Leica M3 prototype *

Extremely rare M3 prototype (pre-series, produced as test camera in 1952/53). The camera is in excellent original condition and in perfect working order. It got all original early features including special film advance lever, external frame counter, reversed direction of the rewind knob, shape of self-timer, top plate with distinctive corners, matching base plate also with corners, completely different shutter casting and film guides, special pre-series back etc. (see Lager I, p.173-175). All these small details makes the experience of using the camera quite unique. A rare opportunity to acquire one of the most important cameras in Leica's history, the camera was never offered in an auction before, it is also published for the first time!