A Trove of Vintage Leica Cameras Is up for Grabs
In a move certain to excite the most dedicated photography fans, some of Leica’s rarest cameras are headed to the auction block.
To celebrate the 70th anniversary of Leica’s M series, auction house Leitz Photographica Auction has assembled a selection of the rarest vintage examples for a unique sale. Among the particularly noteworthy inclusions are a rare Leica M2 gray paint from 1958, a very early Leica M3, and a refurbished prototype dating from 1948. These are among a whopping 423 lots that collectively highlight nearly every facet of photographic history.
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Since its launch in 1954, the M series has remained one of Leica’s most significant models thanks to a level of versatility that allowed it to be used by everyone from fine artists to the U.S. military. The M model was in development for several years prior to its release, resulting in experimental prototypes that few have seen until now.
Lot 76 is one such example that was produced between 1948 and 1949. Though originally non-functional, it has been restored and upgraded to fully operational condition. “The camera is one of the earliest known prototypes from the development of the M, without a serial number and composed entirely of unique machined and handcrafted parts,” said Alexander Sedlak, managing director of the Leitz Photographica Auction. “This unique M3 prototype is one of the most remarkable items we have ever offered at our auctions.” It is estimated to hammer down for between $637,293 and $743,536 (€600,000 to €700,000).
The auction will also have a charitable component in its program to coordinate with the M’s anniversary. The philanthropic lot in question is a Leica M6J with serial number 1994-10, part of a special edition that Leica released in 1994 for the M’s 40th anniversary. Carefully maintained in mint condition, the M6J comes with a collapsible Elmar 2.8/50mm lens and is expected to garner between $6,375 and $7,438 (€6,000 to €7,000). All proceeds of that sale will benefit Licht ins Dunkel, a charity that raises money for people with disabilities.
Leitz Photographica Auction’s Leica sale will take place on November 23 at the Hotel Bristol in Vienna, Austria.
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