The Leica T will be available in a black aluminum version by the beginning of August, but an all-silver edition will come first at the end of May.

The camera-strap connector system, designed in a collaboration with Audi, will eliminate buckles and click directly into the camera body.

The Leica T's minimal design touches include a power dial that releases the built-in flash when it's twisted beyond the "On" setting, as well as unmarked, context-sensitive scroll wheels.

Sharp edges and rounded sides combine to create a slick look. After the camera is CNC-milled from a solid aluminum brick, the frame is hand-polished for 45 minutes.

The strap receptors on the sides remain covered until you want to use them. You pop them off with a little metal tool included with the camera.

In addition to the touchscreen and physical controls, the Leica T has Wi-Fi features that let you share photos wirelessly and control the camera with a mobile device.

Leica was able to keep the camera's array of physical controls uncluttered by moving many functions to the Leica T's touchscreen. The "My Camera" menu is customizable, letting photographers drag-and-drop menu items to display in a certain order.

The Leica T will use a brand-new lens system, and the camera won't be available as a kit at launch. A 23mm/F2.0 prime and a 18-56mm F3.5-F5.6 zoom lens will be sold separately, as well as an adapter that will let you use Leica-M lenses.

Leica's very first camera, the Ur-Leica of 1914, sits next to its 100th anniversary offering, the Leica T.

Each Leica T body starts as a 3.5-pound aluminum brick and ends up as a sturdy, sleek 3.35-ounce unibody frame.