This is an “ugly” new “beast”! Leica announces the X-U Rugged camera

This camera will not win a beauty contest but it will not fail you in situation where most cameras would crash. Leica announced the new X-U Rugged camera (full press text at Explora):

This tough, German-made camera has a waterproof depth rating of 49′ for up to 60 minutes, or IP68. In terms of shock-proofing, its anti-slip rubber exterior is tested to withstand a drop from 4′ high onto a 2-inch-thick wood surface. The body itself, aside from being durable, is of the intuitive design expected from Leica, managing to incorporate a manual focus ring onto the lens, a 3.0″ 920k-dot rear LCD, and a variety of rear controls. To make the X waterproof and durable, the rear dial has been replaced with “plus” and “minus” buttons for fast setting adjustment. Along with all of this, the lens has a built-in flash on top that will help to illuminate dark scenes.

You can preorder it for $2,950 only(!?!?!) at Bhphoto (Click here).