Sigma Pays Tribute To Its Lens Foundaer

Sigma used to be a company that manufactured lens converters. Today, Sigma is a worldclass lens maker and it is all thanks to the guidance of CEO Michihiro Yamaki. The Japanese founder of Sigma lens died at the age of 78 due to liver cancer. His passion for photography and innovation has allowed Sigma to create one of the first large sensor compact cameras. We at camera.co.uk would like to offer our condolences to his family and staff.

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Japanese camera and lens maker Sigma will remain a family-owned business following the recent death of its CEO and founder Michihiro Yamaki.

The news comes as Sigma pays tribute to Yamaki (pictured), who set up the company more than 50 years ago and died on 18 January aged 78 after a battle against cancer.

His son, Kazuto Yamaki will now head up the company, the firm confirmed in a statement.

A spokesman for Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd said Yamaki senior will be sadly missed and paid tribute to his ‘energetic, capable and compassionate leadership style’.

Yamaki founded Sigma in September 1961, developing the first ever rear-attached lens converter.

‘At the time, most photo enthusiasts believed that a lens converter could only be attached to the front of a camera lens, and the 27-year-old optical engineer turned conventional optical theory on its head,’ said Sigma Corporation of America in a statement.

Sigma currently makes more than 50 lenses that are compatible with major camera brands including Nikon, Canon, Olympus and Pentax.

In 2008, Sigma bought US company Foveon, which is renowned for developing the X3 image sensor technology housed in Sigma’s line of DSLR cameras.

Earlier this month Sigma announced its first lenses for the micro four thirds compact camera system.

Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd added: ‘Mr Michihiro Yamaki guided the Sigma Corporation from its modest beginnings as the smallest of over 50 lens manufacturers in Japan, to its eminent position today as a leading and well-respected lens designer and manufacturer and an innovative, cutting-edge maker of digital cameras.

‘All who knew Mr Yamaki admired his hard work and dedication to Sigma, yet his total commitment was tempered by his consideration for his employees, associates and customers.

‘His considerable contribution to the photographic world was recognised by many accolades throughout his life, not least the PMA Hall of Fame Award, the Golden Photokina Pin and the United Nations International Photographic Council Hall of Fame Award.’

Amateur Photographer Editor Damien Demolder said: ‘What struck me about Mr Yamaki senior every time I met him was his immense wisdom. We would talk about lenses of course, and he would explain why Sigma had done whatever it was that Sigma had done that time.

‘But he would always introduce some insight about the direction of the industry, what was coming and where the camera manufacturers were headed.’

Damien added: ‘He knew what was worth doing and what should be ignored, what lens fittings would be successful and those no-one would bother to buy.

‘In the time I knew him, Sigma transformed from a secondary brand that built cheaper options, to a company whose lenses you would actually set out to buy as a first choice.

‘The introduction of the EX range brought first-rate quality and prestige to the company. Sigma is now in the safe hands of Michihiro’s son, Kazuto, but the great man himself will still be missed by all those who knew him.’

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6 comments 2013 SRT Viper First Official Teaser Leaves us in the Dark

TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2012 |

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We suppose it goes with the Viper's slithery nature to keep in the dark, but we can't say we're enthralled with the first official image of the Chrysler Group's re-branded sports car that was released just moments ago on the firm's Facebook page.The black and white picture outlines the front end of the model, which seems like it will keep the familiar face of the previous generation Vipers, but that's about it.
We'll remind you that the new Viper drops the Dodge nameplate and adopts the SRT moniker.
The Detroit automaker has told us that the new model will be the first of the series to be offered with a stability control, something that Dodge boss Reid Bigland says will widen its appeal without diluting its character.
As for the engine, there's nothing official yet but a refined version of the previous model's V10 possibly upgraded with Fiat's latest technological goods such as the new MultiAir electro-hydraulic system of engine valves could be in the cards.
The 2013 SRT Viper will come out of hiding at the New York Auto Show this April and go on sale in the U.S. before the end of the year.

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VW to Buy Out Porsche’s Shares "When The Time is Right"

TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2012 |

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It’s no secret that Volkswagen has wanted to add Porsche to its portfolio for quite some time now. After Porsche tried to acquire the VW Group without any success, the two companies decided in 2009 to complete a merger until the end of 2011.
The plan, however, was put on hold after lawsuits followed in the U.S. and Germany by Porsche shareholders who claimed that the latter had attained a debt of €10 billion (US$13 billion) in acquiring the majority of VW’s common stock.
Citing two sources familiar with the matter, German publication Der Spiegel says that VW has ditched the merger plan altogether. Since it already owns 49.9 percent of Porsche’s stock, it has decided to buy out the remaining 50.1 percent.
From a business point of view, it makes perfect sense. The two companies are already exchanging technology and incorporating Porsche into the VW Group would make synergies much more efficient.
Porsche spokesman Frank Gaube did not entirely dismiss the report: “As we said in September, we want to check alternatives and that process is ongoing".
On Volkswagen's behalf, VW spokeswoman Christine Ritz said: “Of course, all the parties are interested in achieving the goal of an integrated automotive group as soon as it makes economic sense to do so. As soon as we have made a decision, we will communicate that.”
This won’t probably happen before November 15, since doing so would mean that VW would have to pay a tax bill of €1 billion (US$1.3 billion), according to German law. On the other hand, if VW waits until the second half of 2014, it will pay zero taxes.
Story References: Businessday

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Senner Tuning Adds Some Juice to the BMW Z8

TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 2012 |

The classically styled BMW Z8 roadster has fallen into the hands of German aftermarket firm Senner Tuning, which has presented a new sports package with a selection of performance upgrades.In stock form, the Bavarian roadster sports the E39 M5's 5.0-liter V8 engine delivers 400-horses and a peak torque of 500Nm(368.8 lb-ft).
After the addition of a sports filter, a custom exhaust system and a light ECU tune, output is lifted to 450-horses and 535Nm (394.6 lb-ft) with Senner stating that the modded Z8's top speed is in excess of 300km/h (186mph).
Next up is the suspension as Senner added a Variant 2 Inox-Line coilover kit with an adjustable rebound and a new front strut bar.
The tune is rounded out with the Racing Gold varnished brake calipers and the 19-inch Schwert SC1 alloy wheels mounted on Continental Sport Contact 5P tires measuring 255/40R19 up front and 285/35R19 at the back.
The complete cost of the tune is €18,900, which comes to about US$24,500.
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Lunch Hour Shopping: L.A.M.B. Handbags and Shoes on Gilt

Gwen Stefani is one celebrity with a fashion line that real fashionistas love to wear, and today on Gilt Groupe, you can get your hands on some genuine L.A.M.B. handbags and shoes at a big discount. Think perfect-for-spring neon messengers, classic black satchels with a touch of edge and platform ankle boots that make the outfit. The bags above, for example, are now just $129 (down from $248), which equals a steal any way you do the math.
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Rachel Pally, Geren Ford and Cynthia Vincent Design Lines for QVC

Los Angeles-based contemporary designers Geren Lockhart, Rachel Pally, Cynthia Vincent and Karen Zambos are set to launch new collections created especially for QVC in February. CV by Cynthia Vincent and KZ by Karen Zambos are scheduled to debut during QVC's NY Fashion Week broadcast on Friday, February 10 at 10 PM (ET) with the GF by Geren Ford premiere scheduled for Saturday, February 11 at 10 PM (ET). RP by Rachel Pally is scheduled to debut during QVC's The Buzz on the Red Carpet – Live from LA on Friday, February 24 at 9 PM (ET) during Hollywood’s biggest awards weekend of the year. Each designer's QVC lines will include 8 pieces ranging from $47-$110, from feminine tops to boho maxi dresses.

Any QVC shoppers out there? Will you be checking out these lines on TV or online?

{Above is a sampling of some of the new items (from left): GF by Geren Ford Peony Print Sleeveless Ruffle Blouse, $64; CV by Cynthia Vincent Ruffle Front Maxi Dress, $99.50; RP by Rachel Pally Rolling Waves One Shoulder Maxi Dress, $82}http://www.timhang24h.com

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The Look for Less: J Brand 811 Mid Rise Skinny in Blue Bonnet

J Brand's 811 Mid Rise Skinny jeans in Blue Bonnet are $176 at Pink Mascara.



Get the look for less with Old Navy's Rock Star jeggings in bright blue for just $34.94 instead. These are also available in pink. Click either image to view or purchase.

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Kia Rio 3-Door Announced for Europe

Posted by William Lee at 12:14 AM

Similar to the Ford Fiesta, Europeans will be able to enjoy the cooler and more fun 3-door Kia Rio while Americans are stuck with the less-cool 5-door and downright dull sedan variants.

The Kia Rio 3-door has gone on sale in Europe, starting at £9,995 or around $15,715 based on recent conversation rates. The 3-door model will feature the same engine and model line-up as the five door, and is the first time the 3-door Rio has ever been for sale.

Four engine choices are available for the Rio 3-door, two standard gasoline models and a pair of diesel powerplants. A 1.1L CRDi engine offers a scant 74-hp and 125 lb-ft of torque with a fuel economy of around 74.3-mpg. The 1.4L CRDi is a four-cylinder engine with 89-hp and 162 lb-ft of torque and has an estimated fuel economy of 70.6-mpg combined. The two new gasoline engines for the Rio 3-door include a 1.25L Kappa engine with 83-hp and 89 lb-ft of torque. The last available engine is a 1.4L Gamma engine with 107-hp and 101 lb-ft of torque. By comparison, the US-Spec Rio gets a 138 hp 1.6-liter.

The four trim models available are similar to the five-door variant- “1″, “1 Air”, “2″, and “3″. 1 Air adds air conditioning to the vehicle while the 2 offers 16-inch wheels, front fog lights and a chrome radiator grille surround. The interior on the 2 gets upgraded black cloth upholstery, cooling glovebox, electrically adjustable heated and folding door mirrors with side repeaters, leather trim on the steering wheel and gearshift and center console armrest.

Lastly, the top of the level 3 has 17-inch wheels, LED daytime running and rear lights, automatic air conditioning with auto de-fog, rain sensing wipers, cruise control, automatic projection-type headlights, heated front seats and six speakers instead of four.

Standard with all 3-door Rios is a seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

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The Comeback Gains Traction as Prices Soar for Rarest Cars

Barrett-Jackson

AUCTION STAR The 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow, which sold in Arizona, was one of five made. More Photos »

By JERRY GARRETT

Published: January 27, 2012

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SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.

Multimedia

Slide Show

Return of the Blockbuster

Slide Show

A Strong Supporting Cast

THE collector car community left its annual week of auction extravaganzas here with much to think about.

After some uncertain years, have the value fluctuations caused by worldwide economic turmoil ended? Are the record-breaking sale prices limited to the finest and rarest vehicles, or will more common offerings also benefit from the rising tide?.

A total of 2,143 vehicles were auctioned at six events here, with total sales of at least $182 million, according toHagerty.com, which tracks auction results for its collector-car price guide. One indicator — subject to the influence of available cars, to be sure — was the average sale price: $84,985, a healthy $17,142 higher than last year.

By genre, particularly strong sales were attained among European sports and racing cars like mid-1950s Mercedes-Benz Gullwings; rare classics like a Tucker Torpedo and a one-of-five 1933 Pierce-Arrow Silver Arrow; and vehicles with celebrity provenance, like a 1932 Packard Twin Six roadster once owned by Clark Gable.

But over all there was strength, relative to recent years, from the top of the price ladder to the bottom rung.

“Our totals were only a couple million off from 2007,” Craig Jackson, chief executive of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company, said in an interview, referring to the peak year before the economy went into a tailspin. “It’s coming back.”

Barrett-Jackson’s six-day event, the largest of the annual January auctions in the Phoenix area, accounted for more than half of the vehicles that changed hands during the week, with total sales of more than $90 million.

Barrett-Jackson’s top sale was a 1948 Tucker Torpedo that brought a surprising $2.9 million. The previous record for a Tucker was $1.1 million at Monterey, Calif., in 2010.

The marquee sale of the week, however, was by Gooding & Company, which sold a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing — one of just 29 produced with an aluminum body — for $4.62 million, a record for that type of vehicle.

“It was aggressively estimated before the sale at $2.5 to $3 million,” the president of the auction house, David Gooding, said in an interview. “Eyebrows were raised at that amount. But the sale absolutely soared past that. We had no idea it would do that well.”

What might such a sale mean for the collector car market as a whole?

“It is a strong but discerning market,” Mr. Gooding said. “It’s very, very strong for the best of the best. But average cars didn’t set the world on fire.”

He added: “There is incredible strength for luxury brands from Europe, sports and racing cars especially, more post-World War II than prewar. Those vehicles are seeing very strong, high demand.”

Even so, six auctions in town during the week may be one or two too many. Bonhams joined the party this year with a one-day event, while at auctions conducted by RM, Russo & Steele and Silver there was a drop from 2011 both in the number of cars consigned and in gross proceeds.

“I do see the scene as a bit diluted around the edges,” Mr. Gooding said.

Even Gooding’s catalog offered some vehicles a bit out of its usual range. These included a 1953 Simplex motorcycle and a garish 1948 Chrysler Town & Country convertible once owned by the actor Leo Carrillo of the “Cisco Kid” TV series, that had a Texas longhorn head mounted on the hood. The longhorn’s eyes even lit up, blinking left or right to signal turns. “Such a unique vehicle,” the auctioneer, Charlie Ross, said with understatement.

At RM, notable deals included the $781,000 paid for a 1991 Ferrari F40 Berlinetta bought new by Lee A. Iacocca, the onetime Chrysler chairman, and the $990,000 sale of a 1959 BMW 507 roadster — one of only 251 built.

Barrett-Jackson, long considered a specialist in 1950s and ’60s American sports and muscle cars, extended its reach in the other direction. The company’s seven-figure sales — nine in all — included prewar classics from Daimler, Duesenberg and Isotta Fraschini.

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Cure for a Terminal Condition

By SCOTT STURGIS

Published: January 27, 2012

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FORDS with transmission leaks and Mitsubishi transmissions stuck in the Park position are among the mechanical ailments covered in the latest technical service bulletins.

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Mitsubishi Motor

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander

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General Motors

2011 Chevrolet Cruze

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Toyota Motor Sales

2011 Toyota Sienna

The bulletins, compiled byalldatapro.com, offer automakers’ insights into some recurring problems with various models. The bulletins, known as T.S.B.’s, are not recalls; they are information provided by manufacturers to dealers’ service departments and mechanics.

Unless otherwise noted, the carmakers do not offer payment assistance for these repairs beyond normal warranty coverage. Alldata.com sells a more comprehensive version of the bulletins to consumers. Here are a few recent examples:

BMW Some 2011 528i models may have a loose vacuum line. In T.S.B. 110911 issued on Nov. 1, BMW said that the line controlling the turbocharger waste gate might become disconnected, leading to a loss of horsepower. Installing hose clamps on the line should keep the connection secure.

It’s easy to imagine that a car owner would scratch his head if a mechanic told him, “You need a new leak diagnostic pump.” But some BMW owners may be hearing exactly that.

The pump verifies that the fuel system is sealed and not letting vapors escape, as required by pollution-control laws. In T.S.B. 010511 issued on Dec. 1, BMW said the part would be covered on 2007-8 X5 3.0si models for 10 years or 120,000 miles.

CHEVROLET A new axle shaft (or halfshaft) for the right front wheel could be in order for some 2011 Chevrolet Cruzes with the 1.8-liter engine. In T.S.B. 11225B issued on Nov. 15, General Motors said road splash could cause corrosion on the shaft, leading to a fracture if the corrosion were severe. The company will replace the parts on all models susceptible to the condition. Owners of affected cars should receive a letter about the repair.

CHRYSLER Noise from the rear of some 2011 Dodge Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans may be irritating some owners. In T.S.B. 17-003-11 issued on Nov. 22, Chrysler said the noise over bumps at low speeds was most likely to come from the rear shock absorbers. Replacing them should quiet things.

FORD Several models may have a transmission fluid leak. In T.S.B. 11-11-30 issued on Dec. 7, Ford said the problem might stem from seal or bushing wear. Affected models may include 2010-11 Fusions and Mercury Milans and 2009-11 Escapes and Mercury Mariners. Replacing the bushing, seal and constant velocity joint housing should stop the leak.

Also, shifting gears in some 2009-12 Expeditions, F-150 pickups and Lincoln Navigators may require excessive effort in cold weather. In T.S.B. 11-12-2 issued on Dec. 7, Ford said the problem could be a result of snow built up around the shift cable and lever. Adding a snow shield kit should help.

GENERAL MOTORS Malfunctioning halogen headlights in a variety of models will be fixed free. In T.S.B. 11055 issued on Dec. 5, G.M. said a problem in the electrical connector could cause the lights to turn off intermittently. Connectors and headlights will be replaced through December 2013. Affected vehicles include certain models of the 2008-10 Cadillac CTS, 2010 Cadillac SRX, 2007-10 GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook. Owners of affected vehicles should receive a letter about the repair.

KIA A campaign to replace battery cable terminals is expanding beyond earlier repairs of Optima Hybrids. Bulletins ELE020 through ELE025 add 2011 Rios, 2011-12 Souls and 2011-12 Fortes. These models need both the positive and negative cable ends replaced. The 2011-2 Sportages and 2012 Sedonas need only the positive terminal replaced. Owners of affected cars should receive a letter.

MITSUBISHI A transmission stuck in the Park position may be a result of grease in electrical contacts. In T.S.B. 11-23-004 issued on Nov. 1, Mitsubishi said grease contamination could interfere with the contacts on a switch that detects when the gearshift lever is in Park. Models exhibiting the trouble include 2007-9 Outlanders, 2008-9 Lancers and 2009 Lancer Sportbacks. Replacing the shift-lever assembly should get things rolling.

TOYOTA Winking minivans may have an easy fix. In T.S.B. 0182-11 on Nov. 23, Toyota said some 2011 Sienna headlamps might occasionally fail to illuminate. The problem is not the bulb or connector, but the power integration relay in the fuse box. Replacing the relay should brighten the outlook.

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