Ricoh GR IV: limited edition celebrates 30 year of GR series

A limited version of the current GR IV inspired by the original Ricoh GR1 film camera from 1996, the camera will be produced in 6,000 units worldwide. 

Since the release of the RICOH GR1 film camera in October 1996, the GR Series has been committed to the essential GR values of high image quality, quick response, and portability, in pursuit of the ultimate snapshot camera. The current products in the series have continued that commitment without change, and Ricoh says the company is “ deeply grateful for the support they have received from both professionals and experienced amateurs alike.” 

The original Ricoh GR1 stood out by combining a slim point-and-shoot format with features aimed at more experienced photographers. Its fixed 28 mm F2.8 GR lens, using seven elements in four groups and designed to deliver high image quality across the frame, autofocus, aperture-priority exposure and magnesium exterior gave it a balance of portability, image quality and control that helped make it a popular second camera among professionals as well as advanced enthusiasts.

The GR lens quickly became an important part of the camera’s reputation. In 1997, Ricoh produced a limited run of 3,000 GR Lens 28mm F2.8 lenses in Leica screw mount, allowing the optical design developed for the GR1 to be used as an interchangeable lens on compatible cameras. The response underlined how strongly the GR identity had become connected not only with compact size, but also with the performance of its fixed lens.

Ricoh continued to develop the film series with the GR1s, GR10, GR21 and GR1v, refining the same basic concept with updated controls and, in the case of the GR21, an ultra-wide 21 mm lens. In 2005, the GR concept moved into digital photography with the first GR Digital.

Although the technology has changed considerably over the past 30 years, the basic philosophy has remained remarkably consistent. The GR series continues to focus on a compact body, a fixed wide-angle lens, high image quality and quick handling, making the camera easy to carry and ready for spontaneous photography.

The Ricoh GR IV 30th Anniversary Edition is based entirely on the existing GR IV ( (released in September 2025), and shares the same technical specifications. This includes the 18.3 mm F2.8 GR lens with a 28 mm equivalent angle of view, approximately 25.74 megapixel APS-C sensor, GR ENGINE 7 processor, five-axis image stabilization and a start-up time of approximately 0.6 seconds.

What distinguishes the anniversary edition is its design and accessories. The shutter release and rear buttons use a dark silver finish inspired by the original GR1, while the special GN-3 (30th) ring cap features a diamond-cut surface influenced by the area surrounding the GR1 lens. A dedicated 30th Anniversary graphic is also displayed when the camera is switched off.

The kit includes a genuine leather GS-4 (30th) finger strap, an engraved GK-2 (30th) metal hot shoe cover and a special set of 16 pin badges. The badges represent the 14 GR models released to date together with GR and 30th Anniversary logo badges. 

To celebrate 30 years of GR legaly Ricoh created a four-day immersive experience in New York, dedicated to the GR community (October 22–25). This special pop-up event celebrates the people, images, and experiences that have shaped the GR community through exclusive presentations, live shooting sessions, creator discussions, networking opportunities, and guided photo walks. There are also other Ricoh GR events in Los Angeles, London and, again, New York.

The Ricoh GR IV 30th Anniversary Edition Kit brings together the current GR IV with design references to the camera that started the series three decades ago, marking 30 years of the GR concept. The new limited-edition camera will start to ship in October 2026, with a recommended selling price of $1799.