AboutDavid 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:
Expert: David Silver Date: 7/4/2007 Subject: Leica camera value
Question I have a Leica rangefinder in "good" condition. Everything works and it takes great pictures. I can't find exactly what model it is. Hope you can help. I would also like to know the estimated value.
On top of the camerait says Leica with the letters D.R.P. right below the name. Then, below that it has the name Ernst Leitz Wetzlar. The serial number is 198336. I will greatly appreciate any info you can provide.
Thank You,
Vince Cowan
Answer
Hello,
You have a Leica III (also known as the Leica Model F), a basic 35mm coupled rangefinder camera, made by Leitz of Germany in 1936. This is a common model, with over 76,000 sold betwwen 1933 and 1939. It is significant as the first camera offered by Leitz that featured the rangefinder for accurate focusing. A truly excellent example, with an appropriate 5cm normal lens (a Leitz Elmar or Summar) would sell for about $400 in the collectible camera market. Less than excellent and the value drops considerably. There are many floating around in well worn shape that tend to only bring $150-$200.
