The Ricoh GR is a compact camera with a fixed prime lens that uses a large APS-C sensor – the same type of sensor used by larger DSLRs. Besides the solid construction, textured finish, and faux leather grip, the GR is a bit plain-looking. If this little cam with the heart of a DSLR appeals to you, but you want something a bit jazzier, Ricoh has put out a limited edition model with new design and accessories.
The special edition GR has a “magnesium-alloy body sheathed in a metallic vintage green wave-tone finish with a high-gloss shine,” according to Ricoh. The grip is marbleized ebony patterned in burl wood. Complementing it are a hood and adapter with a special texture, plus a camera case and strap real chocolate color-tinted leather. When you power down, a GR Limited Edition exit screen appears to remind you that your camera is special.
Outside of the cosmetic touches, the camera functions like its plain-Jane sibling. It has a 16-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with no low-pass filter, and a 18.3mm f/2.8 fixed lens. For more about this camera and its performance and features, check out our full review.
The Ricoh GR Limited Edition may not look drastically different (unlike the rebranded Sony cameras from Hasselblad), but, at $900, it’s only $100 more than the regular GR for an extra touch of uniqueness. Yes, it’s expensive for a point-and-shoot, but it operates as a DSLR-like level.