The Sony RX1II has become a classic and is the only Sony camera whose value is increasing!

Sony RX1R II: The Only Sony Camera Becoming a Collector’s Classic

Most Sony digital cameras lose value over time. But there is one clear exception — the Sony RX1R II.

In 2020, used RX1R II prices hit rock bottom around $1,850. Now, in 2025, the camera trades for around $2,200–$2,400 — a rare climb in value for any Sony model. The RX1R II is now seen as a true collector’s item — with a long tradition, unique features, and sex appeal. Even younger generations are rediscovering this masterpiece.

RX1R II Price History (2015–2025)

RX1R II Price History USD

Overall increase from lowest price: +26.32% (from ~$1,850 to ~$2,400).

Why the RX1R II is Gaining Popularity Again

  1. Most compact full-frame fixed lens camera on the market — there is still nothing quite like it.
  2. Most affordable full-frame fixed lens camera available — and demand for such cameras is booming.
  3. No replacement model in 10 years. It is no longer in production and rare — much like Bitcoin :)

The RX1R II will likely reach $2,600–$2,650 by 2030 — unless Sony surprises the market with an updated RX1R III. The demand among collectors and photographers remains very high.

Google Trend Analysis

Google Trends RX1R II

Top markets: Japan, Germany, UK, USA. Audience: majority male 30–50, pro photographers, collectors, YouTubers. Popular search terms: “RX1R II vs Leica Q”, “RX1R II sample photos”, “RX1R II sharpness”, “RX1R II best settings”.

RX1R II vs Leica Q3: How Do They Compare?

The Leica Q3 is the RX1R II’s closest modern rival — and costs more than double. Here’s how they compare:

  • Price: RX1R II (~$2,400) is far more affordable than Leica Q3 (~$4,500–$5,000 used)
  • Size: RX1R II is much more compact and pocketable — Leica Q3 is bigger, heavier
  • Lens: RX1R II — 35mm f/2 Zeiss vs Leica Q3 — 28mm f/1.7 Summilux (with crop modes)
  • Sensor: Q3 wins with 60MP modern sensor — RX1R II still delivers beautiful 42MP images
  • Autofocus: Q3 is faster — RX1R II aging but still accurate for slower subjects
  • Battery life: Leica Q3 clearly better — RX1R II’s biggest weakness is small battery
  • Menu/UI: Q3 is more modern — RX1R II could benefit from Sony’s latest UI

Summary: If you want the smallest full-frame fixed lens camera with timeless style — RX1R II still wins. For those needing 60MP, faster AF, and better battery — Leica Q3 is king (but expensive and big).

Used Price Comparison: RX1R II vs Leica Q3 vs Ricoh GR III vs X100VI

RX1R II vs competitors price USD

Why the RX1R II is Unique

  • No other compact full-frame with a fixed lens delivers this balance of size and image quality.
  • Timeless design — a digital classic, appreciated more and more over time.
  • Build quality, Zeiss optics, film-like shooting feel.
  • Appealing to collectors and pro photographers alike.
  • A camera that holds — and even grows — in value.

What We Would Love to See in a Future RX1R III

  • New 61MP sensor (like Leica Q3)
  • Best AF in class
  • Improved battery life
  • Updated modern Sony menu
  • Keep the iconic 35mm f/2.0 Zeiss lens design

In the end, the Sony RX1R II is the standout in Sony’s digital lineup — the only model with true collector’s value. And I hope Sony will release a new version soon!

Sony Is in Trouble? Outdated Cameras, Up to 30% price hike in the USA – My Urgent Advice!

The up to 30% price hike on Sony gear in the US has now been implemented across all major retailers — and that’s a big problem for several reasons.

  1. Sony products were already priced higher than much of the competition. With this increase, it’s becoming even harder for amateur and enthusiast photographers to justify buying new gear.
  2. Full-frame systems are now increasingly out of reach for many, pushing potential buyers toward APS-C cameras. But in that segment, Sony’s lineup is limited, while Fujifilm offers a wider range of more affordable, beautifully designed, and technologically advanced options.

In the video above, I break down

  1. How Sony’s pricing compares to its competitors
  2. Why this strategy could backfire

What Sony needs to change now:

  1. Offer more competitive pricing
  2. Refresh outdated models quickly
  3. Embrace trends: fixed-lens cameras, entry-level APS-C bodies
  4. Add built-in Kodak-style film simulations
  5. Make cameras exciting, fun, and beautiful again!

Dear Sony, the time to act is now.

Price increase on Cameras:

Price increase on Lenses:

Sony USA price increased now official on Adorama

The predicted U.S. price hikes are now confirmed on Adorama. However, B&H Photo and Amazon haven’t updated their prices yet—so you might still have a few hours to preorder your gear at the “old” price.

Cameras:

Lenses:

Sony wants to position smartphones as Alpha camera accessories

As you may know, Sony’s smartphone Xperia business has been struggling. If you’re curious about their next move, take a look at this newly leaked image shared by Reddit user Ed-Banger. He writes:

  1. Smartphones as Alpha accessories: …the question is: will they offer us a successor of the first PRO that is (at least with an adjusted price tag) also interesting for normal Xperia users or will the bring us more devices like the PDT-FP1 which are not really usable for anything else than that special purpose. Anyway, it looks like they’re moving the usage of smartphones as accessory for cameras away from the regular models (no more External Monitor app) to specialized devices. I’m hoping that these devices resemble regular smartphones.
  2. On ODM-rumours from highly unreliable sources: We know that the 1 VII is made in China but we don’t know for sure whether it’s made in-house by Sony (Sony has its own factories in China) or by a third party manufacturer. Not that it makes much of a difference anyway but Sony underlines that manufacturing of TVs and smartphones will be conducted by an optimized mix of in-house and outsourced production.
  3. The transformation will be completed by FY2026 (Sony’s fiscal year 2026 starts in April 2026)

Really don’t know if this strategy will work out for Sony…