A 1930 Leica I (Model A) 35mm rangefinder‑style camera, serial number 23535, fitted with its original collapsible Leitz Elmar 50mm f/3.5 lens. This example includes a period accessory rangefinder and a leather case. A highly collectible early Leica from the Barnack era, representing one of the most influential camera designs in photographic history. Fully tested for mechanical operation.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very Good for Age
Body (Leica I Model A, 1930)
Light cosmetic wear consistent with a 1930 production camera
Shutter curtains intact and travel correctly at all tested speeds
Advance and rewind smooth
Viewfinder clear with typical age‑related dust
All controls functioning as expected
Lens (Leitz Elmar 50mm f/3.5, collapsible)
Collapses and extends correctly
Aperture ring smooth and responsive
Optics show typical internal dust for age
No fungus, haze, separation or scratches observed
Front element shows expected cleaning marks for a 1930 lens
Accessory Rangefinder
Clear and aligned within typical tolerance for age
Adjustment wheels functioning
Light internal dust consistent with period accessories
Leather Case
Present with age‑related wear
Stitching intact
Closure functional
Included
Leica I (Model A) body – Serial 23535 (1930)
Leitz Elmar 50mm f/3.5 collapsible lens
Leica Accessory rangefinder
Leather case (not Leica)
Collectors Notes
Serial 23535 places this camera firmly in 1930 production, during the early expansion of Leica’s pioneering 35mm system. The Leica I Model A with fixed Elmar lens is one of the most historically significant cameras ever produced, representing Oskar Barnack’s original compact camera concept. Examples complete with period accessories remain highly desirable among Leica collectors and early 35mm historians.
Key Features
Leica I (Model A) 35mm camera
1930 production, serial 23535
Collapsible Leitz Elmar 50mm f/3.5 lens
Accessory rangefinder
Compact Barnack‑era design
Highly collectible early Leica
SEO Keywords
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