Leicaflex SL Silver Chrome 35mm SLR Camera Body Leitz Wetzlar 1968 - Serviced

Description

The Leicaflex SL is a precision 35mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera manufactured in Wetzlar, Germany by Ernst Leitz GmbH. Introduced in 1968 as the successor to the original Leicaflex, the "SL" designation stands for Selective Light, introducing spot selective through-the-lens (TTL) light metering across a bright microprism focusing screen. Serial number 1199537 confirms manufacture in 1968. Built like a tank with a mechanical focal plane shutter capable of speeds up to 1/2000s, depth-of-field preview lever, battery check feature, and native 2-cam/3-cam Leica R bayonet lens mount compatibility. This specific camera features a service sticker on the baseplate noting a professional service history by DAG (Don Goldberg / DAG Camera Repair). Fully mechanical shutter operation independent of battery power.

Condition

Overall Condition: Excellent

Cosmetically in exceptionally clean, well-maintained condition with minimal signs of age or handling across the chrome top and bottom plates. Vulcanite body leatherette is intact and tightly adhered across the entire chassis. Mirror box and viewscreen are clean and clear. Fully tested and operational: mechanical focal plane shutter fires crisply across all speeds from 1/2000s down to 1s plus Bulb, single-stroke advance operates smoothly, frame counter advances properly, mirror lockup/DOF preview lever functions, and battery compartment is corrosion-free. Serial number 1199537. Manufactured in 1968. Fully tested and functional.

Included

• Leicaflex SL 35mm SLR Camera Body (Silver Chrome, Serial No. 1199537)
• Integrated Take-Up Spool & Battery Cover Cap

Key Features

• Manufactured in Wetzlar, Germany in 1968 (Serial No. 1199537)
• Through-The-Lens (TTL) Selective Spot metering mechanism
• Ultra-durable mechanical focal plane shutter with top speed of 1/2000s
• Exceptionally bright microprism viewfinder screen
• Leica R bayonet mount accepting classic 2-cam, 3-cam, and R-only lenses
• Mechanical self-timer lever, depth-of-field preview lever, and battery test indicator
• Noted DAG (Don Goldberg) service history sticker on baseplate

Collector's Notes

The Leicaflex SL is widely regarded by enthusiasts as one of the most rugged, over-engineered 35mm SLR bodies ever manufactured. Designed during the golden age of Leitz Wetzlar mechanical manufacturing, its shutter action and mirror damped assembly offer a tactile precision unmatched by modern bodies. Examples in pristine cosmetic shape featuring DAG service provenance are highly prized by collectors and active film photographers using Leica R optics.

Keywords

Leicaflex SL, Leitz Wetzlar 1968, Vintage Leica SLR, Leica R Mount Body, DAG Serviced Leica, Tested Leicaflex, Chrome Leica SLR