Epson Japan has released the R-D1x digital rangefinder (non-SLR) camera, a new version of the original R-D1, the successor to the R-D1s (2006).

The new R-D1x is equipped with the same 6.1 megapixel APS sized (23.7mm×15.6mm) CCD sensor for shooting in RAW, JPEG or RAW and JPEG simultaneously.

The 2-inch (235K) swivel LCD monitor is replaced by a 2.5-inch fixed version with 23 million pixels and LED backlight for low power consumption. Or you can use a separate internal viewfinder to compose and focus. Focus is manual only.

In addition, the new R-1Dx comes with a removable handgrip to mount on the right and the SD card slot now supports cards up to 32GB.

So, we see that the camera is extremely basic in its layout – there’re no huge LCDs, auto modes and touch screen controls, but there are plenty manual settings necessary for professional photography. In fact, it reminds me of traditional pro film cameras and evokes real nostalgia)

The Epson R-D1xG is only being released in Japan.

The Epson R-D1xG – Key Features:

• Type: Rangefinder
• 6-megapixel Resolution
• Image Format: RAW, JPEG, RAW and JPEG
• APS-C CCD sensor
• 2.5 inch LCD screen
• SDHC card support
• EDiART image processing
• Removable Handgrip
• Leica M and L lenses compatibility
• Will be available in Japan on April 9th

You can get acquainted with the original R-D1 at photographyreview.com.