Leica launches golden camera for China's 60th

So you have a spare US$30,000 lying around and you haven't any idea what to do with it. Here's a thought: Buy Leica’s new limited-edition, 24-carat gold-plated MP camera. 

Leica might be better known for its old school designs, but their new 24-carat camera is adding some bling to that image.

Only sold in China, these cameras have been designed to commemorate six decades since the founding of the People's Republic of China. Each of the 60 cameras in this limited production run is numbered from 1949 to 2009 and the words “Long Live the People’s Republic of China” (中华人民共和国万岁) are etched on the lens and body. Both the camera and lens are coated in 24-carat gold and the camera body is also covered by Leica Red Box Calf leather.

If there was ever a guaranteed placer for next year’s “China's top 10 most expensive items” list, this is it.

If you still want to show your patriotism but don’t want to break the bank, Leica is also bringing out limited edition M8.2 and D-Lux 4 models, minus the bling (check out our camera gift guide for various other options too).

You're not going to find limited edition, gold-plated cameras at your local electronics market. So find a Shanghai Leica dealer if you're interested.