The new Leica Pinmaster II Golf Range Finder is outragiously priced, but is pretty smart looking and is an improved version of the first version. It measures the driving distance to the hole and displays it over the viewfinder in an easy to read LED display. Lieca says that it will have no problems discerning between trees and other objects since the tech relies on the very first object in its path, something they’re dubbing ‘First Target Logic’ technology. It uses a 7x optical zoom and works at up to 825 yards.
If it’s raining, it’s not a problem. The Pinmaster II is finished in a water resistant casing. There is also the handy dioptre setting that allows golfers to adjust the Pinmaster II exactly for their eyesight.
The Lieca Pinmaster II costs just over $800.
Here’s the release…..
Golfing from a different point of view: Leica Pinmaster II
New laser rangefinder offers clearer display, ultra-waterproof lens coating, dual
metre/yard settings for international use23 February 2011: Leica has today announced a new version of its high-performance laser rangefinder for
golfers. The Leica Pinmaster II is designed to help golfers reduce their handicap by providing a close-up
view of the golf course and measuring the precise distance to each pin, allowing the player to choose the
correct club in a matter of seconds.
This new version of the Pinmaster offers the golfer an even clearer LED display for more accurate
measurement, up to a maximum distance of 750 metres or 825 yards. The LED adjusts automatically to
ambient light, and is particularly useful in, for example, bright sunlight on the fairway, with a visibly
sharper, brighter read-out and balanced contrast, so it is always easy to read.
In addition, a special water-repellent lens coating called Leica AquaDura™ ensures that even on the worst
rainy days, water will simply roll off, so the golfer has a clear view through the Pinmaster II at all times.
The coating also makes the lens extremely easy to clean.
Despite its advanced optical technology, the Leica Pinmaster II is straightforward to use, with just a single
button operation. The golfer simply aims the rangefinder at the pin, and at the press of the button, the
invisible, eye-safe laser beam – coupled with Leica’s ‘First Target Logic’ technology – scans the terrain
and measures the exact distance to the pin with ease. The accuracy of First Target Logic ensures that the
device picks out the very first object in its path, i.e. the pin, rather than tree branches, long grass or other
objects behind it.
The Pinmaster II’s durable die-cast aluminium body, coupled with a carbon fibre-reinforced casing, makes
it exceptionally robust yet lightweight (just 220g), and protects the device against the toughest
environmental conditions, for many years of use. It is also watertight to a depth of one metre.
Jon Sareen, commercial manager, Leica Camera Ltd, said, “This highly accurate rangefinder will become
invaluable for any golfer wishing to improve their handicap. The new dual measurement system of yards
and metres means any golfer travelling to play abroad can switch easily to the local setting, so is likely to
become a permanent item in any golfer’s bag.”
The Leica Pinmaster II not only saves time capturing distances, but also delivers precise readings every
time. The extensive range and fast, simple operation mean users avoid the complexity and expense of
maintaining electronic mapping systems.
Use of the Leica Pinmaster II on the golf course is allowed under R&A rule 14.3.
Pricing and availability
The Leica Pinmaster II, which includes a case, battery and carrying strap, has suggested a retail price of
£495 and will be available in March 2011 in the UK and the Republic of Ireland from authorised Leica
dealers including the Leica Store Mayfair: www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk, tel 020 7629 1351.
Notes to Editors
For further information, images or products for review, please contact Jenny Hodge at jenny.hodge@leica-
camera.co.uk or call 07920 291920.
