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Panasonic has launched some interesting cameras over the years. The company introduced a full-frame beauty like the S9 and the S1R II, and also has MFT models like the Lumix G100D or GH7. While Panasonic may not be as popular as Canon, it continues to be loved by hybrid shooters and professionals. However, one camera that has gained immense attention is not a newly launched device, but a camera introduced in 2014 for travel and street photographers: the GM5. Here’s a look at what makes this device a collector’s item today.
Panasonic on the Rise Again
For the uninitiated, the Panasonic GM5 was launched a decade ago and was called the smallest Micro Four Thirds camera. Inspired by the interchangeable lens camera, the GM1, the GM5 features a 16MP sensor, Wi-Fi, a 921k-dot LCD, and the ability to shoot 1080P videos. It is bundled with flash, has features such as focus peaking, and has a 1/166,000 maximum shutter speed. A compact camera, the device is now gaining more attention, with photographers and collectors trying to get a piece of it.
According to 43rumors, the camera’s price has increased by over 83% since its last lowest point. In other words, it went from $324 to $600 today. Depending on the device and its usage, some are even ready to pay as much as $1,100. The cost is slightly higher for color models, such as red or green.
Of the colors, the red GM5 was made in smaller quantities, which is why it is seeing more popularity in Japanese markets. However, on eBay in general, many more models are selling for more than 500%.
Why is the GM5 Trending Again
There are multiple factors to this. One of the main reasons is that Panasonic does not have a new GM5 successor in the market, and those who want a compact body will have to rely on the G100 series instead. Furthermore, after the COVID era, more people are now interested in travelling, and the fatigue of smartphone photography is leading many casual shooters to get a compact camera that meets their needs. The GM5 is stylish and can do the tasks instantly. And so, having a retro-aesthetics camera, at a cost-effective price, is what is driving people.
In fact, Panasonic’s popularity is gaining new heights despite companies like Fujifilm and Ricoh having excellent models. However, the Panasonic GM5 is colorful, while the Ricoh only has one color. Despite the larger sensor of Ricoh models, many people are going after the appearance of the camera body rather than technological feats alone. As for Fujifilm, it is just too popular for one to be able to get their hands on an old model easily, making Panasonic the choice.
In fact, predictions state the GM5’s average cost will rise to $750 in five years, with the red color models going close to $900. While a lot of users don’t go after MFT, it seems the format is now gaining more popularity, especially since tariffs are ruining the ability to buy a new camera. There is also fatigue in the camera market, with Fujifilm X Half being one of the few cameras that can excite travel photographers or content creators.
This is pretty huge considering many people assumed smaller sensors are dead and that cameras like Leica or Hasselblad are collector’s items. However, it showcases that many users are simply tired of new technology and are finding new ways to use old tech more meaningfully. Perhaps, Panasonic takes this as a sign and introduces a new camera that can rival the X Half. But it remains to be seen how long GM5 is able to keep its cult icon title intact.
