OM System has officially announced that a new product will be revealed on February 6. It is highly likely that this will be the much-rumored OM System OM-3, a Micro Four Thirds camera designed with a retro look and analog controls, all housed in a sturdy metal body.
Pricing Expectations
Earlier speculations suggested that the new camera might be priced around $1,500. However, fresh leaks from prominent camera insider Andrea Pizzini suggest that the OM-3 may actually debut at a price closer to $2,000. There remains a chance that a version of the OM-3 could still be available at the initially rumored price of $1,500, with the $2,000 tag potentially indicating a lens kit.
Lens Updates Coming Soon
OM System has also announced plans to release two new lenses in 2025, which means the OM-3 might be launched alongside one of those lenses. It seems improbable that the OM-3, which is categorized below the OM-1 II in the lineup, would be priced less than $400 lower than the flagship model, which is currently priced at $2,399.99 on Amazon.
Leaked Footage and Insights
Pizzini’s price leak comes with additional authentic images and videos showing the OM-3 held by what looks like influencers or test photographers. The leaked footage shows the OM-3 in a snowy environment, hinting that it could have some weather sealing, which would justify the higher price. Meanwhile, the OM System OM-5, which also has weather sealing, is priced at a more accessible $999.99 on Amazon. It’s uncertain, but it seems unlikely that OM System would create such a big price gap between the mid-range OM-5 and the premium OM-1 II, especially considering the mid-range’s success with Fujifilm.
A Sneak Peek from OM System
The latest leaked video includes a subtle reveal from OM System itself on a YouTube channel, giving viewers a glimpse of the OM-3’s rear design. About two seconds into the video, the OM-3 can be spotted on a table with other photography equipment. Initially, it appears to resemble the OM System OM-5, but the top control layout next to the EVF prism is noticeably different. The retro metal design continues to the back of the camera, although there is a sizable articulating touchscreen located just below the centrally positioned EVF. The right back panel seems to have a small grip lip, which is also reminiscent of the OM-5. It might be reasonable for OM System to incorporate some components from the OM-5 into the OM-3, as doing so could significantly reduce manufacturing costs.
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