Cameras/Leica
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Question
Hi,
I have a Leica (serial # 555544) and was wondering what year/ model it is. Thanks in advance!
~Corinne
Hello Corinne,
That would be a Leica IIIf from 1951. This is a traditional 35mm coupled rangefinder camera that was made by Leitz of Germany from 1950 to 1957. It's very common, with over 180,000 units sold, making it the second most numerous model they produced, and you have the earlier "black dial" version that was not yet upgraded with the later improved shutter mechanism. However, when found in excellent overall condition, it remains a fine and desirable working camera for serious photographers, as well as a noted collectible item. For such an excellent example, complete with a proper matching Leitz 5cm normal lens (an Elmar, Summitar, or Summarit) you could expect a sale price in the $300-$350 range. Price drops dramatically with condition. There are a LOT of these floating around, so condition is key. In general, since collectible value for such a vintage camera outweighs practical usable value, a non-functioning example in excellent cosmetic shape will retain value better. So even if yours no longer functions, keep it clean and protected at all times and it will remain a good little investment! A wonderful old camera!
Best wishes,
David Silver
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David Silver
Expertise
I'm an expert on all types of antique, classic, and contemporary cameras, as well as the general history of photography. Everything from ancient box cameras to modern single-lens-reflex; from simple Kodaks to sophisticated Leica and Nikon; from glass plates and roll film to movie and 35mm. I can identify and appraise them, explain how they work, and offer insights on their restoration and care. I can also provide historical background on vintage cameras and equipment, and guidelines on their purchase and sale.
Experience
I've been a professional photographer and a student of the history of photography for nearly 30 years. During that time my collection of vintage cameras and photographic paraphernalia has grown beyond 2000 significant pieces. I've published nearly 70 articles in the field, including 16 in the popular "Buying Classic Cameras" series for PHOTO SHOPPER MAGAZINE from 1995 to 1997, I'm currently a contributing editor for CAMERA SHOPPER MAGAZINE and McKEOWN'S PRICE GUIDE TO ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC CAMERAS, and I've written numerous entries for WORLD BOOK ENCYCLOPEDIA. Portions of my collection have been displayed in museums and special exhibits in the past two decades, and many of the items were photographed as illustrations for books. In 1985 I founded the International Photographic Historical Organization (InPHO), which eventually evolved into its intended purpose as the best first resource for information on the history of photography. I'm also a founding member of several e-mail forums dedicated to specialized areas of photography, and I'm the moderator of the Internet Directory of Camera Collectors (IDCC), which remains the largest and most successful such group in the world. For more information about the International Photographic Historical Organization and its many services, please visit its web pages at:
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