Leica If Spy Leica *

This extraordinary prototype Leica camera, based on the Leica If, was designed for discreet, undercover photography—most likely developed for the West German secret service during the Cold War era. Ingeniously modified, the camera features an imitation Elmar 9cm lens mounted on the front, while the actual functioning lens is cleverly concealed on the top plate, pointing upward. This innovative design allowed the photographer to simulate conventional shooting, while secretly capturing images either straight ahead or to the side, depending on how the camera was held. A precisely engineered internal mirror redirects the image to the film plane, enabling covert operation without attracting attention.
This unique camera is extensively illustrated in Lars Netopil’s Prototype Leica (pages 262–265), and is believed to be the only known example of its kind. A rare and historically significant piece for any serious Leica or espionage equipment collector.