The serial number indicates this lens as a first version full black paint Summicron with brass focussing mount.

The unique 5cm f/2 black paint rigid Summicron lens no.1468861, with chrome bayonet mount and black chrome dual scale focussing ring, is very unusual and presumable a special factory request by the primary buyer. This makes this camera the second earliest example of this hugely collectible model to ever be offered on the open market. The cameras serial number, seen on the top plate and internally on the chassis, officially records this as the 15th black paint M3 camera produced and delivered by the Leitz factory. The majority were delivered to Sweden and there were individual examples delivered in Paris, New York and Germany. This example is in fine working condition with shutter and original viewfinder glass in top condition.įactory delivery records shows only 90 of these pre-series cameras were delivered before the first official batch of black M3 rangefinders in 1959 (serial numbers starting 959***), much less than 90 of these pre series cameras are still known to exist. Delivered to the Magnum Photo Agency Paris in 1958, the extremely heavy paint wear is commensurate with a camera that was used professionally. Lens: Leitz 5 cm f/2 rigid Summicron black paint/black chromeĪn extremely rare and very early double-stroke, black paint Leica M3, with black film counter and all other early features of these un-official pre-series black paint M3 cameras. A camera that was delivered to Magnum in Paris! You can almost smell the Gitanes through the screen! I have seen my fair share of rare cameras, but this one is something else.Ī Special Order Leica M3 Black Paint ‘Magnum’ Rangefinder Cameraĭelivery Date: 12th April 1958/Magnum Photo Agency, Paris They have managed to curate some really special pieces for the next auction, but this camera really takes the cake. This beautiful camera and lens are the centerpiece of their upcoming auction on the 14th of November. And what could be finer than this stunning M3?

Having worked with many types or art and collectibles they have now started curating some of the finest cameras around.

Just look at it, it has patina to die for!Ĭhiswick Auctions (Pronounced Chiz-Ick for anyone not from London) are an established auction house based in London. One of the earliest Black Paint Leica M3’s is about to come up for auction and you shouldn’t miss it.

Leica 50mm summicron f2 serial numbers