Leica’s New Monopan 50 Film

credits: Leica

Leica has officially announced Monopan 50, its first-ever true 35mm film, and it's arriving just in time to celebrate 100 years since the original Leica I kickstarted the 35mm era. While people back then already called it “Leica film,” this is the first time the company has actually put its own name on a roll. Monopan 50 is a new black-and-white emulsion that’s built for detail, sharpness, and that classic film feel, with a modern Leica spin on it.

It’s a panchromatic ISO 50 film, which means it handles a wide range of light wavelengths, even pushing into near-infrared territory, making it a bit more versatile than an average slow-speed black-and-white stock. Leica says it’s sharp enough to resolve up to 280 line pairs per millimeter and was designed to deliver super fine grain and a wide tonal range.

It’s worth noting that Leica doesn’t specifically say they’re manufacturing the film themselves, which has sparked some speculation that this could be a rebadged version of something like Adox HR-50, a film that’s currently tricky to find. Either way, it’s made in Germany and targeted at shooters who appreciate both the look and the legacy of analog photography. Monopan 50 hits Leica stores and authorised retailers worldwide starting August 21 and will run you $10 a roll.

You can see full details and sample shots on Leica’s website here