Sony have finally updated their classic RX1R full-frame compact camera (10 years after their previous MK II version)
Sony have managed to make the camera even lighter than the previous version while pretty much maintaining the dimensions of the RX1R II.
This new camera was released with much secrecy, with most reviewers (including me) being kept in the dark about its release. When I published my RX1R II review earlier this year (10 years after it was first announced) I discussed the issues Sony would face if they used a Z-Series battery and IBIS (SteadyShot INSIDE) - basically the camera would end up being a similar size to the A7CR. Sony have resolved many of the size issues while improving battery life by using their W-Series battery.
Although the A7CR and compact prime would undeniably be a 'better fit' for most photographers there is now a high demand for premium fixed-lens compact cameras ...and this is about as premium as you can get with a price tag to match. Most photographers (except the die-hard Street photographers) will see this as a possible 2nd camera and not their primary camera.
I will be creating a preview video while I am traveling in Indonesia, and I have to admit to being slightly disappointed that I will not have this camera with me to shoot street photography and document festivals and rituals while I am traveling.
Note > there will be a lot of photographers who will want to run this camera down, comparing specs with an A7RV, but this I feel misses the point of owning a fixed-lens compact (using that fabulous Zeiss Sonnar F2 lens that has to be matched precisely with each camera that leaves the production line).
Stay tuned, and I will bring you the preview as soon as I am able.