Copenhagen, Denmark-based Phase One A/S imaging company says they are making a “significant†financial investment in Japan’s Mamiya Digital Imaging to “accelerate the development of advanced, world-class medium format camera systems.â€
While they are not disclosing the terms of their deal with Mamiya, Phase One said their investment makes them a major shareholder in Mamiya.
“We are committed to providing open, upgradable medium format camera systems, so that pro photographers can enjoy the maximum flexibility and versatility at an attractive cost of ownership,†said Henrik O. HÃ¥konsson, president of Phase One. “Furthering our relationship with Mamiya Digital Imaging that we initiated in 2006, we continue to design a broad range of new cameras, digital backs and lenses that will offer the world’s leading photographers greater choice and satisfaction.â€
The Phase One-Mamiya partnership was first announced in November 2007. Back then, they vowed to introduce the first new camera system under their joint development in the first quarter of 2008. It is now the first quarter of 2009. Q1 2009 actually has 5 more days to lapse into history.