Leica III (Model F) Prototype

Experimental camera with slow speed movement, based on an early Leica II (Model D). In 1933, the Leica III (Model F), the first Leica model with long exposure times of 1/20 to 1 sec., was introduced. The forerunner offered here still shows a number of - in some cases significant - technical deviations. The design and position of the setting lever for the long exposure times is extremely striking. We are not aware of any other specimen in this version - it may be unique. Historically significant! The 3,5 cm f/3.5 Elmar lens with serial number 138612 also represents a test sample. The construction of the focusing lever is particularly remarkable, in contrast to the serial production version. Provenance: Allen collection. Literature: James L. Lager, “Leica, an illustrated History”, Vol. I (cameras), p. 105 (exactly this camera is illustrated).