10 Leica 250.jpg

LEICA 250 

The naming convention for early Leica camera models was different in Europe than in the USA360. Referred to as "250" in Europe and "FF" (later "GG") in the USA360. 

The Leica 250 was the only model in Leica's line-up that produced more than 36 exposures in the full 24 × 36 mm format360. It was the last camera designed by Oskar Barnack360. 


Code Names and Accessories

Leica 250 body only was code-named LOOMY365.

Leica 250 with 50mm (5cm) f/3.5 Elmar lens was code-named LOOYE365.

Leica 250 with MOOEV electric motor was code-named OORHY540.

The ever-ready case, specifically designed for the Leica 250, was code-named ESFOO360. A special template for trimming film, specifically designed for the Leica 250, was code-named ANZOO360. There were also unique focaslide/rotating copier and special ten-meter cassettes specifically designed for the Leica 250360:


First Two Prototypes of Leica 250 (#114051 and #114052)


Research and experimentation with large-capacity Leicas had been ongoing since the early 1930s360. Tests were conducted using Leica II Model D cameras, but the challenge of incorporating slow shutter speeds had not yet been resolved360. This explained why the first two Leica 250 specimens (black paint540 114051 and chrome finished540 114052) originally did not feature slow speed settings360. These cameras came from an experimental batch, and they were likely the only two to be enamelled and assigned serial numbers360. In chronological order, 114052 was completed first, and 114051 was completed second540. 


Prototype Leica 250 number 114052:

  • departed from Wetzlar, Germany on December 11, 1932, at which point the camera had not yet been officially named360
  • was delivered as a Leica II Model D for 250 photos540
  • featured an oversized Leica I Model A knob that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360
  • was one of only two (along with 114051) Leica 250 prototypes produced in 1933401
  • was illustrated on page 123 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited "Jeandrain photo"540.
  • Part of a Belgian collection in December of 1975 (see page 26 of Viewfinder, Vol. 9, No. 1, Jan-Mar. 1976)
  • Part of Hong Kongese collection in July of 2026


Prototype Leica 250 number 114051:

  • departed from Wetzlar, Germany on November 14, 1933, at which point the camera had not yet been officially named360
  • was delivered as Reporter Camera II540
  • featured an oversized Leica I Model A knob that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360
  • was one of only two (along with 114052) Leica 250 prototypes produced in 1933401
  • was upgraded to feature slow shutter speeds and strap lugs540
  • was one of only two (along with 114051) Leica 250 prototypes produced in 1933401
  • was converted to Leica 250FF with slow speeds on October 12th, 1936, according to the Leitz repair book, and never restored since401
  • was illustrated on page 123 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited "Jeandrain photo"540.
  • was illustrated "for many years in various Leica publications", including C. Emmermann's "Leica Technik"401
  • was sold for 240000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 23rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 25, 2013401. The lot was described as "Pictures of this camera were used for many years in various Leica publications (C. Emmermann 'Leica Technik')...It comes with both cassettes and a chrome Xenon 1.5/5cm no.376128..."401. 
  • was auctioned off at the OstLicht Auctions on June 5, 2024, and was described as "Originally based on a Leica II chassis the camera was converted (according to the Leitz repair book on October 12th, 1936) into a Leica 250 with slow speeds. The two cameras were the only Leica 250 prototypes produced in 1933 (see 'Hahne list' page 157). Pictures of this camera were used for many years in various Leica publications (C. Emmermann 'Leica Technik')...Since the conversion in 1936, the camera is still in the same never restored and fully working condition. It comes with both cassettes. ".


The "FF" Model 


The March-April 1934 issue of the Ernst Leitz, Inc. New York Leica Dealers Bulletin discussed the upcoming Leica 250 FF model219. This new version of the Leica was described as a special "aerial Leica camera"219. The same bulletin recommended this camera for those who copied manuscripts, took children's portraits, or specialized in news and action photography219. Other potential applications included use in universities, hospitals, and various industries219. 

The first model of Leica 250 to be produced in quantity was the Leica 250 FF, which was based on the Leica III Model F camera360. The Leica 250 FF was manufactured between 1933 and 1935 and was assigned the following batch numbers: 130001 - 130020, 135601 - 135650, 137001 - 137050, and 150001 - 150124360.

This model had a top shutter speed of 1/500 second and was equipped with the same small rangefinder/viewfinder as the Leica III Model F360. Due to a ten-meter film load, some slack might have occurred in the film360. To remedy this, the rewind knob could be used, except when the slack happenned within the take-up cassette360. Additionally, on top of the winding knob, there was a knurled ring designed to address this issue360. The rewind knob was also extendable, similar to the Leica Standard Model E360.

The camera's end sections were designed to accommodate a ten-meter film load, allowing for up to 250 exposures, which was how the camera got its name, the Leica 250360. To facilitate loading, the film was transferred between two cassettes360. While the cassettes had to be loaded in the dark, they could be installed in the camera in daylight360. Additionally, the Leica 250 could also be used with regular spools, but in that case, loading had to be done in the dark360. The cassette-to-cassette system offered the advantage of quicker reloading since there was no need to rewind the film back into the original cassette360. In basic terms, the rewind knob was designed solely to apply tension to the film as it passed from one cassette to the other, allowing for removal without the need to rewind160. 

In total, 246 Leica 250 FF cameras were made360. 


The "GG" Model 


The second version of the Leica 250, introduced in 1934364, was referred to as "GG" and was based on the Leica IIIa Model G, featuring a top shutter speed of 1/1000 second360. In addition to the difference in top shutter speeds, the Leica 250 GG model also differed from the Leica 250 FF in that its rewind knob was not extendable360. The production of Leica 250 GGs occurred directly after the last batch of Leica 250 "FF"s, with the first batch's serial numbers ranging from 150125 to 150200360. 

According to the 1939 New York catalog, the code for this model, which came with a 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens (the only lens offered at the time), was LOOYE160. 

Starting in October 1938, Leica 250 GG cameras featured a freewheel that created a more consistent airflow in the winding mechanism364. A source suggested that also starting in October 1938, the winder was upgraded to include ball bearings, and in June 1939, a film pressure roller became part of the camera design364. 

Approximately 709 Leica 250 GG cameras were produced from 1936360 to 1953364. 


With Chrome Finish

In the post-war era, a few Leica 250s appeared with chrome finishes, some of which even had Leica IIIf-type flash synchronization capabilities360. There was some debate about whether these models were originally made in black and later chromed after the war, which would align with contemporary fashion trends360. The most likely explanation was unsold stocks of Leica 250 cameras were chromed post-World War II to enhance their marketability360. James L. Lager mentioned that there were no records of chrome finished Leica 250 cameras in the factory records540. One source believed that chrome Leica 250 cameras were produced for the US market404. Some cameras were chromed just after the war by Wallace & Heaton in London401.


Military

 

The first Leica 250 cameras for army delivery were fitted with ball bearings in August of 1941364. There were 130 of those Leica 250 models made for the army, and they had no special markings externally52. The cameras were identifiable by a "K" stamped in white on the first shutter curtain364. These examples were equipped with a coupling for an electrically driven motor, which required three different coupling systems364. Each motor was specifically adapted to match a particular camera body, meaning the serial number of the corresponding camera was engraved on the base plate of the motor364. These cameras were delivered by January 1942364 (with serial numbers ranging from 353601 to 353737292).  With a capacity of 250 frames and continuous shooting capability, the Leica 250 GG could automatically take four frames per second523. 

The ball bearings allowed the camera to be operated in -45°C364. The cold testing were conducted at Berliner Reichsprüfanstalt (Berlin Reich Testing institute)364. It was reported that the camera ran on 13 ball bearings with a total of 167 balls of the following quantities and sizes: 19 0.6mm balls, 110 1mm balls, 31 1.2mm balls and 7 1.5mm balls364. 

During the war, the German Luftwaffe deployed a total of 5,700 dive bombers known as Stukas, specifically of the Ju-87 model523. These aircraft were organized into five combat squadrons, primarily tasked with supporting ground forces through bombing and machine-gun attacks on enemy troops, bunkers, artillery positions, and more523. Photographs taken during air raids by the crews of these two-man combat planes played an essential role in Luftwaffe operations523. The Luftwaffe made significant investments in this capability to showcase their successful missions to both military leaders and the public523. While reconnaissance scouts provided initial photographs, the before-and-after shots taken directly from the fighter planes offered considerable advantages for military intelligence and propaganda523. It was possible to draw conclusions about the overall impact of a completed operation based on these photographs523. To achieve the before-and-after images, the Luftwaffe employed three methods: hand-held shooting from the airplane cabin, a robotic camera built into the left wing, and a motor-driven Leica 250 GG camera attached to the aircraft's undercarriage523. The Leica 250 GG was typically mounted just in front of the tailwheel, protected by a casing and shielded by a glass pane523. Despite extensive efforts, including discussions with two World War II fighter pilots, Dr. Bahman Bawendi was not able to find any photographs depicting this protective cover in sufficient quality523. The available sources were limited to two photo reportages from "Der Adler," a propaganda magazine published by the Reich Ministry of Aviation (issues 23/1943 and 4/1944)523. Consequently, Dr. Bahman Bawendi could only speculate that the 250 GG was likely positioned upside down and attached to the plane via a permanently mounted electric drive523. This setup would have been necessary to ensure that the film cassettes could not fall out of the camera housing, which was mounted to the drive without a base plate523. Positioned near the tailwheel, the Leica 250 GG provided an additional perspective by recording the release and fall of the bombs alongside the images captured by the wing camera523.  

At the end of the war, Leitz was required to surrender two motor-driven Leica 250 cameras to U.S. troops in Wetzlar on October 9, 1945523. Aside from those, it seemed that only 15 to 20 models of the Leica 250GG with an electric motor survived the war intact523. This was not surprising, considering that the motor-drive version of the camera was specifically designed for use in the combat planes of the German Luftwaffe and their allies523. Its extreme rarity made the combination of camera and motor drive a highly sought-after collector's item523. Remarkably, despite the extensive literature available on the motor-driven Leica 250, the specific purpose of this camera-and-drive combination had been poorly documented523.


Known Leica 250 Cameras


- 130XXX Series -


130001 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360. This camera was delivered to New York540 in January of 1934219. According to James L. Lager, the camera featured a flat disc on top of the wind knob to control the tightness of film spools540. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 50 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540.

130002 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130003 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130004 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130005 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130006 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130007 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130008 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130009 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130010 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130011 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130012 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360. It was illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Rare Leica" book in 2014594. This camera, dated 1934, was sold for 32000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 7th Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 11, 2025429. The lot was described as "...Delivered on August 04th 1934 within the factory ("Muster f. Laboratorium Dr. Freund, Photo Abt." ("Sample for the Laboratory Dr. Freund, Photo Department")).  The transport knob still has a flat top, as seen on prototypes 114051 and 114052. Also unique is the design of the rewind knob, which features four milled vertical grooves in the cross-shaped knurl...Provenance: Property of a European Collector."429.

130013 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130014 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130015 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130016 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130017 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130018 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130019 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.

130020 was Leica 250 FF that came from the first batch and featured an oversized knob (similar to that of Leica I Model A) that lacked a slack take-up mechanism360.


- 135XXX Series -


135601 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135602 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135603 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135604 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135605 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135606 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135607 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135608 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135609 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in 1934403. The camera was sold for 120000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 21st WestLicht Camera Auction on May 12, 2012403. The lot was described as "...the only camera known to exist with the very early nickel knobs (as illustrated in 'Leica Handbuch' by Fritz Vith 1933)...fantastic discovery by the daughter of the first owner"403.

135610 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in 1934394. The camera was sold for 6000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 29th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 6, 2016394. 

135611 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135612 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135613 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135614 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135615 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in 1934398. It was auctioned off on April 21, 2007 at the Auction Team Breker. Later, the camera was sold for 2280 Euros including buyer's premium at the 25th WestLicht Camera Auction on March 22, 2014398. 

135616 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135617 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135618 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135619 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135620 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135621 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135622 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135623 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135624 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135625 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135626 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135627 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135628 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135629 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135601 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135630 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135631 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135632 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135633 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was converted to Leica 250 GG in chrome finish404. It was sold for 15600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404. The lot was described as "...top and base-plate re-chromed...- the chrome Leica 250 cameras were produced for the US market"404.

135634 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135635 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388. It was illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Museum Leica" book in 2018, together with unnumbered MOOEV Leica Motor596. 

135636 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135637 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388. It was illustrated in the 1979 Kazuo Nakagawa's "Leica History" (Reprint, 1994) book. 

135638 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135639 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135640 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135641 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was issued in 1934388.

135642 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 51 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited to "Greco photo"540. It was auctioned off on September 26, 2008 and later on September 26, 2009 at the Auction Team Breker. Later, camera was offered but remained unsold at the 38th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 12, 2021385. It was upgraded on the front with an early type flash sync connectors385.

135643 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219. It was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 35th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 23, 2019388. The lot had the following description: "...in black/nickel finish..with all early features like flat film advance knob..."388.

135644 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135645 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135646 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135647 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135648 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135649 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.

135650 was Leica 250 FF from the second production batch that was delivered in June of 1934219.


- 137XXX Series -


137001 was auctioned off on September 25, 2024 at the Weiss Auctions.

137002 was Leica 250 FF that was converted to a flash synchronized black paint Leica 250 GG404. The camera sold for 3660 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404. The lot was described as "...chrome knobs, export camera with all matching features (top-plate engraved 'Germany', base-plate engraved 'open-closed'), some parts repainted..."404.

137003 was Leica 250 FF that was part of Kenjiro Nakamura's collection in 1995 and was exhibited at the "History and Development of Imaging" exhibition at the Memorial Museum of the Machine Industry in the same year569. The photograph of the camera was featured on the pages of Camera Review No. 37 (Leica-Book '96), published by Asahi Sonorama (Tokyo) in 1996569.

137011 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in August of 1934219.

137013 was Leica 250 FF that was dated 1934380. The camera featured "O.N.E.R.A. Z100466" abbreviation for Office National d'Etudes et de Recherches Aérospatiales (French Aeronautics and Space Research Center)380. The camera was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 43rd Leitz Photographica Auction on November 25, 2023380.

137019 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in 1934383. The camera was modified by Leitz for the Danish pharmaceutical company Nordsik, with a special modified back with openings in both film chambers and in the pressure plate383. The camera was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 40th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 11, 2022383.

137020 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in August of 1934219.

137021 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in August of 1934219.

137022 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in August of 1934219.

137023 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in August of 1934219.

137024 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in August of 1934219.

137025 was Leica 250 FF that was to New York on August 11, 1935389. The camera was sold for 7800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 34th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 8, 2019389. The lot had the following description: "...export version engraved with 'Germany' on base plate...engraved on top plate with 'Fl126652' (probably a military inventory number)..."389.

137032 was Leica 250 FF, dated 1934, that was  illustrated on the page 77 of Paul-Henry van Hasbroeck's " The Leica: A History Illustrating every Model and Accessory" book360 .                          

137041 was Leica 250 FF, dated 1934, that was sold for 1560 Euros including buyer's premium at the 17th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 29, 2010407.

137048 was Leica 250 FF, dated 1934, that was sold for 2280 Euros including buyer's premium at the 24th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 23, 2013400. Camera comes in nickel finish400.


- 150XXX Series -


150001 was Leica 250 FF that was manufactured in 1936 and later converted to Leica 250 GG401. The camera was sold for 40800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 23rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 25, 2013401. The lot was described as "...base plate engraved 'Germany open-close'...ex Surat Osatanugrah collection"401. Later, it was auctioned off on November 21, 2025 at the OstLicht Auctions.

150009 was Leica 250 FF dated circa 1934377. It was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 46th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 27, 2025377. Before that, the camera was sold for 3600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 21st WestLicht Camera Auction on May 12, 2012403. The lot was described as "...with nickel finish (early syn. on front, small part of vulcanite missing)..."403.

150017 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in November of 1934219.

150018 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in November of 1934219. The camera was sold for 11400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 17th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 29, 2010407. The lot was described as "...nickel fittings, both cassettes, base plate engraved 'Open-Close, Germany'..."407.

150019 was Leica 250 FF that was dated 1934 and  illustrated on the page 77 of Paul-Henry van Hasbroeck's " The Leica: A History Illustrating every Model and Accessory" book360 . It was described as "unusual in that its top speed (and that of other cameras in the same batch) is 1/1000 sec., for normally Leitz would not convert a camera from the Leica III (1/500 sec.) to the IIIa (1/1000 sec.) specification."360.                          

150026 was Leica 250 FF that was dated 1934389. It was sold for 7800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 34th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 8, 2019389. 

150027 was Leica 250 FF that was dated 1936381. It was sold for 9000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 42nd Leitz Photographica Auction on June 9 and 10, 2023381. The same camera was offered for sale but remained unsold at the 40th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 11, 2022383.

150029 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in November of 1934219.

150032 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in November of 1934219.

150033 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in November of 1934219.

150035 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in November of 1934219. It was sold for 4000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 4th Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 8, 2022425. The lot was described as "...with nickel fittings and 1/500 sec...Rear opening in the body-shell, this probably served to focus on the film plane for a special technical application. Inventory number "1213" on the back in white lacquer on the vulcanite cover..."425.

150042 was Leica 250 FF that was manufactured in 1935386. The camera was sold for 10800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 37th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 21, 2020386.

150049 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered on September 19, 1935 to Berlin (shipment number 4361)394. The camera was used by a German scientist in meteorology at the German Air Force394. The camera was sold for 7200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 29th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 6, 2016394. 

150052 was Leica 250 FF, dated 1934, that was illustrated in Viewfinder Vol 17 No 3 1984.

150055 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered to Tel Aviv on April 14, 1935533. This camera was offered but remained unsold at the 47th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 22, 2025533. 

150057 was Leica 250 FF that was was delivered in May of 1935219.

150059 was auctioned off on February 20, 1997 at the Christie's.

150069 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in June of 1935219.

150070 was Leica 250 GG was listed in the delivery records as a camera that had a shutter speed knob with "1/1000" shutter speed indicator (source: James L. Lager)540.

150072 was Leica 250 FF that was manufactured in 1934398. It was auctioned off on November 22, 2008 and later on May 16, 2009 at the Auction Team Breker. Later, the camera was sold for 3600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 25th WestLicht Camera Auction on March 22, 2014398. 

150081 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in 1934219. The camera was sold for 3600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 26th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 22, 2014397. 

150084 was Leica 250 FF that was manufactured in 1936386. The camera was sold for 5400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 37th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 21, 2020386.

150092 was Leica 250 GG was listed in the delivery records as a camera that had a shutter speed knob with "1/1000" shutter speed indicator (source: James L. Lager)540.

150096 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in June of 1936219.

150097 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in June of 1936219.

150098 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in June of 1936219.

150099 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in June of 1936219.

150100 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in June of 1936219.

150101 was Leica 250 FF that was delivered in 1936403. The camera was sold for 3840 Euros including buyer's premium at the 21st WestLicht Camera Auction on May 12, 2012403. The lot was described as "...modified around 1954 to 1/1000 sec. Shutter speed and synchronised, chrome knobs..."403. Later, it was auctioned off on June 18, 2016 at the LP Foto Auktioner.

150105 - There were 2 Leica 250 FF cameras with this serial number. According to James L. Lager's article published in Viewfinder Vol 23 No 1 1990, one camera, featured on the cover of Viewfinder Vol 23 No 1 (1990), had been part of a collection in the United States since approximately the 1970s, and its ownership was well documented. The serial number on the rangefinder cover of this camera matched the serial number on the top bearing plate. Another camera with the same serial number was listed in Christie's auction catalogue dated July 27, 1989. This second camera appeared to be in significantly better condition, showing no edge brassing in comparison to the first camera. It was auctioned off on September 30, 2008 and later on May 12, 2009 at the Bonhams 3.

150110 was auctioned off on June 1, 2023 at the OstLicht Auctions.

150111 was Leica 250 FF that was dated 1934 and auctioned off at OstLicht Auction on May 28, 2026.

150115 was auctioned off on April 23, 2021 at the Auction Team Breker.

150124 was Leica 250 FF that was dated 1936 and was part of Charles M. Messer collection, located in The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio496. The camera was restored by George Carr (source).

150125 was Leica 250 FF that was illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Rare Leica" book in 2014594.

150126 was auctioned off on May 11, 2024 at the Auction Team Breker.

150130 was Leica 250 FF that was part of Sherwood Collection in 1984 (see Viewfinder Vol 17 No 3 1984). It was auctioned off on January 27, 2000 at the Christie's

150132 was Leica 250 GG that was originally delivered to Madrid, Spain, on January 22, 1935385. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 38th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 12, 2021385.

150137 was auctioned off on December 12, 2007 at the Roseberys.

150149 was Leica 250 GG that was extensively illustrated on pages 38-41 of Camera Review No. 67 (Leica-Book '03), published by Asahi Sonorama (Tokyo)584. The bottom cover of this camera body was engraved with the characters "陸登研" (Rikutoken Nika), which could be read from right to left584. Rikutoken had been the experimental facility of the Ninth Technical Research Institute, part of the Army Science Research Institute—a branch of the Army Ordnance Administration Headquarters of the Imperial Japanese Army584. This facility was commonly referred to as the Noborito Research Institute584. Research conducted at the Ninth Technical Research Institute involved secret warfare materials, and while the specifics remained unknown, it was recognized as the starting point for the development of balloon bombs and the counterfeiting of Chinese court currency584. The Noborito Research Institute was established in 1937, so this Leica, made in 1936, likely arrived from Germany as brand-new equipment584. Later, at some point in time, this camera was stored in an old locker at the Tokyo Polytechnic University, together with Leica I Model A584. The camera was part of The Japan Camera Museum's special exhibition titled "The Leica ~100 Years of Leica~", that took place from October 29, 2013 to March 2, 2014.

150159 was Leica 250 GG that was dated 1936 and sold for 6600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 40th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 11, 2022383.

150161 was Leica 250 FF that was illustrated on the page 73 of the Dennis Laney's "Leica Collector's Guide" (2nd edition)534. This camera was finished in chrome534. 

150164 was auctioned off on August 9, 2022 at the Leski Auctions Pty Ltd.

150165 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in September of 1937219.

150167 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1938393. The camera was sold for 5400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 30th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 19, 2016393. 

150169 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1936398. The camera was sold for 10200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 25th WestLicht Camera Auction on March 22, 2014398. Before that, it was sold for 5280 Euros including buyer's premium at the 14th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 30, 2008410.

150185 was Leica 250 GG that  was illustrated on the page of Paul-Henry van Hasbroeck's " The Leica: A History Illustrating every Model and Accessory" book360 . It was described as "fitted with a post-war rangefinder housing. The engraving (in capitals, as was normal with the late models) is, unusually, filled with lead."360.    

150193 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in September of 1937219. It was auctioned off on November 19, 2022 and later on November 18, 2023 at an American auction.

150194 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in September of 1937219. This camera was illustrated in Viewfinder Volume 29, Number 2, 1996.

150195 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in September of 1937219.

150200 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in September of 1937219.

150910 was Leica 250 GG that was was manufactured 1936387. The camera was sold for 4800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 36th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 13, 2020387.


- 260XXX Series -


260003 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1937219.

260004 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1937219.

260005 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1937219.

260007 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1937219.

260010 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1937219.

260014 was Leica 250 GG that was dated 1937 and was illustrated on page 51 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540.

260037 was auctioned off on March 20, 2010 at the Auction Team Breker.

260042 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in February of 1936378. The camera was sold for 16800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 45th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 23, 2024378. 

260050 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in April of 1938219.

260051 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1937401. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 23rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 25, 2013401. The lot was described as "...top plate engraved 'S-T' (Specialite Tiranty - the French Leitz distributor), both film cassettes (engraved '34' and '37')..."401. 

260055 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in April of 1938219.

260056 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in April of 1938219.

260057 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in April of 1938219.

260058 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in April of 1938219.

260061 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1937419. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 5th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 29, 2004419.

260062 was Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on the page 34 of Gianni Rogliatti's "Leica, the First Fifty Years" book and on the page 72 of the Dennis Laney's "Leica Collector's Guide" (2nd edition)534. It was auctioned off on September 25, 2024 at the Weiss Auctions.

260096 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered to London on July 21, 1938533. This camera was sold for 7200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 47th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 22, 2025533. The lot was described as "...black/chrome Leica Reporter...black paint finish refurbished...Leica records shows repairs done in 1959 and 1965..."533.


- 300XXX Series -


300015 was Leica 250 GG that was dated 1938 and was illustrated on page 53 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera was rebuilt in 1950's540. 

300017 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1938415. The camera was sold for 5640 Euros including buyer's premium at the 9th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 20, 2006415. The lot was described as "...restored (new painted, re-chromed, new leather covering), export version with 'Germany' engraving on the hot-shoe..."415.

300019 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1938398. The camera was sold for 18000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 25th WestLicht Camera Auction on March 22, 2014398. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 52 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540.

300029 was Leica 250 GG that was dated 1938597. The camera had the "full slot" motor coupling shaft597. The camera was expected to be auctioned off at the 8th Wetzlar Camera Auctions on October 10, 2026597.

300034 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in November of 1938219.

300035 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in November of 1938219.

300036 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1938, shipped to London, UK on November 7, 1938, and was serviced on December 17, 1957. The source of this information was email from Peter Brieger, Product Specialist at Leica Camera AG, in September of 2025.

300037 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in November of 1938219.

300038 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in November of 1938219.

300039 was auctioned off on September 26, 2008 and later on September 20, 2014 at the Auction Team Breker.

300041 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in November of 1938219. The camera was sold for 11400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404.

300053 was auctioned off on November 19, 1987 at the Christie's.

300058 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1938 and delivered to London in January of 1939391. The camera was sold for 54000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 32nd WestLicht Camera Auction on March 10, 2018391. The camera came from Jim Jannard collection391.

300061 was a motor-coupled401 Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1938401. The camera was sold for 7200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 23rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 25, 2013401. 

300062 was a motor-coupled408 Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1938408. The camera was sold for 4200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 16th WestLicht Camera Auction on December 5, 2009408.

300071 was Leica 250 GG that was auctioned at the Bohnam's "The Fine Leica Centenary Sale" on November 29, 2014 at Bonhams Hong Kong Gallery in Hong Kong531. The camera used to be part of Stuart Cohen collection before 2013 (see Viewfinder, Volume 46, Issue 3).

300072 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on January 20, 1939, to Berlin with shipment number 22029406. This camera was featured on page 56, 4/2015 Leica Fotografie International magazine, with MOOEV electric motor drive number 10008 attached to it523.

300074 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered on January 20, 1939, to Berlin with shipment number 22029406. It was classified as German military camera and was engraved 'Re.370832' on top plate (Reichssicherheitshauptamt)406. It was sold for 30000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 18th WestLicht Camera Auction on December 4, 2010406.

300075 was motor-coupled405 Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1938405. The camera was sold for 6840 Euros including buyer's premium at the 19th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 28, 2011405. 

300076 was Leica 250 GG that was dated 1938597. The camera was expected to be auctioned off at the 8th Wetzlar Camera Auctions on October 10, 2026597.

300087 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1938388. The camera was sold for 9000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 35th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 23, 2019388.

300091 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered to London in 1939377. This is an export version with "open-close" base plate377. The camera was sold for 6600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 46th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 27, 2025377.

300092 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1939. It was auctioned off on November 19, 1987 at the Christie's. Later, the camera was sold for 3840 Euros including buyer's premium at the 17th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 29, 2010407. The lot was described as "...factory converted to IIIf type, chrome knobs, both film cassettes, base plate engraved 'open-close, Germany'..."407.

300094 was Leica 250 GG that  was illustrated on the page 79 of Paul-Henry van Hasbroeck's " The Leica: A History Illustrating every Model and Accessory" book360 . It was described as "very unusual specimen, in satin chrome covering, was rebuilt at Wetzlar to Leica IIIf specifications, a conversion which necessitated the provision of a new rangefinder housing. The engraving, as one would expect with a GG model, is in capitals."360.    

300095 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to London on June 2, 1939 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

300097 was auctioned off on April 21, 2007 at the Auction Team Breker.

300099 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1938413. The camera was sold for 4320 Euros including buyer's premium at the 11th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 26, 2007413. 


- 324XXX Series -


324001 was illustrated in Kikuo Urago's "Leica MANUAL" book in 1984598. 

324002 was Leica 250 GG that was part of Kenjiro Nakamura's collection in 1995 and was exhibited at the "History and Development of Imaging" exhibition at the Memorial Museum of the Machine Industry in the same year569. The photograph of the camera was featured on the pages of Camera Review No. 37 (Leica-Book '96), published by Asahi Sonorama (Tokyo) in 1996569.

324004 was motor-coupled377 Leica 250 GG that was delivered to London in 1939377. The camera was sold for 4800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 46th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 27, 2025377.

324014 was auctioned off on December 12, 2007 at the Roseberys.

324016 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324018 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324024 was auctioned off on November 21, 2025 at the OstLicht Auctions.

324028 was full-slot motor-coupled540 Leica 250 GG that  was  delivered to New York on June 24, 1939 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). The photograph of this camera appeared on page 55 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition " book540 .      The camera was illustrated on page 66 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 3 - Accessories" book574 . This camera was illustrated together with MOOEV number 10105 in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Museum Leica" book in 2018596. 

324029 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324030 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324031 was auctioned off on June 17, 1999 at the Christie's.

324036 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324037 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324038 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to New York on June 24, 1939 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

324039 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324040 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in June of 1939219.

324069 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1939. The camera was sold for 16000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 5th Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 7, 2023424. The lot was described as "...refurbished in the post-war period in the course of a factory repair. Without the typical conversion to "f" type flash synchronization. The engravings "DRP, GmbH, Germany" ("Germany" engraving in DIN font) on the topplate with white fillings, "Nr." engraving before the serial number..."424.

324070 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1939417. The camera was sold for 5520 Euros including buyer's premium at the 7th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 21, 2005417. 

324075 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1939400. This camera was sold for 7200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 24th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 23, 2013400. 

324076 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1939219.

324078 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1939219.

324079 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that delivered to Stockholm on November 3, 1939 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

324082 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1939219.

324083 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1939219.

324084 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in October of 1939219.

324086 was auctioned off on February 20, 1997 at the Christie's.

324089 was Leica 250 GG that was sold for 16800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404.

324090 was auctioned off on March 5, 2016 at the LP Foto Auktioner.

324094 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1939, that was sold for 11101 Euros including buyer's premium at the 15th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2009409. The lot was described as "war-time Reporter Leica...base plate engraved: auf - zu..."409.


- 349XXX Series -


349001 was Leica 250 GG, manufactured in 1938, that was sold for 3600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 26th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 22, 2014397. 

349004 was Leica 250 GG that was sold for 6000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 42nd Leitz Photographica Auction on June 9 and 10, 2023381. The auction catalog confirmed that there were only 50 cameras in this batch of Leica 250 GG delivered in 1940381.

349009 was auctioned off on June 9, 2007 at the Auction Team Breker.

349015 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to Berlin on March 26, 1940 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

349023 was Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on page 120 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. 

349026 was auctioned off on March 21, 2009 at the Auction Team Breker.

349028 was motor-coupled418 Leica 250 GG that was sold for 8750 Euros including buyer's premium at the 6th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 6, 2004418. The lot came with a 1999 certificate by Luigi Crescenzi (Leicatime)418.

349031 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG,, dated 1940, that was sold for 4000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 7th Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 11, 2025429. The lot was described as "...A hole in the topplate - a third-party flash contact socket appears to have been removed..."429.

349034 was Leica 250 GG that was illustrated in Viewfinder, Vol. 31, No. 3, 1998.

349040 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1940, that was sold for 9000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 22nd WestLicht Camera Auction on November 24, 2012402.

349044 was full-slot motor-coupled428 Leica 250 GG that was sold for 130000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 1st Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 5, 2019428. The lot was described as "...Complete with the extremely rare mechanical "Schnellaufzug für 10 m. Kamera (rapid winder for 10 m. camera)", which was constructed in the years 1938 to 1940 at Leitz under the design number 42270 and was produced only in a few sample units. This winder, sometimes also called "SCNOO-250", had a plunger operated film advance. We are aware of only two pieces of this version of a rapid winder for the Reporter Leica in collections worldwide..."428.

349045 was Leica 250 GG, delivered to the University of Straßburg on December 24, 1941, that was sold for 192000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 24th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 23, 2013400. 

349221 was Leica 250 GG that was auctioned off at Augsburg auction on April 30, 1976 (source: Viewfinder, Vol. 9, No. 2 Apr-Jun, 1976).


- 352XXX Series -


352302 was Leica 250 GG that was associated with Italian military and was delivered on October 25, 1940 to Cattaneo, Italian Leitz agency540. This camera was engraved "R.Aeronautica" (Regia Aeronautica = Royal Air Force)540.

352315 was Leica 250 GG that was auctioned off at the Auction Team Breker on March 23, 2024.

352325 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1940407. The camera was sold for 1800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 17th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 29, 2010407. The lot was described as "...with f sync., parts repainted..."407.

352331 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1941399. The camera was sold for 18000 Euros including buyer's premium at the "100 years of Leica Camera" WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2014399. The lot was described as "...The Leica 250 or Reporter was introduced in 1934, bearing serial numbers from 130001 (1934) to 359916 (1953); total production is less than one thousand cameras..."399. Later, it was auctioned off at the Lidong Camera auction in June of 2026.

352332 was Leica 250 GG that was re-finished in chrome and illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Rare Leica" book in 2014594.

352340 was auctioned off on March 7, 1997 at the Sotheby's.

352343 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to Cattaneo, Italy on November 19, 1940 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). It was sold for 6000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 39th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 20, 2021384. 

352350 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered to Amsterdam on October 29, 1941377. The camera was sold for 22800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 46th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 27, 2025377.

352355 was Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on the page 31 of Camera Review No. 24 (Leica-Book '93)579.

352356 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1942408. The camera was sold for 6000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 16th WestLicht Camera Auction on December 5, 2009408. The lot was described as "...chrome knobs, repainted black metal parts, including red/golden inspection card with matching number..."408.

352361 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1942, that was sold for 7200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 21st WestLicht Camera Auction on May 12, 2012403. The lot was described as "including...the very rare NAKUL 250" (film strip) "complete in original wooden box marked 'Betrachtungslupe für Kleinbild-Aufnahmen'"403.

352372 was full-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to Cattaneo, Italy on November 14, 1941 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

352376 was Leica 250 GG that contained ball bearings of various sizes292. An entry dated late 1941 (Entry 79b) notes from production records from Ernst Leitz Wetzlar292 and report from September 1939 confirmed this statement364.

352379 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was originally delivered with MOOEV no. 10006 on October 27th, 1941 to BLN Berlin399. As such, motor drive MOOEV no. 10006 inside is engraved with camera no. 352379399.

352380 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1941, that was illustrated on page 51 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. This camera featured "smoothly contoured platform under frame counter"540.

352384 was half-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to December 10, 1941 to Cattaneo, Italy (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). It was auctioned off on November 19, 1987 at the Christie's.

352390 was Leica 250 GG that had "Re.370832" (Reichssicherheitshauptamt Berlin) engraved above its serial number364. It was illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Rare Leica" book in 2014594.

352392 was Leica 250 GG that had "Re.370829" (Reichssicherheitshauptamt Berlin) engraved above its serial number. Dr. Ludwig Günther Groebe featured the top plate of this camera in one of his videos in July of 2026. It had a hole for flash synchronization. 

352399 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1940, that was listed as Leica 250 FF because of the maximum shutter speed of 1/500 of a second409. The camera was sold for 3840 Euros including buyer's premium at the 15th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2009409. The lot was described as "...chrome knobs, professionally synchronised, some small parts repainted, back of top plate engraved: DVL A7/03686, cap, unusual chrome/black VIDOM finder (33 engraved on rear), rare ESFOO ever-ready case (custom made detachable front part)"409.

352400 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1941, was illustrated on page 53 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera was upgraded to have the f-series flash synchronization540. 

352404 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG, dated 1941, that was sold together with MOOEV 10006 for 576000 Euros including buyer's premium at the "100 years of Leica Camera" WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2014399. The lot was described as "The offered motor no. 10006 is the earliest example known to exist ... It was delivered on October, 27th 1941 to Bln. Berlin. The motor drive inside is engraved with camera no. ‘352379’,...A large portion of the resulting so-called “GG” model cameras was delivered during World War II. Only very few cameras were equipped with an electric motor drive MOOEV and used for aerial reconnaissance by German warplanes, where they were permanently installed. A maximum of 92 motor drives were built, most of which were lost in the air battles."399. 

352406 was half-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on December 18, 1941 to Berlin as LOOMY (Leica 250 and 5cm f/3.5 Elmar lens) (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). It was manufactured in 1941387. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 36th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 13, 2020387. The lot had the following description: "...the base plate of the camera is actually an original top plate from the...motor drive MOOEV - it is also engraved with the matching serial number 352406...(both have been restored to present condition around 1950, the Vulkanite has been replaced with faux leather)"387. Before that, this camera was offered but remained unsold at the 47th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 22, 2025533. This camera was illustrated in Viewfinder 38, Number 1, 2005. Interestingly, the photo (credited to "Mercuri photo") showed 352406 engraved inside on the bearing plate, and 220467 on the top plate.

352407 was auctioned off on December 12, 2007 at the Roseberys.

352408 was the serial number of the motor-coupled Leica 250 GG camera that was engraved inside of MOOEV number 10037533. This MOOEV motor was "delivered to Berlin (December 19, 1941)...The connectors on the back are later. The Motor is engraved inside with a different camera serial number (352408), which is not surprising and further proof that the camera survived the turmoil of war. In operation, cameras were often swapped when a new film was needed, while the motor remained fixed in the aircraft."533.

352411 was Leica 250 GG that was manufactured in 1940388. The camera was sold for 9000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 35th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 23, 2019388.

352412 was ramp-type motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on December 19, 1941 to Berlin (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). It that was originally delivered with MOOEV no. 10038, likely on December 19, 1941 to Bln. Berlin399. As such, motor drive MOOEV no. 10038 inside is engraved with camera no.352412389. The motor was illustrated on page 66 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 3 - Accessories" book574.

352417 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was sold for 31200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404. The lot was described as "this Leica 250 with an internal power shaft socket for use with the special electric motor drive was delivered to the DVL (Deutsche Versuchsanstalt für Luftfahrt - German Laboratory for Air travel in Berlin) for testing the ball bearing shutter in this camera (for condition to -45° celsius)... The camera is engraved 'DVL A7/03685' on back of top-plate...- see VIDOM Special from October/2010"404.

352426 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered to Italy on January 12, 1942380. The camera featured a partially repainted rangefinder housing380. The camera was sold for 4560 Euros including buyer's premium at the 43rd Leitz Photographica Auction on November 25, 2023380.

352436 was half-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on January 12, 1942 to Cattaneo, Italy (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

352448 was Leica 250 GG that was auctioned off on November 22, 2008 at the Auction Team Breker.

352452 was ramp-type motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on January 2, 1942 to Italian Leitz agency Cattaneo in Genova and designated for the Italian Air Force427. It was offered but remained unsold at the 2nd Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 10, 2020427. 

352464 was half-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on January 2, 1942 to Cattaneo, Italy (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

352459 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1942, that was sold for 3840 Euros including buyer's premium at the 14th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 30, 2008410.

352482 was Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on page 73 of the "10 Jahre Leica HISTORICA: Beiträge zur Geschichte der LEICA" book in 1985595.

352493 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1942, that was sold for 6600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 37th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 21, 2020386.


- 353XXX Series -


353601 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1942, was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 12th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 17, 2007412.

353604 was Leica 250 GG, delivered to German Army on August 21, 1942 with shipment number 9079, that was sold for 6250 Euros including buyer's premium at the 2nd-3rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2003421. The lot was described as "...not coupled to motor-drive..."421.

353606 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG, dated 1942, that was sold for 180000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 18th WestLicht Camera Auction on December 4, 2010406. The lot was described as "Camera no.353606 and motor no.10062 are from the same delivery batch on August 21st, 1942 to BLN Berlin (15 cameras and motor drives, delivery number 29353). Motor engraved with body no.353619 (also from the same batch delivered to the German Air Force)...(serviced by Ottmar Michaely in 2004)..."406.

353607 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on the page 73 of the Dennis Laney's "Leica Collector's Guide" (2nd edition)534. The camera had chrome instead of nickel fittings534.

353613 was sloping ramp-type motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered to Berlin on June 26, 1942 and had Leica-Motor MOOEV number 10037 attached to it at the time of sale in 2025533. It was offered but remained unsold at the 47th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 22, 2025533. The lot was described as "Many of the resulting so-called “GG” model cameras were delivered during World War II. Only 92 cameras were equipped with an electric motor drive (MOOEV) and used for aerial reconnaissance in German warplanes—most of them permanently installed in the infamous STUKA dive bombers. Many of these cameras were lost in air battles, and today, only around 15 examples are known to exist...special film-guide rollers to maintain film tension during high-speed operation. The included Leica-Motor MOOEV no. 10037 was also delivered to Berlin (December 19, 1941)...The connectors on the back are later. The Motor is engraved inside with a different camera serial number (352408), which is not surprising and further proof that the camera survived the turmoil of war. In operation, cameras were often swapped when a new film was needed, while the motor remained fixed in the aircraft."533.

353619 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was originally delivered with MOOEV no. 10062 on August 21st, 1942 to BLN Berlin (15 cameras and motor drives, delivery number 29353)406. As such, motor drive MOOEV no. 10062 inside is engraved with camera no. 353619406. In 2004, the camera was featured on the advertisement for Auction Team Köln - Breker - The Specialists on page 68 3/2004 Leica Fotografie International magazine.

353622 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG was sold for 456000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 34th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 8, 2019389. The lot had the following description: "...The offered 250 GG has been delivered to Berlin (13.11.1942)...has got the usual modifications to use it with the Leica-Motor MOOEV, like the coupling shaft (sloping ramp type) or special film-guide rollers, maintaining the film tension during the high-speed operation. The included Leica-Motor MOOEV no.10038 also has been delivered to Berlin (19.12.1941)....It is engraved on the inside with a different camera serial number 352412..."389. In July of 2026, this camera was displayed in Yodobashi Fujisawa Camera Museum in Tokyo, Japan.

353640 was half-slot motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on October 12, 1949 to Freiburg (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). It was was illustrated on page 55 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera was illustrated on page 66 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 3 - Accessories" book574.

353642 was auctioned off on December 12, 2007 at the Roseberys.

353645 was auctioned off on November 15, 2025 and later on May 30, 2026 at an American auction.

353652 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG, dated 1944, that was sold for 171250 Euros including buyer's premium to a Japanese collector506 at the 5th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 29, 2004419. The lot was described as "...The camera and the 24V motor have the same number. The specially made leather bag for camera and motor is also unique. The camera survived the turmoil of the war undamaged because it was not issued to Capt. Koonan of the 9th U.S. Air Force with motor number 10067 until Oct. 9, 1945 (a copy of the Leitz sales book is attached). We believe that Capt. Koonan had the bag specially made by Leitz at the time and that the camera was never used.."419. The camera still exists because it never actually left the factory until the arrival of US troops in Germany, despite its serial number indicating that it was manufactured in 1943506. In October 1945, shortly after the war ended, a US Air Force captain discovered the camera and took it home with him506. This camera was referenced by Japanese Leica historian Kazuo Nakagawa in the article titled "History of Leica-Ur Leica to Leica IIIc" published in the MIRROR IMAGE - PENTAX GALLERY NEWS No. 33, 1976 (see Viewfinder, Volume 11, Number 3, July-September, 1978). The motor and the camera were illustrated in the 1979 Kazuo Nakagawa's "Leica History" (Reprint, 1994) book. 

353653 was the motor-coupled Leica 250 (dated 1943506), that together with MOOEV number 10027, were delivered to an office of the U.S. 9th Air Force on October 9, 1945574. According to a different source, a US Air Force captain discovered the camera and took it home with him506. Either way, The outfit, believed to never actually left the factory until the arrival of US troops in Germany506, was brought to Wright Field, Dayton, Ohio some time after the World War II, "for evaluation along with other German equipment"574. The camera's baseplate was missing because the MOOEV was attached to it574. To use the camera without the motor, a baseplate was necessary574. Apparently, such a baseplate was constructed by machinists at Wright Field574. The outfit was believed to never have left Dayton, Ohio, until it was put up for sale in 1965574. Then, the camera and the motor were separated, with 2 collectors buying each574. In 1991, James L. Lager finally persuaded the owners of the separated Leica 250 number 353653 and MOOEV number 10027 to "do the right thing and allow the reunion to take place"574. The photographs of this camera and this electric motor appeared on page 54 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540 and on pages 64-65 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 3 - Accessories" book574. The outfit was part of Kenjiro Nakamura's collection in 1995 and was exhibited at the "History and Development of Imaging" exhibition at the Memorial Museum of the Machine Industry in the same year569. The photograph of the camera was featured on the pages of Camera Review No. 37 (Leica-Book '96), published by Asahi Sonorama (Tokyo) in 1996569. It was illustrated in Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000. In the illustration camera had ramp type coupling and transverse spring as well as film tensioning roller. Later, this camera was in a private collection in the U.S. in 2003506. 

353656 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353657 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG, dated 1943, that was sold for 93750 Euros including buyer's premium at the 1st WestLicht Camera Auction on November 15, 2002422. Later, it was auctioned off on June 1, 2023 at the OstLicht Auctions.

353658 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353659 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353660 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364 (or 1942540). This chrome plated camera was illustrated on page 53 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540.

353661 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353662 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353663 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353664 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353665 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353666 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353667 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364. It was mentioned in Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000, as having a ramp type motor-coupling. 

353668 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353669 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353670 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364. This camera, together with its MOOEV electric motor number 10077, were illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Rare Leica" book in 2014594.

353671 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on June 28540, 1943364 to Berlin540. This camera was delivered as OORHY (Leica 250 body equipped with MOOEV electric motor)540. The camera had a white K on the shutter curtain540. This camera was illustrated on page 55 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited to "Peden photo"540.

353672 was ramp type motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered on June 28, 1943 to Berlin (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

353673 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353674 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1943364.

353675 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1944364.

353678 was half-slot motor-coupled (and transverse spring) Leica 250 GG that was shipped to Cattaneo agency in Italy on May 28, 1943 (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000). This camera had "M" and E. Aeronautica engraving (source: Viewfinder Volume 33, Number 1, 2000).

353679 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG, dated 1943, that was manufactured for the Italian Air Force in World War II402. The camera was sold for 43200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 22nd WestLicht Camera Auction on November 24, 2012402. The lot was described as "delivered on 28th May, 1943 to Cattaneo (delivery number 1452), engraved 'E. Aeronautica' + 'M' next to the serial number, only 2 more of these military cameras are known to exist."402. Before that, it was offered but remained unsold at the 2nd-3rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2003421. 

353681 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400. This camera later reappeared at the Christie's auction in 2004 and was sold for GBP 2350 including buyer's premium.

353682 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353683 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353684 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353685 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353686 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364. The camera, dated 1943, later resurfaced and was sold for 4080 Euros including buyer's premium at the 24th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 23, 2013400. The lot was described as "restored and upgraded (syn.) camera with both spools...according to the 'Hahne list' cameras nos.353681-353695 were stolen from the Leitz factory in 1943"400.

353687 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353688 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353689 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353690 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353691 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353692 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353693 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400. The camera, dated 1943, later resurfaced and was sold for 2880 Euros including buyer's premium at the 14th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 30, 2008410. The lot was described as "war-time Leica Reporter for 250 exposures in good working condition, chrome knobs, repainted black metal parts and restored leather covering, with rare everready case ESFOO, according to the 'Hahne list' cameras nos.353681-353695 were stolen from the Leitz factory in 1943"410.

353694 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400.

353695 was Leica 250 GG that was reportedly stolen364 from the Leitz factory in 1943, according to the 'Hahne list'400. It was auctioned off on November 23, 2012 at the Bonhams 3

353696 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was associated with Italian military and was delivered on May 28, 1943 to Cattaneo, Italian Leitz agency540. This camera was engraved "E.Aeronautica" (E was probably R, for Regia Aeronautica = Royal Air Force)540. In 1979, it used to be owned by Dr. Wolfgang Netolitzky of Gmunden, Austria (see Viewfinder Vol. 12, No. 1 Jan.-Mar., 1979). The camera was engraved with an "M" between the word "Leica" and "Nr. 353696". According to the article, it was delivered "under the codeword OORHY. On this date there was a shipment of 10-Motor Leica-250 under the same codeword OORHY, the shipment number was 1452".

353698 was motor-coupled Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on the Page 19 of the "Classic Camera" magazine Issue 8 from November 1998 and described as "dating back to 1942-43 was supplied together with few others (apparently less than 10) to the Royal ltalian Airforce, and bears a letter M as a prefix to the identification number to indicate the presence - or the possibility - of a motor winder..In the close-up of the top plate, the engravings on this very rare Leica are clearly visible. The M before the serial number, but also "E. Aeronautica" which, according to recent information stands for "Esplorazione Aeronautica " , the first word being abbreviated due to insufficient space..."M" as in motor wind, we were saying, and this picture shows the power socket for the electric motor wind, which allowed long "exploration" photo shoots in combination with the camera's ample range. The electric motor wind is much rarer than the Leica, since it is not easily recognised as a useful or valuable object..".

353699 was Leica 250 GG that was illustrated on the cover page of the "Classic Camera" magazine Issue 2 from May 1997.

353736 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1946364.

353737 was Leica 250 GG that was delivered in 1946364.

353738 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353739 was sloping ramp type motor-coupled Leica 250 GG, that together with Leica-Motor MOOEV no.10047, was sold for 900000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 42nd Leitz Photographica Auction on June 9 and 10, 2023381. The catalog description read: "...Research in the Leica Archives revealed that the offered camera is the last Leica Reporter with a MOOEV motor that left the company - it was unusually delivered to Amsterdam on 04.03.1948 (most of the cameras were delivered to the German Luftwaffe during WWII). It is in very good condition and has the usual modifications to use with the Leica-Motor MOOEV, like the coupling shaft (sloping ramp type) or special film-guide rollers, maintaining the film tension during high-speed operation. It also shows an unusual engraving on the top plate: 'N.L.L.-V-III A6'. NLL = Nationaal Luchtvaartlaboratorium (National Aeronautical Laboratory). The included Leica-Motor MOOEV no.10047 is engraved on the inside with a matching (!) camera serial number 353739 - it is very uncommon because the cameras were usually changed when a new film was needed - the motor stayed fixed in the aeroplane."381.

353740 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353741 was a full-slot (sloping ramp type424) motor-coupled Leica 250 GG and it was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364. It was sold for 3600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 5th Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 7, 2023424. The lot was described as "...Delivered to Capt. Robert E. Threlkel on February 27th 1946...Third party flash socket in the topplate rear side."424.

353742 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353743 was Leica 250 GG, dated 1942, that was offered but remained unsold at the 37th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 21, 2020386.

353744 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353745 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353746 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353747 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353748 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364. It was auctioned off on September 30, 2008 and later on May 12, 2009 at the Bonhams 3.

353749 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353750 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353751 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353752 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.

353753 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364. This camera was part of the Leica Tree, created by by Dr. G. Wangorsh, at the Ernst Leitz Museum in 1972, according to Viewfinder, Volume 5, No. 3.

353754 was Leica 250 GG that was one of only 16 Leica 250 cameras that were shipped after the World War II364. This camera was delivered in 1946364.