By Kien Lee
Leica marks a century of excellence (1925-2025) with the grand opening of its new flagship store in Singapore, located at South Beach Quarter. This state-of-the-art store is the largest and newest addition to Leica’s presence in Southeast Asia, blending the brand’s century-old legacy with Singapore’s dynamic cultural atmosphere.
The event is especially significant as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Leica I, the first mass-produced Leica 35mm camera, which was unveiled to the public at the Leipzig Spring Fair in 1925. This milestone celebrates not only the brand's innovation and history but also its ongoing connection to photography enthusiasts and artists worldwide.
A site with deep historical ties to Singapore’s colonial past, Leica’s newest store stands as a testament to both the city’s rich heritage and its vibrant future. This space stands as a dynamic hub that brings together innovation, intellectual exploration, and collective engagement, fostering a connection between Leica’s legacy and the people it serves.
Originally established in the early 1900s, the former Beach Road Camp was once home to the Singapore Volunteer Corps and would lay the foundation for what would later become the Singapore Armed Forces. Over the years, it witnessed countless pivotal moments in the nation’s short yet remarkable history.
Today with Leica’s arrival, it has been transformed into a space where creativity can flourish, learning can thrive, and the community can come together in new and exciting ways. It is a unique blend of heritage, innovation, and culture, marking a new chapter in the ongoing stories of both Leica and Singapore.
Housed within a beautifully restored colonial building, the new flagship store flawlessly blends old-world charm with modern elegance. Rich wood accents create an intimate and inviting atmosphere, reimagining the space as something beyond a mere store – it is an embodiment of timeless artistry and contemporary innovation.
The thoughtfully designed layout, with its smooth transitions and focus on comfort and discretion, ensures a unique and personalised experience for every visitor. Exceeding the concept of a typical retail space, this flagship store is a hub for art and photography enthusiasts, a place for those who seek to uncover untold stories and 'Capture Meaningful Moments’.
World-class exhibitions, workshops, and community initiatives hosted by the Leica Akademie will inspire and engage visitors. The Leica Galerie offers a platform for artists to showcase their work, while Café Leitz, the indoor café, along with the charming outdoor patio, provides a relaxing space to connect and enjoy freshly brewed coffee.
This is a space where visitors can explore, discover, and even uncover their artistic potential, while experiencing the full range of Leica products – Cameras, Cine, Watches, and Sport Optics.