News |Steiff collaborates with Leica for 100th-anniversary collector’s bearss

Steiff collaborates with Leica for 100th-anniversary collector’s bears

Limited-edition Steiff bears celebrate a century of Leica photography.

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To commemorate 100 years of the iconic Leica I, Leica Camera AG has partnered with Margarete Steiff GmbH to create a special collection of limited-edition Teddy bears. These exquisite bears honour the legacy of Leica, the first mass-produced 35mm camera that revolutionised photography.

The “Elsie” and “Ernst” collector’s Teddy bears are named after key figures in Leica’s history: Ernst Leitz II, the visionary behind Leica, and Elsie Kühn-Leitz, his influential daughter. Handcrafted from high-quality mohair, each bear exudes charm and precision. Limited to 500 pieces each, the bears come dressed in era-appropriate outfits and include miniature Leica cameras. “Elsie” features a classic red neck bow, while “Ernst” sports a black suit complete with a white beard. Each bear is presented in premium packaging, accompanied by a story about their inspiration.

In addition, the anniversary collection includes the “Cuddle” Teddy bear, an adorable plush companion in a red-and-white striped shirt, holding a camera. This playful bear appeals to both children and photography enthusiasts, capturing Leica’s enduring appeal across generations.

These bears exemplify the shared values of Leica and Steiff: craftsmanship, innovation, and timeless design. The “Elsie” and “Ernst” collector’s bears are priced at €600.00/£520.00 each, while the “Cuddle” bear is priced at €125.00. Availability begins in January 2025 for the collector’s bears and May 2025 for the “Cuddle” bear, through Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store, and Steiff Stores.

Leica 100th anniversary accessories

This collaboration is part of Leica’s global celebration of a century of photography, featuring international events, exhibitions, and special product launches. The year-long festivities culminate in an anniversary week at Leica’s Wetzlar headquarters in June.

Key Items and Pricing

  • “Elsie” and “Ernst” Collector’s Bears: €600.00/£520.00 (January 2025)
  • “Cuddle” Teddy Bear: €125.00 (May 2025)

For more information check out the Leica and Steiff websites:

Leica Anniversary Collection
Steiff Official Website

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