Leica MP-114 black paint *

The Leica MP was first introduced at the “Photokina” fair in Cologne in 1956. Far more than a simple variation of the Leica M3, the MP stood apart as the only serial production Leica to feature individual numbering—distinct from the standard fabrication numbers used on all other Leica models.
With only 402 units ever produced, the MP is one of the rarest Leica cameras in existence. Just 141 of these were finished in black paint, primarily destined for professional photographers. The MP quickly earned a place in the field kits of legendary Magnum photojournalists, including Alfred Eisenstaedt and David Douglas Duncan.
The concept behind the MP was driven by requests from prominent American press photographers, who wanted to utilize the benefits of the Leicavit rapid winder—then only available for the Leica IIIf—on their M-series cameras. Their suggestion sparked the interest of Dr. Ludwig Leitz, director of Leica’s development department, in 1955.
The example offered here, MP no.114, is a black paint version showing the elegant wear and character of years of professional use. A beautifully aged patina and fine paint bubbles enhance its vintage charm. It was originally delivered to Manca, New York, on July 30, 1958, and is accompanied by a matching black paint Leicavit and a black paint / brass mount Summicron 2/5cm lens, no. 1468986, which was delivered to the same dealer on September 4, 1958.
In 1959, the camera was purchased by a U.S. photographer Frank Dyra and has remained in the ownership of his family ever since. Included with the camera are copies of original correspondence from 1959, offering additional insight into its provenance and early history.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire not only one of Leica’s most desirable models, but one with exceptional historical integrity and continuous ownership.