Description
The Leica M3 is the foundational 35mm interchangeable-lens rangefinder camera manufactured in Wetzlar, Germany by Ernst Leitz GmbH. Renowned for introducing the Leica M bayonet mount, quick-loading spool mechanism, and its high-magnification 0.91x viewfinder with automatic parallax-corrected frame lines for 50mm, 90mm, and 135mm lenses. Features a single-stroke film advance lever mechanism, self-timer, frame line preview selector lever, dual PC flash sync sockets, and a non-rotating shutter speed dial. Fully mechanical and battery-free operation. Complete with original removable chrome baseplate and internal take-up spool.
Condition
Overall Condition: Excellent
Cosmetically in very clean, well-kept condition with light surface handling marks and faint bright marks on the chrome top and bottom plates. Vulcanite body covering is intact across the chassis without major chips or cracks. Viewfinder and rangefinder optical path are clean, clear, and bright with crisp double-image patch contrast. Fully tested and operational: shutter curtain is in sound condition, mechanical focal plane shutter fires accurately across all speeds from 1/1000s down to 1s plus Bulb, single-stroke advance operates smoothly, frame line preview lever functions properly, self-timer mechanism runs reliably, and baseplate latching mechanism locks firmly. Fully tested and functional.
Included
- Leica M3 Single-Stroke 35mm Rangefinder Camera Body (Silver Chrome)
- Original Removable Chrome Baseplate
- Internal Film Take-Up Spool
Key Features
- Manufactured in Wetzlar, Germany by Ernst Leitz GmbH
- High-magnification 0.91x optical viewfinder with automatic parallax-corrected frame lines for 50mm, 90mm, and 135mm lenses
- Smooth single-stroke film advance lever mechanism
- Precision Leica M bayonet mount accepting native M lenses and adapted LTM lenses
- Mechanical focal plane shutter covering speeds from 1/1000s to 1s plus Bulb
- Front frame line selector preview lever and mechanical self-timer lever
- Pure mechanical operation requiring no battery power
Collector's Notes
The Leica M3 is widely celebrated as one of the finest mechanical rangefinder cameras ever built. Its high 0.91x viewfinder magnification provides an unmatched, lifesize focusing experience when shooting with 50mm lenses. Highly favored by collectors and film photographers alike for its legendary build quality and smooth mechanical operation.
Keywords
Leica M3 Single Stroke, Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, Leica Rangefinder, Vintage Leica M Body, Leica M3 Chrome, Tested Leica M3, 35mm Film Rangefinder
