Fujifilm has introduced a new X-series mirrorless camera, the X-T1, which occupies the top spot in the company's mirrorless lineup. It features an SLR-like design with a centered EVF, robust weather sealing, and a 16-megapixel APS-C image sensor that utilizes the company's unique X-Trans color filter array. Wi-Fi is built in, and the rear LCD is hinged—a feature that's not always available in weather-sealed cameras.

The X-Trans sensor uses a 6-by-6 color filter array. That's more complex than the typical 4-by-4 Bayer pattern, which is found on almost every other digital camera. Fuji promises that this more complex array improves image quality at higher sensitivities and gives images a more natural, filmlike look. When we reviewed the X-E1, which also features an X-Trans sensor, we felt that images had a unique look, but it was one that was difficult to quantify. The sensor has built-in phase detect autofocus. Thanks to the EXR Processor II, Fuij promises that it can lock focus in 0.08-second, start up in 0.5-second, and shoot at up to 8fps with tracking enabled. The latest SDXC USH-II memory card format is supported.

The body is packed with physical controls. There are three dials on top : ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. Most lenses include a physical aperture control ring, which makes it possible to shoot in shutter priority, aperture priority, manual with auto ISO, or full manual mode simply by adjusting the appropriate dials. There are also dial-based controls to adjust the drive mode and metering pattern. The magnesium body is sealed at 75 points against dust and moisture, and the camera is rated for use in temperatures as low as -14°F.

The 3-inch rear LCD is hinged, packs a 1.04 million-dot resolution, and is protected by tempered glass. The EVF is the largest that Fujifilm has put in a mirrorless camera; it's an OLED design with a 2.4-million-dot resolution, a big 0.77x magnification, and a 5ms referesh rate. Wi-Fi is built-in; Fuji's implementation supports transfer of files to a smartphone or tablet, and remote control of the camera via iOS and Android devices.

There are currently no weather-sealed lenses in the Fujfiilm lineup, but the company plans to release three in 2014. These include the XF18-135mm F3.5-5.6R OIS WR, the XF16-55mm F2.8 R OIS WR, and the XF 50-140mm F2.8 R OIS WR. Price and availability for these have not yet been set. There's also the VG-XT1  vertical shooting grip in the works, which is also sealed against the elements.

The X-T1 is priced at $1,299.95 as a body only, but can also be had in a kit with the XF 18-55mm F2.8-4 for $1,699.95. Both the body and kit are scheduled for a February release.