Cameras/Identify Leica camera
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Question
My neighbor passed away and left two Leica cameras. Could you please help me identify them and approx worth?
Both are Leica D.R.D. Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, red top on iso dial. ser# Nr624969 and Nr609304.
one has Summitar lens f=5 cm 1:2.
second has Schneider-Kreuznach Tele-Xenar 1:3.5/135.
They each have corresponding view finder on top of camera.
Both Are Exc +++
Thanks for any help you may give me, Ron
Hello Ron,
These are both examples of the same model. You have two Leica IIIf cameras, the lower serial number from 1951 and the higher number from the largest batch of these cameras (30,000 were made!) Leitz of Germany produced in 1952. A total of over 180,000 were sold between 1950 and 1957, so it remains one of the most common cameras from Leitz. Unfortunately they were prone to shutter problems. A truly excellent example of the Leica IIIf with a matching Summitar lens should sell for around $400 today. With the Schneider lens you should only expect around $300. Condition is the key, as there are MANY of these floating around. If you'd like to send me a couple of digital images so I can more precisely assess condition and value, I can be reached directly at <silver@well.com> and I will gladly look them over for you. Also, if you need to sell them, I'll gladly provide the contact information for a few collectors who would make very fair offers for a stress free transaction.
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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