Quest for the Digital Rangefinder, Part III

My quest may soon be over. And Fujifilm may be my next serious camera.

Of course by rangefinder I mean “rangefinder style” since the Leica M9 is the only true digital rangefinder, and this technology is somewhat misplaced in the digital domain.  Ever since the debut of the Finepix X100, it’s clear that Fujifilm gets the whole rangefinder thing. The X10 is only further proof, with all the look and feel of a rangefinder in a fixed-lens zoom. But next year something will happen that will seal the deal: Fujifilm’s interchangeable-lens hybrid viewfinder masterpiece. 

It was leaked a few days ago that the successor to Fujifilm’s successful X100 will have interchangeable lenses and an organic APS-C sensor which is claimed to have better performance than the typical full-frame sensor. And, if they keep the hybrid viewfinder, this will truly be the camera of choice for rangefinder aficionados next to the M9. 

Brace yourself: it’s probably not going to be cheap. In fact, I'’ve already committed myself to the X10 as a possible backup plan. That camera will easily quell my rangefinder desires, in a smaller, more convenient package, with all the focal lengths I’ll need with me at all times. 

But just imagine; this could be the new Contax. The ultimate photographer’s camera. The universal body.

If Fujifilm’s new mount is done right, adapters will undoubtedly be available to fit M-Mount lenses. But don’t count on it. If the X10’s proprietary 39.5mm filter threads are any indication, Fujifilm wants you to stay close to the family. Still, Fujifilm’s lenses will undoubtedly be up to the task. Again the X10 proves that with its best in class 28-112mm f/2-2.8 zoom.