LEICA IIIB Model G-1938
In his "Geburtstage der Leitz-Foto-Konstruktionen ab 1927" book, Wilhelm Albert dated "birthday" of the camera with twin viewfinder (Leica IIb) (sic.) ("Mit Sucherzwillingseinblick (Modell IIb)") as October 31, 1934, and noted himself as designer573. "Twin viewfinder" probably meant "combined viewfinder and rangefinder window" in this context364. Leica IIb was likely the first prototype of Leica IIIb (author's note). The camera illustrated in images on pages 16 and 22 very strongly resembles the Leica IIIc prototype, the camera number 335006, dated 1934, that was sold for 320000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 5th Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 7, 2023424. The lot was described as "The Leica IIIc, introduced in 1939, was the first Leica model using a construction of a die-cast shutter crate. This substantial change in Leica design was retained in all later Leica screw- and M-mount models. The first experimental designs of a die-cast shutter crate date back to the year of 1933. The camera offered here is an early, fully executed prototype of the Leica IIIc, whose completion was dated by Barnack collaborator Wilhelm Albert on October 31st 1934. One particularly interesting detail on this camera is the opening swing-up backdoor – not commercially introduced before 1954 with the Leica M3. This camera was in the inventory of the Leitz (later Leica) Factory Museum until 2003 and was often published in the secondary literature. Leitz Wetzlar Museum inventory number M240. The corresponding inventory sticker is still present. This camera is probably unique. With Elmar 5 cm f/3.5 No. 292420... Provenance: Factory Museum collection; Surat Osathanugrah collection (acquired 2003); Antonio Maresca collection."424.
It was also known that, adhering to his principle of "Möglichst klein und so klein wie möglich bauen" ("Build as small as possible"), Adam Wagner incorporated the combined viewfinder and rangefinder window from the Leica IIIb into the new die-cast injection-molded camera housings364.
According to a report from January 1937, the Leica IIIb (official model number 42202) was introduced in the year 1937364. It was constructed from lightweight metal364. As of February 1937, base plates for Leica IIIb cameras were equipped with a locking lever364.
The first year of production of Leica IIIb was 1938364. The camera was originally manufactured for export only in 1938, and could not be bought in Germany534.
Finishes
The variation in body metal finishes was quite intriguing264.
All but five Leica IIIb cameras were chrome finished540.
On September 3, 1938364, five black Leica IIIb cameras, numbers 295301, 295302, 295303, 295304, and 295305364, were shipped to Ernst Leitz in New York264. These cameras were "undoubtedly prepared to special order."540
Page 150 of Camera Review No. 45, published by Asahi Sonorama in Tokyo in 1998, featured an article by Mr. Yoshio Asakura from Kobe, Japan. The article included an illustration of a black-painted Leica IIIb with the serial number 295301, along with a 5cm f/3.5 Elmar lens bearing the serial number 510000. Mr. Asakura claimed that the camera was purchased in the United States and brought to the Classic Camera shop in Osaka, Japan, in March 1997, where he subsequently bought it.
Leica expert Lars Netopil reported seeing the one with serial number 295302, in its original black paint condition264. The camera was labeled as "LUDOO schwarz"364 in the factory records, which suggested a combination of the Leica IIIb camera and the 5cm f/2 Summar lens264. On April 1, 2026, Leitz Photographica Auction house announced that Leica IIIb number 295302 will be offered at their upcoming auction. According to the Instagram post where this announcement was made, the camera retained its chrome fittings, had a 5cm f/2 Summar lens number 496615 attached to it, came with a special black leather case, and featured the small 1/4” tripod screw. The auction house confirmed that "Extensive research conducted over the past 25 years has revealed no trace of additional examples...". The camera was sold for 312000 Euro including buyer's premium at the 48th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 13, 2026585.
Additionally, it was recorded that SUMUS Schwarz lackierte (black paint) lenses, with serial numbers 446261, 446262, 446263, 446264 and 446265, were included in the shipment264. The five black Leica IIIb cameras were among the rarest of the rare264.
Technical Specifications
The camera had two shutter speed dials, with speeds ranging from 1/1000 of a second to 1 second358.
The number of Leica IIIb cameras produced was nearly exhausted within just three years (1938-1940)264. In contrast, the total production of Leica III Model F and Leica IIIa Model G cameras exceeds five times that of the IIIb, and even during its peak production years, more Leica IIIa Model G and Leica III Model F cameras were manufactured264.
The body of the Leica IIIb was significantly reinforced with internal stiffeners264. The lens flange was attached to the body using brass inserts264. This modification addressed the increased weight of some new telephoto lenses and prevented warping, which was an issue with the flanges on earlier models264.
Measurements were 133 x 30 x 68 mm264. Camera weighted 432 gr (with spool)264.
Many Leica IIIb models were lost during World War II, making it difficult to find one in pristine condition264.
Shape of the Viewfinder Window
The Leica II Model D, Leica 250, Leica III Model F, and Leica IIIa Model G, all manufactured no later than 1937, had L-shaped frames264. There was a potentially rare version of the Leica IIIb that featured an old-style L-shaped viewfinder window frame with a bulge on one side264.
On July 31, 2025, a reader from Australia reported owning a very early Leica IIIb number 240004, dated 1937, which featured L-shaped frame. They generously shared photographs of the camera to confirm this with the author of this website. This camera was originally delivered to Cattaneo, Italy, on March 11, 1937.
In contrast, all cameras produced in 1938 and later, including the previously mentioned models, had rectangular frames264. Any earlier cameras that were upgraded after this design change received a rectangular frame as well264. According to Dr. Ludwig Günther Groebe's research, the earliest camera with rectangular frames might have had serial number 241001.
Code Names
Leica IIIb for body only was code-named ATOOH534.
Leica IIIb for body only was code-named LIGOO in the U.S.A534.
Leica IIIb and 5cm f/1.5 Xenon lens was code-named AMXOO264.
Leica IIIb and 5cm f/1.5 Xenon lens was code-named LOOBT in the U.S.A534.
Leica IIIb and 50mm f/2 Summar lens was code-named AZOOB264.
Leica IIIb and 50mm f/2 Summar lens was code-named LUDOO in the U.S.A534.
Leica IIIb and 5cm f/2.5 Hektor lens was code-named LEHEK in the U.S.A534.
Leica IIIb and 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens was code-named ARHOO264.
Leica IIIb and 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens was code-named LEYOO in the U.S.A534.
Leica IIIb and rifle and 135mm f/4.5 Hektor lens was code-named RIPBO264.
Leica IIIb and rifle and 200mm f/4.5 Telyt lens was code-named RITOO264.
Leica IIIb and rifle and 400mm f/5 Telyt lens was code-named RITEL264.
"N-L" or "S-T" Engraved Leica IIIb Cameras
Leica IIIb cameras could be found with the letters "N-L" or "S-T" engraved on the top cover, located between the "D.R.P." (Deutsches Reichspatent) and "Ernst Leitz" engravings291. The "S-T" marking stood for "Spécialités Tiranty," indicating official importation by Tiranty, the Leitz agent for France291. On the other hand, the "N-L" marking represented "Netherlands" ("Nederlande"), signifying official importation by Odin, the Leitz agent for the Netherlands291. In a letter received from Odin in 1979, it was confirmed that the "N-L" engraving was performed by Leitz in Wetzlar291. It was highly likely that Leitz also engraved the "S-T" marking291.
Compared to Other Models
The differentiation of the Leica IIIb from the Leica IIIa Model G primarily lied in the positioning of the rangefinder and viewfinder eyepieces264. This change resulted in a slight increase in the height of the housing by 1 mm264. Additionally, many experts highlight the relocation of the diopter adjustment lever, which moved from the rangefinder window to a position aligned with the rewind knob264. This adjustment was particularly beneficial in practical use because it eliminated the need to reset the lever after closing and reopening the film advance264.
Another change was that the new accessory shoe was now attached with four screws instead of three, making it more secure264. More importantly, two springs had been added, which replace the previous requirement for grooved holders264.
The new diopter level was now better sealed, and the viewfinder had been modified by adding prisms in its path264. This enhancement not only improved the overall viewing experience but also made the edges of the viewfinder appear sharper and more defined264.
It was important to note that ball bearings were already introduced in the Leica IIIb model; these were incorporated into both the shutter and film transport mechanisms264, 364.
Gifts and Special Cameras
Leica IIIb with serial number Betriebsk. Nr. 385 dated 1956 was sold for 3600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 1st Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 5, 2019428. The lot was described as "Internally delivered to Leitz designer Karl Clös on 03rd of August 1956. Shutter crate marked "240024" on bottomside - the only Leica IIIb from the initial batch (240001ff.) which was not delivered in 1937, but remained in the Factory. The only IIIb-syn camera we have ever seen. 
With Elmar 5 cm f/3.5 No. 770641. Blades clean, but diaphragm control sticky."428.
Leica IIIb number 336016 was considered a "NASA Leica"501. In 1941, Langley Research Center in Virginia acquired this camera for testing at NASA501. The camera was reportedly "disposed of" in 1980501. The camera had NASA in-house number engraved on the chromium strip at the rear of the housing501.
Leica IIIb without slow speed dial with serial number 339784 dated 1939 was referred to as "Leica IIb" in the auction catalog. It was sold for 2800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 3rd Wetzlar Camera Auction on October 9, 2021426. The lot was described as "Extremely unusual version of a Leica IIIb without slow speeds. This model is not mentioned either in contemporary catalogues or in collectors' literature to this day. Overall reasonable condition, with matching Elmar 5 cm f/3.5 No. 463000. Included: Lens cap, everready case."426.
The Leica IIIb camera with serial number 350000 was awarded in 1941 to Dr. Wilhelm Schneider, who was the co-inventor of Agfacolor film48. Unfortunately, this camera was lost, and he received a replacement: a Leica IIIc with serial number 400000364 in 1946264.
Military
Some cameras tied to military organizations were:
Leica IIIb number 283525 dating year 1938 is associated with the British Royal Air Force379. The bottom plate of the camera was engraved with the military arrow and the contract number "14A/1970"379. The camera was delivered to London on May 19, 1938379. The camera was sold for 6000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 44th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 10, 2024379.
Leica IIIb number 283595 dating year 1938 is associated with the British Royal Air Force386. It had military engravings of the Royal Air Force and special number '14A/1970'386. The camera was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 37th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 21, 2020386. Before that, it was sold for 2280 Euros including buyer's premium at the 27th WestLicht Camera Auction on June 13, 2015396.
Leica IIIb number 284259 dating year 1938 is associated with the German Marine384. The camera was sold for 132000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 39th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 20, 2021384. The lot had the following description: "a beautiful Leica IIIb body engraved on the top plate with Reichsadler and 'M' (Marine), with matching 1938 chrome Summar 2/5cm no.449698 (engraved with Reichsadler), very rare rapid winder SCNOO engraved with large M for Marine, also rare EPZOO leather case for the camera with rapid winder attached (stamped on the back with Reichsadler and M!), inside of the case we've found a small owner's note: 'OBtsm Rudolf Mühlbauer 27. März 1945' (OBtsm - Oberbootsmann was a higher military rank at German Navy). It is for sure one of the best military Leica outfits we have seen!"384.
Leica IIIb number 288350 dated 1938, is associated with German Army392. The camera was sold for 1200 Euros including buyer's premium at the 31st WestLicht Camera Auction on June 10, 2017392. The camera was stamped with "Reichsadler" on the top plate392. Before that, the camera was offered but remained unsold at the 29th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 6, 2016394.
A mysterious Leica IIIb number 289722K was identified as "Leica IIIB Paratrooper issue" and dated 1938-1939, waspart of Charles M. Messer collection, located in The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio496.
Leica IIIb number 294388 dating year 1939 with "Fl. No. 38078" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" marking in the following style: Small, delicate letters on vulcanite225.
Leica IIIb number 323127 was mentioned on page 102 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera was associated with British military and has "H.M. Govt." (His Majesty's Government) engraved on it540.
Leica IIIb number 323852 was illustrated on page 37 of Dennis Laney's "Leica Collector’s Guide (2nd Edition)" book534. The camera featured "R.AERONAUTICA" engraving filled in red534. This camera was auctioned off at Christie's at some point in time534.
Leica IIIb number 326389 was mentioned on page 102 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera is associated with British military and has "W.D." (War Department) engraved on it540.
Leica IIIb number 331565 dating year 1939 was associated with the British Royal Navy378. The camera has "PATT 8665" engraving on the top plate and was used by the Navy during World War II378. The camera was sold for 12000 Euros including buyer's premium at the 45th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 23, 2024378.
Leica IIIb number 333709 and dated 1939 was illustrated on page 102 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited to "Messer photo"540. The camera was associated with British military and has "A arrow-up M" engraved on the top plate, and "AIR MINISTRY PROPERTY" on the bottom of the baseplate540. "A M" stood for "AIR MINISTRY"540.
Leica IIIb number 333713 and dated 1939 was illustrated on page 88 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera was engraved with "HEER EIGENTUM" marking on the vulcanite on the rear of the camera540.
Leica IIIb number 335426 was associated with the British Royal Air Force and featured "19A/1970" engraved on the top plate365. It was known that a percentage of the Leica cameras used by the British Armed Forces were requisitioned at the start of World War II, either from the stock of Ernst Leitz in London or from camera retailers in London365. This camera wasillustrated on page 102 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited to "Messer photo"540. The photograph of this camera was featured on page 38 of Dennis Laney's "Leica Collector’s Guide (2nd Edition)" book534.
Leica IIIb number 336563 was associated with German Kriegsmarine389. The camera was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 34th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 8, 2019389. The lot had the following description: "IIIb chrome engraved with a Reichsadler and swastika + M, red shutter, inclusive a Summar 2/5cm no.526051 engraved with Reichsadler and 'W.haven' (Wilhelmshaven - the naval port of the Kriegsmarine during WWII), SCNOO winder and lens cap"389.
Leica IIIb number 339689 was a military camera with "Heer" engraved on the top plate386. This camera was originally delivered to Berlin on December 15, 1939386. The camera was sold for 8400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 37th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 21, 2020386.
Leica IIIb number 339814 and dated 1940 was illustrated on page 103 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The photograph was credited to "Zucco photo"540. The camera is associated with Italian military and has "R.AERONAUTICA" engraved on the top plate540. "A M" stands for "AIR MINISTRY"540. "R.AERONAUTICA" stands for "Regia Aeronautica (Royal Air Force)"540.
Leica IIIb number 345640 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345641 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345642 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345643 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345644 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345645 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345646 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345647 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345648 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345649 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345650 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345676 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345677 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345678 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345679 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345680 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345681 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345682 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345683 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345684 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345685 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345686 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345687 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345688 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345689 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345690 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345691 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345692 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345693 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345694 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345695 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345696 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345697 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345698 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345699 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 345700 was delivered to Luftwaffe on January 22, 1940, shipment number 7384245.
Leica IIIb number 346401 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346402 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346403 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346404 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346405 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346406 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346407 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346408 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346409 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346501 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346502 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346503 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346504 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346505 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346506 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346507 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245. It was sold for 660 Euros including buyer's premium at the 10th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 18, 2006414. The lot was described as "original Luftwaffen-camera in perfect working condition, top plate engraved: Fl.No 38079, synchronised..."414.
Leica IIIb number 346508 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346509 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346510 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346511 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346512 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346513 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346514 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346515 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346516 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346517 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346518 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346519 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346520 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346521 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346522 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346523 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346524 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346525 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346526 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346527 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346528 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346529 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346530 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346531 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346532 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346533 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346534 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346535 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346536 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346537 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346538 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346539 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346540 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346541 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346542 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346543 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346544 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346545 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346546 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346547 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346548 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346549 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346550 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346551 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346552 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346553 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346554 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346555 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346556 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346557 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346558 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346559 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346560 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346561 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346562 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346563 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346564 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346565 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346566 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346567 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346568 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346569 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346570 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346571 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346572 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346573 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346574 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346575 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346576 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346577 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245. It was was offered but remained unsold at the 15th WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2009409. The lot was described as "original military IIIb (engraved: Fl.No38079, Luftwaffen-Eigentum markings on rear leather defaced), ..., synchronised, Elmar 3.5/5cm no.647403 (no military engravings), case"409.
Leica IIIb number 346578 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346579 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346580 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346581 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346582 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite364. It was delivered to Luftwaffe Berlin on February 10, 1940 (shipment number 9008)396. The camera was sold for 1560 Euros including buyer's premium at the 27th WestLicht Camera Auction on June 13, 2015396.
Leica IIIb number 346583 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346584 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346585 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9017245. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 22nd WestLicht Camera Auction on November 24, 2012402.
Leica IIIb number 346586 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346587 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346588 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346589 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346590 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 7, 1940, shipment number 8317245.
Leica IIIb number 346591 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346592 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346593 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346594 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346595 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346596 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346597 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346598 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245. This chrome finished camera has "Fl. No. 38079" engraving and had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Heavy, bold letters on vulcanite225. This camera was illustrated on page 75 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540.
Leica IIIb number 346599 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346600 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 10, 1940, shipment number 9008245.
Leica IIIb number 346601 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346602 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346603 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346604 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346605 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346606 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245. This camera had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" stamped on the vulcanite364.
Leica IIIb number 346607 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346608 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346609 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346610 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346611 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346612 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346613 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346614 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346615 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346616 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346617 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346618 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346619 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346620 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346621 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346622 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346623 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346624 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346625 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346626 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346627 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346628 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346629 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346630 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346631 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346632 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346633 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346634 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346635 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346636 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346637 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346638 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346639 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346640 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346641 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346642 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346643 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346644 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346645 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346646 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346647 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346648 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346649 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346650 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346651 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346652 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346653 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346654 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346655 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346656 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346657 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346658 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346659 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346660 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346661 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346662 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346663 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346664 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346665 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346666 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346667 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346668 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346669 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346670 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346671 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346672 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346673 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346674 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 24th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 23, 2013400. The lot was described as "extremely rare pair of two cameras with consecutive serial numbers (346674 + 346675), both in good original condition, stamped 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum' on rear, engraved 'Fl.No.38079' on top plate, camera no.346674 with Elmar 3.5/5cm no.546482 engraved 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum', camera no.346675 with Elmar 3.5/5cm no.534915 (caps) - both cameras were shipped on the same day (February 26th, 1940) with the same delivery number 7989 to Luftwaffe Bln. (also Elmar 3.5/5cm no.534915), Elmar 3.5/5cm no.546482 was shipped to Luftw.Bln. on January 16th, 1941."400.
Leica IIIb number 346675 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite. The camera was offered but remained unsold at the 24th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 23, 2013400. The lot was described as "extremely rare pair of two cameras with consecutive serial numbers (346674 + 346675), both in good original condition, stamped 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum' on rear, engraved 'Fl.No.38079' on top plate, camera no.346674 with Elmar 3.5/5cm no.546482 engraved 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum', camera no.346675 with Elmar 3.5/5cm no.534915 (caps) - both cameras were shipped on the same day (February 26th, 1940) with the same delivery number 7989 to Luftwaffe Bln. (also Elmar 3.5/5cm no.534915), Elmar 3.5/5cm no.546482 was shipped to Luftw.Bln. on January 16th, 1941."400.
Leica IIIb number 346676 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346677 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346678 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346679 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346680 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346681 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346682 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346683 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346684 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346685 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346686 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346687 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346688 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346689 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346690 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346691 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346692 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346693 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346694 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346695 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346696 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346697 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346698 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346699 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the grey vulcanite364. The camera was delivered to Luftwaffe in Berlin on February 26th, 1940364 (delivery number 7989)397. The camera was sold for 2400 Euros including buyer's premium at the 26th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 22, 2014397.
Leica IIIb number 346700 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346701 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346702 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346703 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346704 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346705 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346706 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346707 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346708 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346709 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346710 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite. The camera was sold for 1440 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404. The lot was described as "IIIb for the German Army, the top-plate engraved 'FL No.38079', back leather marked Luftwaffen-Eigentum, delivered to BLN Berlin on February 26th 1940 (delivery number 7989) - IIIb Luftwaffen-cameras are much rarer than IIIc"404.
Leica IIIb number 346711 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346712 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346713 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346714 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346715 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346716 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346717 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346718 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346719 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346720 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346721 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346722 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346723 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346724 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346725 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346726 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346727 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346728 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346729 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346730 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346731 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346732 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346733 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346734 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346735 dated 1939 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite364. The camera was sold for 1800 Euros including buyer's premium at the 21st WestLicht Camera Auction on May 12, 2012403. The lot was described as "IIIb for German Army, the top-plate engraved 'FL No.38079', delivered to BLN Berlin on February 26th 1940 (delivery number 7989)"403. Before that, the camera was sold for 1560 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404.
Leica IIIb number 346736 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346737 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346738 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346739 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346740 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346741 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346742 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346743 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346744 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346745 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346746 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346747 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346748 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346749 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346750 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346751 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb camera number 346752 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite364. The camera was delivered to Berlin as LEYOO on February 26th, 1940 as a part of delivery number 7989364. The camera was sold for 3840 Euros including buyer's premium at the 23rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 25, 2013401.
Leica IIIb number 346753 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346754 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346755 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346756 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346757 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346758 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346759 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346760 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346761 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 346762 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245.
Leica IIIb number 347001 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347002 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245. It had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite364. The camera was sold for 1560 Euros including buyer's premium at the 32nd WestLicht Camera Auction on March 10, 2018391. Before that, the camera was sold for 1440 Euros including buyer's premium at the 25th WestLicht Camera Auction on March 22, 2014398.
Leica IIIb number 347003 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347004 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347005 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347006 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347007 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347008 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347009 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347010 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347011 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347012 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347013 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347014 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347015 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347016 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347017 was delivered to Luftwaffe on February 26, 1940, shipment number 7989245
Leica IIIb number 347701 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347702 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347703 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347704 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347705 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347706 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347707 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347708 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347709 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347710 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245. The camera was sold for 780 Euros including buyer's premium at the 22nd WestLicht Camera Auction on November 24, 2012402. The lot was described as "original military IIIb (engraved 'Fl.No38079', 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum' markings on rear leather defaced),... Summar 2/5cm no.445968 (cap, case)"402.
Leica IIIb number 347711 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347712 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347713 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347714 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347715 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347716 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 347717 was delivered to Luftwaffe on March 6, 1940, shipment number 9004245
Leica IIIb number 348147 in chrome finish had swastika and "Fl. No. 38079" engraved on its top plate and was believed to be associated with the Kriegsmarine (German Navy)569. In 1995, the camera was part of Kenjiro Nakamura's collection and was exhibited at the "History and Development of Imaging" exhibition at the Memorial Museum of the Machine Industry569. 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.
Leica IIIb number 348451 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348452 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245. This camera had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite384. The camera was sold for 9600 Euros including buyer's premium at the 39th Leitz Photographica Auction on November 20, 2021384. The lot had the following description: "an original, very rare original Luftwaffen Leica IIIb, including an original 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum' Elmar 3.5/5cm no.534884, 2-speed MOOLY Leica-Motor no.481, rare EWOON case for the camera with attached motor, everything in excellent cosmetic condition and working order... the lens was delivered on 03.02.1942"384.
Leica IIIb number 348453 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348454 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb camera (chrome finish) with serial number 348455 had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite364. The camera was delivered to Berlin on April 6th, 1940 as a part of delivery number 9117364. The camera was sold for 2640 Euros including buyer's premium at the 20th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 12, 2011404. The lot was described as "very rare German military camera in fine condition (synchronized), engraved 'Fl.No38079' on top-plate, stamped 'Luftwaffen-Eigentum' on the vulcanite (delivered to BLN. April 6th, 1940, delivery no.9117), Elmar 3.5/5cm no.574413 (delivered to BLN. January 2nd, 1942, delivery no.29326)"404.
Leica IIIb number 348456 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348457 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348458 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348459 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348460 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348461 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348462 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348463 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348464 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348465 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348466 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348467 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348468 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348469 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348470 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348471 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348472 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348473 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348474 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348475 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348476 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348477 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348478 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348479 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348480 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348481 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348482 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348483 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348484 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348485 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 348486 was delivered to Luftwaffe on April 6, 1940, shipment number 9117245.
Leica IIIb number 350066 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 17, 1940, shipment number 9606245.
Leica IIIb number 350201 dated 1940 had "W.H." engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving394. The camera was sold for 780 Euros including buyer's premium at the 29th WestLicht Camera Auction on November 6, 2016394.
Leica IIIb number 350514 and dated 1940 was illustrated on page 88 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The camera was engraved with "Heer" marking under "Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" on the top plate540.
Leica IIIb number 350701 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350702 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350703 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350704 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350705 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350706 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350707 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350708 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350709 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350710 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350711 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350712 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245. This camera had had "Fl. No. 38079" engraving on the top plate under "Leica D.R.P Ernst Leitz Wetzlar" engraving, as well as "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") stamped on the vulcanite383. The camera was sold for 4560 Euros including buyer's premium at the 40th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 11, 2022383.
Leica IIIb number 350713 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350714 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350715 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350716 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 350717 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 7, 1940, shipment number 9006245.
Leica IIIb number 351301 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351302 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351303 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351304 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351305 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351306 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351307 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351308 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351309 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351310 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351311 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351312 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351313 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351314 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351315 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 4, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351316 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351317 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351318 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351319 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351320 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351326 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351327 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351328 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351329 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351330 was delivered to Luftwaffe on May 25, 1940, shipment number 9468245.
Leica IIIb number 351331 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 2, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351332 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 2, 1940, shipment number 9281245.
Leica IIIb number 351419 was delivered to Luftwaffe on June 17, 1940, with shipment number 9606245.
Deliveries
In 1938, there were 11700 Leica IIIb cameras delivered, with serial numbers ranging from 240001 through 290200364. In 1939, there were 15303 Leica IIIb cameras delivered, with serial numbers ranging from 294001 through 348500364. In 1940, there were 2951 Leica IIIb cameras delivered, with serial numbers ranging from 348466 through 352000364. 1946 marked the last year of deliveries, with 600 Leica IIIb cameras delivered, with serial numbers ranging from 354401 through 355000364.
Germany had been at war since September 1939, and the United States did not officially enter World War II until December 1941262. The last deliveries of Leica cameras, specifically the Leica IIIb, to the American market occurred in June 1940262. Deliveries of Leica cameras were not made to the United States, England, Australia, or New Zealand during World War II262.
Closing Remarks
Leica IIIb went out of production in 1946 with serial number 355000 ( or 368563534), with 30754 cameras produced364.