SUMMARY
The Epson R-D1, released in March 2004, is recognized as the first commercially produced digital rangefinder camera, preceding Leica's M8. Developed with Cosina, it utilized a modified Voigtländer R-2 Bessa body and a Leica M lens mount, featuring a 6.1MP Sony CCD sensor. The R-D1 was designed to emulate the feel of film photography, incorporating a rapid wind lever for shutter cocking and an analog indicator for shot count and settings. It also had a reversible 2-inch screen that could be folded inward to protect it, revealing an ISO reminder dial. Production continued until 2014, with later models featuring larger screens and updated firmware.
TAKEAWAYS
The Epson R-D1, launched in 2004, was the first digital rangefinder camera.
It was developed in partnership with Cosina and used a Leica M lens mount.
The camera mimicked film shooting with a wind lever and analog indicators.
Its screen could be reversed to protect it and reveal an ISO reminder dial.