price of the X100 which is 1199 Dollar/Euro (Check at Amazon, Adorama, B&H, J&R, eBay).
What I am questioning now is WHY a camera can become that popular. It doesn’t take interchangeable lenses, it’s not cheap, it has not a particularly amazing sensor. A wonder what Olympus and Panasonic should learn from that X100!DO you have an idea?
P.S:: You can see a dissembled X100 at Petapixel (Click here). And there is a first X100 review at Photographyblog (Click here).
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KI
2 years ago |It’s the retro design that’s so great. Along with very good image quality.
I’d very much like if Olympus made a digital OM-2-3-4. ISO dial at the top etc etc. No “buttons” … and not even a screen. Just exchange the film with a 35mm FF sensor and a memorycard slot.
Have you seen the viewfinder on the OM-x series?
Duarte Bruno
2 years ago |This has nothing to do with the camera’ success!
) this has to do with supply and demand!
Unfortunately (for the Japanese people
Due to the latest events I’m wondering myself why should I wait for the E-P3 (which will probably be as late as another 6 months) instead of making the logic decision which is to buy the GH2 now before the shortages happen.
fta
2 years ago |Exactly!!!
This is NOT REAL success!
Ulli
2 years ago |great design/concept and its availability is zero….so i can understand the auction price goin up & up all the time.
reverse stream swimmer
2 years ago |1. It’s a well designed camera with a good optical viewfinder, silent shutter, and dedicated controls.
2. The implication is, that Canon & Nikon & Pentax, very seriously needs to think about entering the ILC arena or not.
3. The advantage with the fixed lens is a good optical viewfinder, and a silent shutter. The shutter implementation of the current ILC, are one of the weakest point with Lumix G & PEN cameras, they are far from silent.
With a larger sensor, high pixel count, cropping the final image and maintaining the image quality is possible. Adapters for wideangle, macro, and tele could counter for the drawback of a fixed lens.
Interesting times ahead. It seems Fujifilm has a winner with the X100.
Ganec
2 years ago |agree with 2)
DSLR users, which desperadely want/need something smaller, but from principle refuses to use Olympus or Panasonic
oscarito
2 years ago |answer is easy : it goes back to essence of photography
- solid design that says ” hey I’m a real camera, not a cheapo plastic black box you’ll throw away when the new version is released in about 4 months”
- a real good fast lens
- inobstrusive controls with buttons and dials for the 4 real essential controls : diaphragm, shutter speed, iso and wb
- a real proper optical viewfinder, that even 50$ cameras used to have in film days !!!
- a great image quality, throughout all iso range
the real question is, why in the digital age, did it take so long to one of big camera manufacturer to release such a camera ??
Luke
2 years ago |+1
Vlad
2 years ago |+1
Chris H.
2 years ago |+100.
Seriously I’ve been waiting for an optical viewfinder on compact digitals for an eternity (and I’m not talking about those pinky fingernail sized ones from the old Canon Elph/G series 5 years ago.
That’s one of the reasons I’m still using a 6MP Digital Rangefinder like the Epson RD-1 which still costs over $1300 in the used market.
The X100 is what street daily photographers was looking for. People who mention only IQ/Silent Shutter doesn’t realize the real necessity for a LARGE optical viewfinder in their shooting need.
Tobias W.
2 years ago |It boils down to designing a great photographic tool.
For street photography, this camera will become the holy grail once it’s available in stores.
For Fuji, this is a chance to position themselves closer to brands like Leica and other long gone names producing classic cameras. Once Fuji has established a different and higher profile brand awareness, they can sell even more high end niche cameras (if the quality is OK).
Olympus needs to take a close look at what happened here and use that knowledge for the E-P3 which does not have to solve the viewfinder problem but should be about the usability in terms of external controls (not menu driven, no touch screen) and the speed of the autofocus. If they can improve on these areas, I will buy a PEN over the X-100 any day.
Not 100% related to the above: What I really like about the X100 is that its shutter release button is compatible with the cable release I use on my legacy manual focus Minolta bodies. It would be nice (though not necessary) if the new PEN had this feature as well.
Eric
2 years ago |As Steve Jobs has pointed out, listening to your customers is not the best way to design a product because most of the time the customer doesn’t know what they want or need. However, that only works if you have very creative and competent management. Quite frankly none of the main Japanese camera companies have shown to be very creative unless you count changing the color of a standard DSLR as creative.
So if Panasonic or Olympus would have even paid the slightest bit of attention to forums and blogs the last few years they’d have known there are tons of photographers eagerly awaiting a camera like the X100. Some of us are buying the X100 now; others like me are still holding out hope that some company will come to their senses and give us an interchangeable lens version.
Danillo
2 years ago |double post.
Danillo
2 years ago |So to recap: Steve Jobs pointed out that you shouldn’t necessarily listen to your customers.
So, if Panasonic and Olympus had only listened to their customers…
I sort of see what your getting at, but your two points directly contradict one another.
The fact that an eBay auction is going for a lot means nearly nothing except that this is new and there’s very low supply. Clearly this camera appeals to some people for very specific reasons, and it only takes two bidders to value it at a certain level to make the auction price go through the roof. None of that means the camera will be a success in the marketplace. Maybe it will, I have no idea, but this auction tells us zero about whether it will be successful or not.
Personally, I don’t see what all the fuss is about, but then again I don’t do the sort of photography to which this is best suited. But all credit to Fuji for trying something different.
Eric
2 years ago |The point was with competent and creative management Apple’s way of doing things works; the problem is if you don’t have that then you end up producing a lot of boring me too designs simply because someone else had success with them. How else do you explain why Panasonic designed the G1/G2/GH1/GH2 like they did? Mirroless cameras don’t need to look like DSLR’s. I’d get a DSLR if I wanted that form factor. They were simply too scared to break out of the “canon rebel” mold. So seeing as how Panasonic is in no way Apple, I think they’d be better off listening to their potential customers.
However, on the bright side, now that Fuji has shown that a rangefiner-like design works perhaps Sony/Oly/Panasonic will copy it. Innovation at it’s finest
Ross
2 years ago |Maybe an innovative design would be to have a L & R hand version with the view finder on the left corner where a right handed person would want it & make a left handed version (with viewer on the right & shutter button on the left) & that might see some interest. Well, it’s just an idea. :
PS I love the ability to edit now. Thanks Admin.
Miroslav
2 years ago |Two things make it so popular and sold out at the moment:
1. The only similar camera is a Leica X1 which costs two times more and has less features ( no viewfider, no video,… ). And many cannot afford any large sensor Leica. The situation reminds me of Harley-Davidson lookalike motorcycles. Until you get close, you don’t know it’s not a real Harley
. So Fuji X100 almost has the complete market for itself. Or you could say that Fuji has created a market for themselves.
2. The halt in production makes it hard to find so prices go up. If Fuji steps up production when they restart it, these auctions will vanish instantly.
Similar thing happened with F0.95 c-mount lenses, Schneider and Angenieux for example. They were selling for more than 1000 USD, there was nothing similar, but when ( superior ) Nokton 25mm F0.95 came out, prices returned to normal levels.
What could Olympus and Panasonic do? Create something like X100, of course. If they’re wise, they’ll only put a viewfinder on some of their rangefinder shaped m4/3 bodies and make a more retro look. Price it lower than Fuji, and X100′s in the past. Olympus is the prime candidate for such a thing, Panasonic hasn’t made retro looking m4/3 yet. O wouldn’t buy such a thing, I don’t like X100, but there are obviously people who would.
And if they don’t do it you know who will – Sony. Maybe they resurrect Minolta name just to differentiate from the NEXes.
Andreas Aronsson
2 years ago |As a GF1 user what I miss the most, which I didn’t expect myself to miss, is the optical viewfinder. The hybrid viewfinder seems sooooo awesome… as well as all the physical controls. I have not planned on buying one but I sure drool.
Primer
2 years ago |I think x100′s sensor is above average in APSC world, which means 2 stops better than Pany’s Live mos at the moment.
M4/3 NEED to introduce a new better sensor! It has been about 3 years with the same senser. Back to 2008 it was comparable to APSC, but now the sensor is clearly inferior to mainstream APSC, no need to mention d7000, k-5′s new much better sensor.
I still believe m4/3 is a good concept. I am desperate to see a new improved sensor in new m4/3 pro model.
Eric
2 years ago |The sensor in the GH2 is quite good, far better than what I’ve seen out of that same old 12mp sensor most all the other cameras are using. I imagine the IQ from the GH2 would be enough to satisfy most; the only problem is you have you buy a $1000 m4/3′s camera to get it. I can get the same or better IQ from a $600 camera like the Pentax K-r. Panasonic and Olympus really need a better sensor ASAP for photography. I won’t be replacing my G1 with a new body until they do. The GH2 is a fine camera, but I’m not going to buy something so clearly aimed at people interested in video.
sneye
2 years ago |The interest in X100 is beyond rational. The people who are willing to pay those prices most probably never used a film camera let alone a rangefinder. They are inlove with an idea, not with an industrial product. It’s a nostalgia to somebody else’s memories.
I’m afraid Panasonic could not make a camera with the same sort of sex appeal. Such excitement is reserved to old brands. Olympus tried to stir similar emotions with the E-P1 in June 2009 and did quite well for a while. The “secret” is a retro, extravagant design and clever marketing which plays on emotions. A few ideas:
http://www.alpareflex.com/Cameras/Images/Alpa9d.jpg
http://vieilalbum.com/images/om1.JPG
http://collectiblend.com/Cameras/images/Zeiss-Ikon-Contax-IIIa.jpg
SPONGEZILLA
2 years ago |I think it’s pretty clear… the industrial design is what is luring people in on this. A lot of people, including myself, yearn for the tactile feel of a classic rangefinder or 35mm camera, but would love to see it wrapped up in a more modern digital take. The X100 provides a lot of that.
Now, I’m going to contrast with reverse stream winner’s take however. The glaring issues for me with the X100 is that I don’t want a fixed lens. Personally, with Olympus offering up translucent mirror tech, I’d be interested to see if they could do a compact mirror arrangement for through the lens viewing on their MFT lensed cameras. To me, if they could offer the right balance in size (MFT is there) with a nice metal rangefinder body that is more in-step with the X100, with a full array of manual controls more akin to the higher prosumer D-SLR range (D7000, 60D/7D, K-5, etc.), I think they’d have a huge hit on their hands.
Yet… it’ll probably be too late for me when it happens as I’ve pretty much decided to opt for the K-5 (crafted well even if it’s a lot less retro) and jump ship. I’ve been a longtime Panasonic fan since purchasing my DMC-FZ10K ultrazoom eons ago as I loved the feel and build quality of that camera, even if focusing speed (slow, remedied later in future models) and light-sensing performance (tends to produce a lot of washed-out images, lighting isn’t consistent unless you use manual mode… which, while workable… is a bit cumbersome in layout) wasn’t there… it was enjoyable to hold. That’s a part of photography that can not be underestimated.
The latter model Panny’s… while still well-built, aren’t quite as alluring to me. The Oly Pen’s are kinda toyish (nice, but… not in that Leica-esque sort of way), IMHO, compared to the timeless look of the older Panasonic L1 Four Thirds camera. If Panny could get an L1-styled/crafted camera in MFT with the manual controls mentioned above (i.e. like a smaller K-5 using MFT) with more of the craft of what Fuji has with the X100… they’d have a ton of switchers IMHO. I would’ve been on that list. The GF1/GF2 were close… but I don’t really care about the touch screen whizbang stuff.
Leendert
2 years ago |What they can learn is: MARKETING!
Ranger 9
2 years ago |You ask: “What I am questioning now is WHY a camera can become that popular… what Olympus and Panasonic should learn from that X100…”
But you’re conflating “popularity” (lots of people want it) with “intensity” (a few people want it a lot.)
Basically the eBay listings amount to a handful of cameras being sold at ridiculously inflated prices. That’s a good business model for the occasional eBay seller (or for Leica) but it wouldn’t work for Olympus or Panasonic, which need to sell cameras in large volumes over an extended time period.
Most of the people who might consider buying an X100 are practical enough to realize that it’s not worth paying double the retail price for one (some of us wonder if it’s worth the retail price given its limited versatility.) So these prices are not sustainable beyond the tiny number of people who are vain enough to want the newest toys first, and rich enough to be able to indulge their vanity.
Primer
2 years ago |IMHO a m4/3 version of Panasonic L1 with an improved sensor will sell like hot cakes.
Moderntimes99
2 years ago |For me it is the best overall image quality (including high-ISO performance)from a camera that I can squeeze into my coat pocket and that I can almost afford, i.e. Leica M9 is already out of the question.
It is not perfect.
Image quality does not seem as good as a full frame-DSLR, but seems to match the previous generation of DX cameras, such as the Nikon D90. And that is a clear step above, for example, a Panasonic GF1.
It does not have the sharpest lens around. Auto focus does not seem extremely fast and it is a bit sad about the the 0.8m near limit without macro mode. The dynamic range seems limited, especially at low-ISO.
But, even with these shortcomings, there really is no other camera to match the X100 at its (ordinary) price point right now.
Until Panasonic brings out a GF3 with the GH2 sensor…
microbi
2 years ago |optical viewfinder!
the olysonic stuff isnt what im waiting for.
i need the optical viwfinder! why?
its the handling during shooting – its more stable.
and the electronic viewfinder for olysonic blocked the flashshoe for other accessories.
and the x100 looks like my favourite camera from the analog years: konica hexar!
but the handling and usability of a “rangefinder” camera like this is not for everyone, but i like it!
G_C
2 years ago |Marketing!
if the Ipad 2 suddenly became as rare as hens teeth it’ll be extraordinarily expensive.
also people will pay good money for what they THINK they want. im guessing most of these bidders haven’t even handled the camera, and yet…
marketing is one thing… but it helps to have a nice camera.
to me the size, retro look, aperture ring on the lens, viewfinder and shutter dial all come together into a very nice package.
name
2 years ago |The uglyest camera ever.
Duarte Bruno
2 years ago |Sure, sure,
and we all know that ugly cameras take ugly pictures.
IIRC there is also a scientifically proven connection from ugly pictures to ugly users.
The stuff people come up with is unbelievable. :O
Dummy00001
2 years ago |> What I am questioning now is WHY a camera can become that popular.
IMO: Size + great IQ + OVF. And in that order.
Comparing to m43:
Size – got right from day one.
IQ – self explanatory.
OVF – seems to be impossible at the moment.
There are small APS-C cameras, but there are literally no pancake primes. OVF is the cherry topping IMO – to make everybody feel comfortable. (For example, I personally do not like EVFs. They are not as fast and color reproduction is unrealistic. Well, it’s like video signal…)
Most people choose m43 for size and lament it for the poor DR (though still willing to sacrifice the IQ for the size/weight advantage). Right now IQ is the weakest point.
Trevor
2 years ago |What Olympus and Panny need to learn is that producing one product that is REALLY good at a certain task is better than producing lots of products that are mediocre at accomplishing a variety of tasks.
The X100 fills a particular role — great street/journalist camera. It’ll never be great for landscapes, sports, wildlife, studio work, etc. But people who need/want a camera like the X100 will pay a premium and LOVE it. No DSLR is that small, and even a Sony NEX with a 35 f/2 (if that existed) wouldn’t have an optical viewfinder (or be as retro cool).
Compare that to all of m4/3. There are what, 7 bodies now? What do they do REALLY well? Some are OK for video. Some are OK for personal pictures and landscapes. They might not be bad to have on a vacation. But there is nothing I can think of that m4/3 does hands down better than everyone else. Nothing sets them apart as “gotta have it.”
Oly and Panny need to decide — is m4/3 point and shoot with better IQ, DSLR with no OVF, or is it something else entirely? Is it for consumers, niche enthusiasts, or professionals? Whatever the answer is, make it the absolute best at that and screw the rest.
Steve H
2 years ago |GH2 is the best video DSLR and clearly has the “gotta have it” thing going on. But I agree with your point, in general.
mahler
2 years ago |I think you overrate the X100 completely. There is nothing, where it has any advantage over current m4/3 cameras. It doesn’t do anything better. The GH2 has better and more functional controls.
Admin: I have no clue, why you focus so much attention on this niche camera, as this blog is dedicated to 4/3 and m4/3 *system* cameras. The X100 is not even a system camera.
In my opinion, Olympus and Panasonic have nothing to copy from the X100.
A GH2 with the 1.7/20mm is probably a better street camera than the X100. It’s seamless integration of stills and video, sets it really apart, and exploits the advantages of m4/3 and for what it is made for. Even the PENs are more versatile than the X100 and certainly a better choice.
mahler
2 years ago |Hit the wrong reply link – probably. My previous post was a reply to Trevor.
alexander
2 years ago |if you see the fuji – you love it! basta! this is waht we want from Olympus!!! but with changebale lenses .
zorg
2 years ago |Mahler, I’m mildly curious. Do you (A) not notice the amount of interest others show about this camera on this forum or do you (B) just not care what anyone else wants. Should the moderator just cater to you? For that matter, do you do anything that should make the moderator cater to your whims?
If you stop reading because you are incensed that it covers a camera you don’t want to hear about (except when you write 4 paragraph comments about it!lol!) I promise to click twice as often from two different computers on two different networks to make up for the lost page views. So feel free to go away!
mahler
2 years ago |Well, Admin asked what the X100 has, that Olympus and Panasonic doesn’t and should have? I gave the answer: NOTHING. Shouldn’t be a problems for you.
RW
2 years ago |mahler says: “In my opinion, Olympus and Panasonic have nothing to copy from the X100.”
…and the hybrid OVF/EVF means *nothing* to you?? In my opinion, the biggest single downside of the small m43 cameras (Pen, GFx) is the lack of a proper viewfinder – much less a hybrid OVF/EVF.
kesztió
2 years ago |Hybrid OVF is extremely complicated to implement on vario lenses (especially for interchangeable ones), its accuacy is low even for built-in prime lenses (due to parallaxis error) and has no DOF preview at all.
Are these the huge advantages you speak about?!
mpgxsvcd
2 years ago |If you take everyone who grew up shooting with Film cameras out of the equation then they wouldn’t sell a single one of these. It is simply that some people have experienced the benefits of this style of camera before. Those who haven’t won’t be able to understand why a good viewfinder is so important.
Basically, I have never shot with a film camera before. I didn’t get into it until I got my first digital camera. I am used to using the LCD, controlling the camera through touch screen menus, using a zoom lens, and shooting high quality video. This camera looks limited to me. However, it is a dream come true for anyone who was born long before the first computer was ever dreamed up.
This camera will sell because there are still people around who want this type of camera. In 30-40 years that population will be reduced greatly and I doubt this camera will do as well then.
The Other Chris
2 years ago |Yes, but you know what? Those people who grew up on film cameras are at an age where they can splurge on a camera with a retro feel. In 30-40 years it’ll be irrelevant, but for now it’s a cash cow that targets the demographic with the most disposable income.
That income can be used for R&D to develop new products. Overall, it was a great move by Fuji.
Aegis
2 years ago |just by looking at the auction, olympus and panasonic probably learned that Fuji is not charging enough.
Chris
2 years ago |A mirror-less body with the control and viewfinder of the X100 would be a huge winner. It’s probably not really possible given the specifications, though. The shutter dial would be easy enough, but a ring aperture dial is precluded by the mount. If you could get around that problem, and have a great viewfinder (hybrid optical is also out of the picture), it would sell like hotcakes.
Think E-P2 styling with much better ergonomics.
kesztió
2 years ago |SNOBBERY.
This is the only reason.
mahler
2 years ago |+100
RW
2 years ago |Good God, man. Let’s not assume that everybody that doesn’t agree with your priorities is a *snob*. I have a hard time with close distance vision (like you need to gawk at an LCD) – and the viewfinder in the X100 might make this whole format viable. That doesn’t make me a snob.
Miklos Rabi
2 years ago |Marketing hype. That’s it.
frank
2 years ago |The X100 seems like a really nice camera, but to me a panasonic GF1 with 20/1.7 and the electronic viewfinder is a finer camera. So that’s the one I have.
CallaWolf
2 years ago |KESZTIO got it 100% correct – SNOBBERY
You know how the saying goes “A fool and his $2,292.31 are easily parted”
Drew
2 years ago |Simple: It looks like a Leica. There are millions of us who would like to own a Leica, but can’t afford one. If Olympus would just make a rangefinder version of their m43 cameras, with interchangeable lenses, they would have a runaway hit on their hands. Lots of us can get that. I hope the camera makers will eventually get it too.
Duarte Bruno
2 years ago |It’s not that simple, it’s a combination really a combination of design, unique features and most probable shortage (supply vs demand).
Anyone that was just wanting a Leica would settle the issue with the Leica X1 which sells for 2000$. The only palpable difference is a slightly slower lens and no HVF.
alee
2 years ago |The sensor seems pretty special to me. It’s not about snobbery, or marketing…
The formula for success is clean high ISO, fast lens, compact body.
The D700/D3s redefined what is possible with high ISO images. From that point on, every camera manufacturer has been chasing the holy grail… a mirrorless D700/D3s in a compact body.
We’re not talking about Olympus compacts that claim ISO 6400 but can only competently do ISO 400. Nor are we talking about micro 4/3 that can only reasonably put out about ISO 1600 before the images break down.
I love my D3 and love my Fuji F31fd because they did legitimately well in low light. The X100 is the first compact that attempts to play in this space.
Gato
2 years ago |It really looks cool — at least to an old Leica user — but much prefer the feel and function of modern ergonomic designs. If I did street photography I’d be interested, but not sure it would be my first choice even then.
As to the auctions, I don’t get that at all. With production apparently shut down I can understand some price premium, but not this.
Gato
Deckard
2 years ago |This is just as simple as supply and demand… The exceptionally low supply meet a demand…
aljudy
2 years ago |Not only is the bidding insanely high for this camera, it has a scratch on the screen and near the viewfinder! Something about this camera is totally not understandable to me. I am 67 and used many excellent film cameras and there is no way I’d buy this camera for even $500… Al
spong
2 years ago |Could be just a few very keen and wealthy individuals, but I suspect that the story below just might have something to do with it. Bidders may be gambling on this camera being a very limited edition. Personally, I think it’s silly to pay so much for this camera, however nice it is.
http://www.43rumors.com/fuji-x100-on-ebay-but-x100-factory-has-been-damaged-and-production-stopped/
James
2 years ago |I don’t believe it’s snobbery, the FujiFilm label will get less oohs and aahhs than the lumix-in-drag that is the Leica compact. I could accept the snobbery aspect of its rarity value .. at least in the short term but then that’s for people with money to burn
As an old git who remembers film cameras I can say the following;
APS-C sensor in such a compact form promises better results than M4/3. AFAIK there isn’t another camera this size with such a big sensor. Anyone who has used a high MPix small sensor camera at set over 200ASA (yes panny, I’m looking at you) will know the restrictions of small sensor cameras
The built in hybrid VF idea is a winner. It scotches the “live ccd VFs aren’t as good” brigade whilst providing the data you want/need. it also allows the VF to be fitted to a body size that M4/3 cameras can’t match from what I can tell (although I’ve not actually held the X100 yet but appearances are it is similar size to the pen cameras rather than the built in VF Panny ones) The downside (and it’s a big one) is the inflexibility of the fixed lens. if FF can find a way around this (rumour has it there’s an interchangable camera in the pipeline) then that would be a significant advantage. not sure how they’ll mount the VF in that case though.
Next up; just look at it. No, go on, look. Tell me it’s anything less than bloody gorgeous. The Pens are certainly good looking and the panny M4/3s offerings are alright too, but this seems to turn the style up to 11. Nostalgia maybe part of the appeal but certainly that isn’t all.
I think anyone who says using the LCD behind the camera is good enough hasn’t fully experienced the additional security and camera steadiness that comes from the upclose way you hold a camera when using a viewfinder. built in optical stabilisation systems probably help the notion that you don’t need to hold the camera close anymore, certainly I find myself staring at the way some people hold cameras these days. On the flip side of that I am constantly amazed at the shutter speeds that I can get useful pictures out of compared to film and dead lenses but holding the camera steady is still the way to take a shot. Also, I enjoy the privacy of using a VF to frame a picture, but I fully accept that that is a personal preference.
I’m looking ofr my next camera atm and am torn between this and the E-P2 + VF-2. In the end I’ll probably go for the PEN because of added lens flexibility and the availability of scuba housings but blimey I rekon anyone who wonders why this camera is desirable is missing a small part of their soul.
CRB
2 years ago |Fujis sensor kicks panasonic sensors as#@%s….the viewfinder seems to be good…new tech plus excellent IQ…whats not to like? panasonic already makes excellent lenses, so all they need is a better sensor. And a great body….my G1 (former) felt not that great built….
reverse stream swimmer
2 years ago |Re: Fujis sensor kicks panasonic sensors
Maybe so, but it’s not a big deal – the Panasonic still wins.
With an interchangeable lens camera, the possibility to actually put on when needed a brighter lens, more than compensates for the -2/3 EV difference between APS-C and MFT sensors.
The main drawback is the DOF control parameter, for those photographers really need that. Here the 135 format is a better choice anyway.
CRB
2 years ago |The difference is much more than that. Open pans shadows and you will see..APS-C (new ones) sensors are much much better than m4/3. And once you preserve the highlights with m4/3, your shadows fall apart (pixels) once you use PP to light it…
SLRist
2 years ago |The X100′s main advantage over 4/3 is it’s far superior high ISO performance. Simple as that. It’s as good in low light as a D7000 but it fits in your coat pocket. Yeah, it looks like a Leica, but then it looks like a lot of old Fuji rangefinders too. That’s not staying anything. I was in the market for a GF1/2, but was willing to trade changeable lenses for low light performance and a built in viewfinder.
GF2 is good for what – ISO800 – ISO1600 at a push…
X100 is good to ISO6400 and usable at ISO12800.
That makes it unparalleled amongst semi-compact cameras. Even the M9 can’t compete.
Suck it down, Panasonic.
Brian
2 years ago |It’s not hard to understand if one is into the genre of street photography. and it’s a fraction of the price of an M9 plus a 35-cron.
Tony
2 years ago |And the DR is much better than Pany’s.
I am attemped!
Mark Sperry
2 years ago |It’s not snobbery or marketing at all.
It’s GOOD DESIGN. Just like Apple products, it’s well designed. Photographers, or enthusiasts who appreciate a well laid out control scheme, view finder, and good lens will pay a premium for the user experience.
Micro 4/3rds has yet to produce a compelling camera for serious photography. Not to say they can’t be used to take good pictures, but they require an add on just for a view finder. The GF2 was a step BACKWARDS. It’s more like a point and shoot. Pros don’t want touch screens and scene modes. Ultimate versatility doesn’t always equal the best camera.
Plus it’s not that expensive if you consider the cost of the competition, Leica. Even a comparible Nikon D90 was over a grand new so I don’t know what the big deal is about the price…
gravityloss
2 years ago |Synergistic design: its features make sense as a whole.
People have been talking about digital rangefinders for ages but the camera companies have been interested more in pointless megapixels and zoom factors.
Also it’s hip in a pretentious expensive sort of way of course.
Retro is kinda nice, but who could break the square film box with a lens in the middle design? Modern design that didn’t look ugly AND worked.
I have a GF1 and am also slightly disappointed with the big shutter clank, which shouldn’t be an issue with the X100…
Al Jimenez
2 years ago |I have a guess about who is bidding: Panasonic and Leica so they can take it apart… Al
iluvhatemail
2 years ago |poor mans leica, unfortunately it doesnt even deserve that title. I’ve seen the sample shots and any camera can boost the saturation, the range of definition is still weak. I have a feeling that all the fuji buyers will have remorse once oly & panasonic release their versions.
alexander
2 years ago |..if they ever will…in 20xx.. ;-/
The Other Chris
2 years ago |Exactly. It takes years to develop a product like this.
G_C
2 years ago |if you are calling the x100 a poor mans leica i suggest you pick up an X1 and try it out…
you will be severely disappointed!
unless you mean poor man’s leica in terms of price alone, then yes you are correct.
but the X1 is a joke. the lcd screen is worse than most compacts, it’s VERY slow to use and the image quality is average at best. the lens is good but not super amazing… not for something at that price.
then the x100 comes along with a viewfinder, 1 stop faster lens, aperture ring on the lens, movie mode and about HALF the price!!!
Ken Aisin
2 years ago |I’m in if m4/3 has:
- built-in optical viewfinder or hybrid viewfinder.
- more fast primes, more fast primes, more fast primes!!!!
marauder3c
2 years ago |A high ebay price is no indication of the popularity. You only need two people willing to pay through the nose to get the first one.
Rob
2 years ago |Simple, people want a cheap Leica. If this thing had interchangeable lenses it would be the best selling camera of the year.
Dummy00001
2 years ago |This is probably 3300003534363th comment I’m reading which says “X100 is a poor man’s Leica.”
How many camera owners do you think even know about existence of Leica and what the name actually is??
Very small percentage.
Most camera owners now became camera owners solely thanks to the digital revolution – and Leica wasn’t part of it.
Carlo Parducho
2 years ago |Neck candy
Camera porn
Camera bling
bob
2 years ago |Camera porn and bling to you, real camera for photographers who use our cameras.
Marc Desimpelaere
2 years ago |When the first PEN arrived, I was really, really interested, but the lack of a real viewfinder and the lack of a good and fast pancake prie was a bummer. IQ was a little better than my E-30, but even after the Panny 20mm f/1,8 comming available, I felt the whole m4/3′s to be a joke. Except for a few, lenses were not more compact than the equivalent lenses on a DSLR. Then came more PEN’s all lacking the same: a good and bright viewfinder that makes photography a joy. The add on EVF’s are a pain, incredibly expensive and brakes the streamlining of the camera. And, even after three years of m4/3′s there still isn’t a camera that makes me warm, and still no lenses worth to be wiling…
Then comes the Fuj that is really produced by and for photographers with an excellent viewfinder, excellent lens and that looks incredibly nice to booth. Maitana must be turning in his grave: the X-100 would be the camera he would have invisioned…
So, no, it doesn’t amaze me the popularity of the X-100.
no.thanks.
2 years ago |love how the haters are bitching about the retro design.
at the end of the day its about CONTROL CONTROL CONTROL.
there are a ton of people who buy expensive cameras, and never really push them into new territory (same folks who always shoot in auto-mode. there are also a ton of people that really know how to use a camera and that is why this is exciting.
Lets also revisit the Canon S90/S95, when that first dropped people were crazy for it because it had a programmable CONTROL ring. People were also into the prosumer compacts (g10-11-12, lx3-4-5-etc) because they also offered high levels of CONTROL.
you do know that there is already a leica knock off on the market right? its the epson RD series. get a clue.
Thomas
2 years ago |Popularity seems to be really falling off on a couple of photo forums. All sorts of reasons are given for the waning enthusiasm. People are fickle.
bob
2 years ago |Panasonic (and Leica) both made the X100 back in 2005–it was called the DMC-L1/Digilux 3, and before that, the DMC-LC1/Digilux 2.
Marc Desimpelaere
2 years ago |The X-100 uses a sensor 4 times the size of the of the DMC-L1/Digilux2… That is a HUGE difference!
MP Burke
2 years ago |Why are people calling the X100 a rangefinder camera? When I look in the specifications I see that it is described as a camera with an optical viewfinder and contrast AF, no rangefinder at all. I would have thought a camera with such a hybrid viewfinder, combined with coupled rangefinder, would be an interesting alternative to the Leica if it could accept M-mount lenses. I see the X100 as a (stylish pseudo-rangefinder) novelty that is attracting a lot of interest at the moment, but I wouldn’t take it seriously unless it had interchangable lenses. The comparison of the X100 with the Leica M9 (which can accept lenses from 15-135mm) seems rather fanciful.
I’m sure Panasonic and Olympus are far more interested in the sales success of the Sony NEX, which can can be seen as the antithesis of the X100. The NEX shows that many people have never used a viewfinder and don’t want one. For Olympus and Panasonic the challenge should be to provide the best possible sensor in the smallest possible body, and then produce a GF2 sized camera with a good built in EVF. Small size is the best unique selling point for M43.
MP Burke
2 years ago |Having seen references to a “digital rangefinder” I had started to think the X100 actually had a rangefinder in it, until I checked the description on DP review. Perhaps when people refer to “digital rangefinder” they are referring to something which looks like a Leica, rather than a camera which has a coupled rangefinder in it. I don’t see what would be accomplished by having an optical viewfinder in an M43 camera, as a single viewfinder would surely not be able to cover the wide range of focal lengths available. In my view the way forward should be to improve the quality of the built in EVFs.
JJ Semple
2 years ago |People want to compose via something besides an LCD, which is awkward in many respects. Nothing beats putting a VF up to the eye. So, nice rangefinder design = interest. For some reason, designers and manufacturers don’t get this.
X-100 also shows how design conscious buyers are. Olympus and Panasonic have all the components, plus the beginning of a decent family of lenses. Now all they have to create is a digital rangefinder with interchangeable lenses and a little snob appeal.
Thomas
2 years ago |Yes, yes, yes. Built in EVF for MFT!
chon
2 years ago |Major external forces created the rarity that drive the price at the moment, not the camera itself.
kww
2 years ago |simple: people want a camera that looks like a camera. not the neutered japanese electronic dross that gets put upon us.
Elvis
2 years ago |Surely it would be a great machine, but pls dun forget the problem of supply. Under the current situation of Japan, no supply cause the price increasing.
RW
2 years ago |At the end of the day, the people that are dissing the x100 are missing the point.
Pros:
1. Its small – I think everybody interested in m43 can agree that is desirable.
2. It has a *proper* viewfinder. This is the biggest downside of the current m43 crop. They either have an adequate EVF or really nothing at all. The hybrid OVF/EVF seems to be a great innovation.
3. Fuji has traditionally made really nice cameras. Why should this one be any different?
Cons:
1. It doesn’t have interchangeable lenses. Fair enough. A lot of street photographers only carry one prime. Don’t buy it is this doesn’t work for you. If it had interchangeable lenses, it might be the swan song for Oly/Panny in this format – and don’t think that they don’t know that.
2. Its pricy. Many people before me have made the X100′s price point is in the same ballpark as an EP-2, Panny 20mm, and external viewfinder combo – but in a package that is much more tightly integrated. Ok – so the EP-2 combo offers more expansion room if you want to change lenses – but you know, I think that a lot of people that want a high IQ pocket camera don’t really want to change lenses. I think that a lot of photo enthusiasts want a pocket camera to *supplement* their pro/semi pro rig – not to replace it.
’nuff said
Thomas
2 years ago |I have a feeling the Fuji is dead. They introduced the camera too early trying to get a jump on competition that was not even there. They hyped the camera for too long, and then couldn’t deliver in a timely manner. Now I doubt they can recover from the disaster(s) that’s come upon them.
People are already losing interest.
Michal
2 years ago |In this world full of fakes and cheap plastic this camera looks REAL ! This is the reason.
calxn
2 years ago |m43 gadget geeks would not understand. Photographers, on the other hand, judge a camera not based on a single technical detail (the “innovation” of smaller size that droids tout every day) but the whole of the camera and how it lets them take photos. It has to feel good in the hand. The controls on the camera must not compromise. The ergonomics must fit. The features must be there and ready (like a Nikon). That’s why all the pros are using Canikon DSLRs even though there are smaller cameras. m43 – smaller, lighter, lots of art filters. Yes, but too full of compromises.
From everything I’ve read, the X100 is a no compromise camera. It’s not just IQ. It feels right, has the right features, etc. Look at all the plastic fantastic that Oly keeps putting out with no viewfinder or the dumbing down of Pana’s GF line. The X100 appears to be a serious camera. Let me list the features that some people are craving in this X100.
1) Leaf shutter lens
2) quiet shutter
3) built-in viewfinder with OVF and EVF
4) Full manual controls and aperture ring on lens
5) built-in ND filters (gadget geeks won’t understand this)
6) Metal! It feels good in your hands. The heft and strength.
7) Viewfinder on the edge of camera. This is a biggie and the gadget geeks won’t understand, and I’m not going to elaborate in fear of the geeks rushing to buy a serious camera like the X100. They’re already in short supply!
8. It’s not a toy full of compromises like the EP/EPL/GF/G series of cameras.
Most photographers have two hands. The controls on the X100 seem to cater to two hand controls, much like Nikons and Leicas. Two hand controls mean never having to take your eyes off the viewfinder and miss the moment just to change a setting on the camera. It’s the reason I love and own Nikons, crave Leicas, and will get my hands on this Fuji. You guys can have your touch screens and menu systems. I’d rather have physical controls for everything. The X100 appears to be the best street camera on the market for now, even more so than the M9 due to its AF. Street means fast to shoot and unobtrusive. None of the m43 camera fits these criteria like the X100 or the Leicas.
calxn
2 years ago |Also, it just looks plain awesome. The m43 cameras look like beefed up p&s or toys.
SLRist
2 years ago |“I think you overrate the X100 completely. There is nothing, where it has any advantage over current m4/3 cameras. It doesn’t do anything better. The GH2 has better and more functional controls.”
There speaks a M4/3 fanboy who can’t see outside his own narrow requirements. M4/3 is a jack-of-all-trades technology. OK at lots of things but great at nothing. M4/3 sensor technology is going nowhere fast. The X100 is a truly pocketable low light demon with a fantastic viewfinder and silent shutter, perfectly crafted for the street shooter. If you can’t see it’s value then you obviously aren’t in its target demographic – don’t dis it, stick with your lukewarm compromise-o-cam and be happy. There are plenty of us who are prepared to pay for a specialist camera so we don’t just have to ‘make do’.
Thomas
2 years ago |Nah, I hate the way the X100 looks. Cheap looking Leica wannabe. Retro, yuck.
JesperMP
2 years ago |” it has not a particularly amazing sensor.”
Thats a snooty remark if I may say so. A bit of jealousy from 43rumors maybe ?
Everything seems to confirm that the X100′s sensor easily beats EPL2 and GF2. How it compares to GH2 is yet to be seen.
There are also lots of attempts to diss the X100 for its “retro” design, for being a “rangefinder”, “fashion statement design” etc.
I think that all this subjective negativity shows that haters have little objective negativity to say about the X100.
The Other Chris
2 years ago |Right. I’m wondering if all these naysayers had the same attitude about the E-P1.
Thomas
2 years ago |The EP-1 looked like a Pen. Not sure what this Fuji looks like. Well maybe that old funny smelling fixed lens Canon RF I bought for $40.
The Other Chris
2 years ago |The styling is similar, though: it’s a retro-inspired design. My guess is Fuji started development on this camera back when everyone was clamoring for the E-P1′s retro design, large sensor, 35mm equivalent lens, and capability of being the next great street camera. The only thing they don’t trump Olympus on is the interchangeable lens.
JesperMP
2 years ago |As to what pana and oly can learn from X100.
Unfortunately they cannot copy two of the biggest advantages of X100.
Because of the interchangable lenses, the shutter must be a focal plane shutter. Central shutters is a theoretical possibility, but that would make the lenses bigger and more expensive.
And because of the interchangable lenses, an optical viewfinder will simply not be such a good match as it is on an X100. Even Leica M cameras have issues with its OVF for wides, teles and zooms.
What they CAN learn is that direct controls beats modal dials and menu-driven interfaces.
And pana can move the EVF to the side of the camera.
mahler
2 years ago |I think Panasonic’s designs, in particular the G/GH series, already beats the X100 with direct controls significantly. The EVF of the G/GH series is in the right position in my opinion, is larger and brighter than most DSLR finders. So, Olympus and Panasonic can rather learn what they should NOT do:
- retro design
- fixed lens
Esa Tuunanen
2 years ago |Do you fake OVF-forever guys smash your faces to brick wall until nose is flat or have had it surgically removed?
Proper SLR/DSLR style design definitely beats these small squarish retro boxes for location of controls and comfort of use but EVF near center of body design is lousy for comfortable viewing.
aljudy
2 years ago |Those in so much love with this Fuji must also want more company since you are here in a m43 rumors website and trying to convince the rest of us who love m43 to join you. I really don’t know why you are all here; the camera is in short supply so go join your other fanboys at a Fuji forum. There is no way I will ever buy this look-at-me-how-I-buy-expensive-limited-overpriced-camera. If you don’t see the value on m43, then go away.
MIchael Benedikt
2 years ago |The demand for the Fuji X100 only shows how badly many photographers want to feel like Henri Cartier Bresson.
print poster
2 years ago |retro always sells
mahler
2 years ago |To whom?
Retro is a niche design for a niche market. Companies should not rely on retro design and, instead, find there own distinct design language. To me, the X100 is only a rip-off something camera companies invented around the fifties.
microbi
2 years ago |(real) high speed flash sync!
Stu
2 years ago |Who says it’s a success? Unless you know the profit margin per camera and how many units they have sold and have been paid for you have no idea if it’s been a success or not yet. That fact a couple of cameras have sold for high prices on Ebay is totally meaningless if they are not making many in the first place. You have no idea of their manufacturing capacity for this camera. At the moment it would appear it is quite small hence the high prices on ebay. Increase manufacturing capacity and the prices on ebay will fall. Also at the moment Fuji have still got to get back all their development cost and manufacturing machinery cost before the camera starts to go into profit. Far to early to say if the camera is a success or not.
Thomas
2 years ago |Two things that i think would help MFT cameras (in the form of GF-1 and EP-2)
1. better high ISO performance – it’s not bad BTW
2. built in EVF
It looks like the Fuji will be in short supply. We know how that plays out.
I
2 years ago |I will say: hybrid viewfinder (especially the presence of the optical part of it), solidly built, and simple analog controls. As the sensor is not bad, that is just enough for success.
What should Olympus and Panasonic do:
Implement the hybrid viewfinder on the exchangeable lens cameras (even if it is not perfect: overlayed frames for wide and sdandard angles, switch to EVF for telephoto for instance)
Same or better built quality
Simple direct controls
And better m4/3 lenses and an improvement in noise performance if possible.
Joey
2 years ago |retro sells atm, fiat 500′s, minis, wayfarer sunglass, 60′s suit cuts, fuji have tapped into the zeitgeist, it looks like it has a fairly decent spec underneath as well, going to be a success. What m4/3 can learn, not much really, beyond build in evf for oly, and better styling from panna.
Thomas
2 years ago |The X100 is so 3 months ago. When Fuji first introduced it, guys on photo forums acted like this thing was the Second Coming. Now the same people seem to have total disinterest in the camera.
I’m really surprised that people here are so late to the party.