MP Prototype

The original MP of 1956 has a special position among all collectible Leica M cameras. Basically an M3 with the following differences: No self-timer, simple non-automatic reset framecounter, coupling for the Leicavit-MP. Cameras used internally at Leitz Wetzlar were engraved 1052*, 1053* and 1083*. These cameras were produced in 1955 as fully functional prototypes of the Leica MP. The camera 1083* is in chrome finish and some of the features are different from serial production MP model, note lack of 'MP' engraving on M-Leicavit for example. According to Leitz records, the camera was given to Willi Stein, the builder of the M3 and MP on October 31st 1955. It can be assumed, that this is Stein's personal test camera. Only two more of this MP prototype were produced with the numbers 1052* und 1053*. This camera comes with the original Leicavit prototype (without MP engraving) and a 5cm Summicron lens. It is illustrated in Lager 1 page 183. The camera is in almost as-new, original condition and is a milestone in Leitz camera construction. - The MP und MP Classic series lately produced by Leica are the successors of this prototype!