Red Flag 20 (Hong Qi 20) outfit *

An extremely rare Hong Qi 20 (“Red Flag 20”), China’s ambitious copy of the Leica M4, produced in the 1970s by the Shanghai No. 2 Camera Factory. Conceived as a prestige project to demonstrate the technical and industrial capabilities of the People’s Republic of China, the Hong Qi 20 was manufactured almost entirely by hand in extremely limited numbers – most sources suggest no more than 200 examples. These cameras were never made available for commercial sale, but were reserved for government institutions, the official press, and presentation purposes. The engraved red flag emblem on the body was based on the calligraphy of Chairman Mao Zedong, underlining its symbolic importance.

The example offered here is one of the most complete and best-preserved outfits known to exist. It includes the camera body number 770191 with a 50mm f/1.4 lens no. 77066, an exact copy of the Leitz black paint Summilux, complete with hood and front cap; 35mm f/1.4 lens no. 77166, closely modelled after the Summilux, with hood and original lens keeper; and 90mm f/2 lens no. 760045, a faithful copy of the Summicron, with front cap and lens keeper. All components are in excellent condition and in perfect working order, with the lenses displaying exceptionally clean glass.

The Hong Qi 20 stands today as the pinnacle of Chinese rangefinder production and one of the most sophisticated Leica-inspired designs ever attempted outside Wetzlar. With its combination of rarity, historical significance, and completeness, this set represents a unique opportunity to acquire one of the most fascinating ensembles in the history of camera collecting.