The Fujifilm X-Pro1 compact system camera brings the same retro styling that we've seen on the Fujifilm X100 and Fujifilm X10, and now, the time has come to enter the semi-pro space with modern tech dressed in old clothing.

Fujifilm X-Pro1: Build

The Fujifilm X-Pro1 mirror-less interchangeable lens camera differentiates itself from the competition with a few quirks. It’s lighter, and the body seems smaller than those of most DSLRs, although its certainly not the the smallest compact system camera around.

The optical viewfinder is placed all the way to one side in true retro style, but don’t let the aged look fool you. Inside the optical viewfinder, you can place a transparent graphics overlay on reality, which essentially makes the same functions available as those you’ll find in the regular menu on the 3-inch LCD.

Fujifilm X-Pro1: Screen

Speaking of the LCD, it’s a bright one, and the 1.23 megapixels on it represents what you’re shooting nicely. Unfortunately, the menu system navigation is rather confusing and not very intuitive. You certainly can’t pick up the Fujifilm X-Pro1 and start using it immediately, as it takes some time to get comfortable with the system.

The flat buttons on the back of the camera are all too easy to touch accidentally, causing involuntary changes in the settings. Not so with the analogue dials for mode selection, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, which are so sturdy, you would think Fujifilm had nicked them off an old Russian tank.

In general, Fujifilm has chosen to prioritize manual buttons over menu browsing for many of the camera’s functions, and while this adds to the retro feel, it actually makes the camera more complicated to use. It lacks the simplicity of mainstream DSLRs like the Canon EOS 600D, which you can basically pick up and use immediately or dive into for more sophisticated usage.

Fujifilm X-Pro1: Picture quality

Although our short hands-on experience with the X-Pro1 did not allow for thorough testing of its picture quality, we definitely got the initial impression that the photos taken with it are full and rich. It’s fairly easy to change the lenses on the camera, and there’ll be three XF lenses available at launch.

The heart of the camera is the APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor, which works its 16-megapixel magic together with an EXR Pro image processor. You should probably consider buying a flash though, as the X-Pro1 doesn't have one.

Fujifilm X-Pro1: Verdict

Without access to a computer or a printer on which to study the images, it’s quite difficult to evaluate how well the Fufifilm X-Pro1 executes its main purpose. Judging entirely by the camera’s own LCD, we're looking at stellar picture quality—as it should be with a price tag that exceeds £1,100.

And that’s even without the built-in flash that you'll find available on many of the X-Pro1’s rivals. The X-Pro1 lets us down, however, when it comes to ease-of-use.

Neither the‘Settings’ menus nor manual controls are particularly intuitive, and even a pro photographer would probably have to consult the manual once or twice to get the most out of this shooter. Getting comfortable with the camera’s many functions definitely requires putting in some time.

But thankfully, you'll be in good company, because the X-Pro1 really is a stunner when it comes to looks. Its build quality makes it a trusty companion for almost any conditions, outdoors or indoors—or just for posing as a young Helmut Newton.

Fujifilm X-Pro1 availability: January/February (UK and Europe)

Fujifilm X-Pro1: price: £1,100 (camera body), approximately £420 for lenses