16th Apr, 2025 11:00
Fine Photographica
A Leica M3 'First Batch' Black Paint Rangefinder Body
1959, black paint, serial no. 959412, body, F, shutter working
Notes: This example is from the first batch of Leica M3 black camera cameras produced in 1959. Only 100 examples were produced with serial numbers starting at 959401, making this the 12th produced.
Provenance: Purchased new by the current owner (ex-press photographer for the Sunday Times) from Kafetz Cameras LTD, 234 Baker Street, London, N.W.1 in 1960
Service Report: Carefully removed the top plate and shell taking care not to disturb the black tape fitted to the camera. The shutter release mechanism was cleaned and adjusted. Light CLA was carried out on camera. Internal marks indicate the camera major service in 2003. All functions working correctly, rangefinder is cleaned and calibrated. Shutter accuracy within 1/2 stop. No signs of any internal damage and all is correct within the camera. The camera is fully functional and advanced/transport very smooth.
Sold for £42,500
Result plus buyers premium
1959, black paint, serial no. 959412, body, F, shutter working
Notes: This example is from the first batch of Leica M3 black camera cameras produced in 1959. Only 100 examples were produced with serial numbers starting at 959401, making this the 12th produced.
Provenance: Purchased new by the current owner (ex-press photographer for the Sunday Times) from Kafetz Cameras LTD, 234 Baker Street, London, N.W.1 in 1960
Service Report: Carefully removed the top plate and shell taking care not to disturb the black tape fitted to the camera. The shutter release mechanism was cleaned and adjusted. Light CLA was carried out on camera. Internal marks indicate the camera major service in 2003. All functions working correctly, rangefinder is cleaned and calibrated. Shutter accuracy within 1/2 stop. No signs of any internal damage and all is correct within the camera. The camera is fully functional and advanced/transport very smooth.
Auction: Fine Photographica, 16th Apr, 2025
