Yuji Ogasawara of the Product Development Department recalls the birth of the E-1 with a great deal of pride.
“In 2003 we transformed the world of digital SLR photography with the introduction of the E-1, the first lens-interchangeable digital SLR camera from Olympus.
Our goal was “to offer the best possible digital images with quality high enough to satisfy professionals.
“To achieve this goal, certain features were essential.
“First of all we wanted a camera that professionals would feel comfortable using, knowing that the camera was dependable under any conditions. To achieve this, we needed a rigid body that was light enough to offer maximum portability, while being capable of withstanding the severe conditions that professionals may encounter.
“Related features included unparalleled endurance to protect the high-precision mechanisms, full resistance against dust and water droplets, and overall reliability backed by these technologies.
“Ultimately, we came to the conclusion that in order to achieve these goals we needed to apply a digital-dedicated design to the entire system, i.e., the lens and flash as well as the body.”
According to Ogasawara, the next chapter in the story began almost immediately.
“In fact, it was very soon after the debut of the E-1 that we started development of the next-generation model.”