LEICA IIG
Leica IIg was an experimental camera that never reached serial production21 and was never marketed24.
Technical Specifications
The camera featured no self timer and no slow speed dial24.
In 1980, discussions with a senior foreman at Wetzlar revealed that only a small number of Leica IIg cameras, fewer than 15, were produced in 1957. A batch of 1,000 cameras with serial numbers ranging between 825001 and 825999 had initially been allocated, but the work order was cancelled almost immediately, according to the foreman. The serial numbers were then reassigned to the IIIg models, while the small number of IIg cameras that had already been assembled were sold to Leitz employees or dealers at a special discount. The serial numbers for this limited batch remain unknown and may not even run consecutively from 825001. The reason for the abrupt cancellation of the IIg work order remains a mystery. With no self-timer or slow speeds, the IIg could have easily appealed to a market segment seeking a less expensive rangefinder-equipped Leica, a niche previously served by the IIf154.
The camera with serial number 825001 has been retained at the factory and now resides on the Leica Tree in the Wetzlar Museum. The camera with serial number 825015 belongs to a select group of only three other IIg cameras known to exist. A thorough search of the factory shipping records at Wetzlar did not reveal any special code for the IIg cameras, as all cameras in the 825001-825999 serial number range carry IIIg codes. It is possible that other IIg cameras exist outside this range due to upgrades converting Ig bodies. However, such occurrences are likely uncommon given the relative rarity of the Ig model itself. Conversions would feature the serial number of the Ig on the new top plate, as well as on the end of the body casting near the film cassette154.
According to one reliable source, a batch of twelve to fourteen IIG cameras was produced and sold360. Another source indicates that a conversion service was established at Wetzlar for an American Leica dealer who believed there was a market for such cameras360. If this second claim is accurate, it could explain why the aforementioned batch was created to meet a special order360.
Collector's Corner
Leica IIg is the true "Holy Grail" of the Leica collector154.
Leica IIg with serial number 825015 was sold off at the 36th Leitz Photographica Auction for 72000€ in June 13th, 2020360.