5 Leica I Model A LUXUS.jpg

LEICA LUXUS

Dull Gilt Finished Theatre Glasses from 1922

The 3 x 13.5 BINAR and the 4 x 16 BITUR theatre glasses had been available since 1922, featuring a dull gilt finish with a coloured lizard skin covering534. These models remained in the catalog, labeled as having a "Luxus" finish, until 1939534. The Luxus 3 x 13.5 glasses were marketed alongside the Leica Luxus534, a camera that featured metal parts, including a gold-finished lens and lizard skin backing548, leading collectors to assume they were designed to complement the Leica Luxus534. In reality, while the Leica Luxus camera aimed to target the same luxury market, it did not appear to have been very successful534. Either way, contrary to popular belief, the Luxus-type finish was not a new concept for Leitz at the time of the introduction of Leica Luxus cameras in 1929534. 


Leica Luxus Cameras 

In 1929, Leitz released a limited number of fixed-lens Leica cameras known as the Leica Luxus548. These cameras were code-named LELUX to distinguish it from the standard-finish Leica models548. A source from June of 1930 also confirmed production of "luxury cameras with gold-plated parts and suede-covered housings"364. Notably, this model was included among the options in the price list referenced by 1931149. 


Quantity

The official Leitz lists did not provide accurate information about the number of Leica Luxus cameras produced, the serial numbers assigned to them, or the colours selected for each camera548. Thus, the number of total Leica Luxus cameras produced was heavily disputed among different writers. Among some opinions were:

  • The accepted total production of Leica Luxus cameras was only 95534. These cameras were made in small batches, with serial numbers ranging from 28692 (manufactured in 1929) to 68834 (manufactured in 1930)534. 
  • The first batch consisted of nine cameras, and their serial numbers ranged from 28692 to 28700548. 
  • For years experts cited548 that Leica I Model A in Leica Luxus variant were produced in October 1929181 in Wetzlar, with a total of 15 gold-plated units manufactured2 numbered from 34803 to 34817548. 
  • In total, 87 Leica Luxus cameras were documented at Wetzlar, with small batches being produced based on demand during the manufacturing run of the Leica I Model A365.
  • Total production figure could have been around 115 cameras534.
  • Out of 94 Leica Luxus cameras, only 56 were delivered with a single entry in the records153. The remaining 38 cameras were listed with multiple delivery entries153. However, this did not necessarily imply that additional cameras were not delivered multiple times, as there were instances of duplicates recorded as having single deliveries153.

 

Additional Notes About LUXUS Cameras

  • The gilding and special leatherwork on the Leica Luxus cameras were likely outsourced to a workshop specializing in luxury goods534. This might have explained why there seemed to be more genuine Leica Luxus cameras in existence than factory records indicated534. Individual units were sent out for customization as orders trickled in from dealers, and not all of these may have been documented as special editions534. 
  • In the delivery documentation, certain Leica Luxus were designated as demonstration models, while others were specifically allocated for the Leipzig Trade Fair149. However, it was likely that customer interest became apparent, leading Leitz to eventually incorporate these models into their official price list149. If the production of the Leica Luxus cameras indeed preceded the publication of the price lists, it supported the notion that these units were not originally intended for commercial sale149. Furthermore, it was possible that a greater number of cameras were returned to the factory than was reflected in the records of the delivery book149. 
  • The camera was more popular at exhibitions than in actual sales181.
  • Interestingly, the first two batches of Leica Luxus cameras were delivered prior to the issuance of lower serial numbers for Leica Standard Model E cameras149. 
  • The entire batch identified by serial numbers 34803 to 34818 was not manufactured exclusively in 1930; several cameras within this range were produced in 1929149. This discrepancy implied that serial numbers might have been allocated in advance of the actual production dates149.
  • Two batches of cameras, with serial numbers spanning from 28692 to 28700 and from 34803 to 34818, displayed a mixed assembly of components149. Notably, both batches contained a mix of four- and six-screw bodies149. Additionally, some units incorporated parts that originated from an earlier generation of Leica cameras149.
  • According to the Leitz production records for 1931, four Leica I Model A cameras were made in 1930 with crocodile coverings: the first two were brown, the third was green, and the last was black360.
  • In total, five cameras dispatched to the Schmidt Tokyo agency were sold on a single invoice, suggesting their intended use as demonstration models153. Some of these five cameras recorded multiple deliveries153. A similar case applied to the six cameras delivered to New York, which were also documented in a single invoice; however, only one of these cameras had more than one delivery recorded153.



Codewords

There were 2 known codewords for Leica Luxus cameras:

  • LELUX was a codeword for a camera with a dull gilt body, covered in coloured lizard skin, one roll film chamber91, and a case of coloured crocodile leather with a handle534.
  • LESSALUX was a codeword for the outfit that consisted of camera, a gold-finish FODIS rangefinder, a gold cap, and a special carrying case made of lizard skin that was dyed to match the camera's finish, available in red, green, blue, or brown548. The camera included three roll film chambers and had a coloured crocodile leather case styled like the ETRIN leather outfit case, completed with a handle91. 



Leica I Model A number 9781 had an unusually early serial number365. Contrary to popular belief, this camera was a reproduction of LUXUS created for the museum in Solms, which was why its serial number fell outside of normally accepted range534. According to Theo Kisselbach, "This camera has not always been a Luxus. It is an updated model A Leica, redone by Leitz as Luxus"91. Before 1979, the camera was featured on the cover of the French Zoom magazine (Leica Story) and illustrated in Rogliatti book91. Dr. Wolfgang Netolitzky witnessed the rearrangement of The Leica Tree in the Leitz Wetzlar Leica Museum in or before 197991. The camera was modified to incorporate "depth of field scale, high letter engraving of the Elmar front ring, high wind knob" and was missing mushroom release button91.


Some Known LUXUS Cameras


Leica I Model A number 28692 was the very first Leica Luxus made, according to Hahne list402. The camera had gold plated metal parts and lizard skin body402. It was originally delivered without FODIS rangefinder on December 11, 1929 to an undisclosed location153. At some point before 2005, it belonged to James A. Collins Jr (see p.39 4/2005 of Leica Fotografie International). In 2005, it was featured in advertisement for Everard & Company's auction hosted online on iGavel.com (see p.39 4/2005 of Leica Fotografie International). Later, on November 24, 2012, it was auctioned off at Westlicht Auction402. 

Camera number 28693 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder on October 12, 1929 and January 14, 1930 to Cologne, Germany153. The camera was used for demonstration purposes153.

Camera number 28694 was likely used for demonstration purposes153. This camera was delivered to six distinct destinations within a year of its initial release149, as following:

  • on November 14, 1929 as LUXUS to Pill?&Albert?153
  • on February 21, 1930 as LUXUS to Kleinbrolz, Cologne, Germany153
  • on July 8, 1930 as LUXUS to Cologne, Germany153
  • on July 31, 1930 as LUXUS153
  • on September 5, 1930 as LUXUS to Muller, Konstanz, Germany153
  • on September 20, 1930 as LESSALUX to Lutz Ferrando153. 

Camera number 28695 was a Leica I Model A LUXUS540 used for demonstration purposes153. It was originally delivered on November 26, 1931153. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 32 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. James L. Lager dated this camera 1929540.

Camera number 28696 was delivered with golden FODIS rangefinder to Schaja in Munich, Germany on December 12, 1929153. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 27 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540.

Camera number 28697 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder on December 20, 1929, and on June 14, 1930153. 

Camera number 28698 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on December 12, 1929, to Schaja in Munich, Germany153.

Camera number 28699 was used for demonstration purposes153. It was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on December 9, 1929, to Schaja in Munich, Germany, then on 12th date of an unclear month of 1930 to Anton Baumann, then on March 11, 1930 to Berlin and on September 3, 1930 to L?oep? in Stuttgart, Germany153.

Camera number 28700 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on November 4, 1929, to Stuttgart, Germany and on August 14, 1931153.

Camera number 28701 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on December 19, 1929, to Leitz153. The camera was likely used for demonstration purposes153.

Camera number 29074 was a Leica I Model A, Luxus Gold-plated with Elmar f=50mm 1:3.5 screw mount lens496. This camera was part of Charles M. Messer collection, located in The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio496.

The Leica II Model D Luxus "Leih-Kamera" camera number 34416 was one of only four Leica II Model Luxus cameras391. The camera was gold-plated and had brown reptile body-cover391. The camera was delivered to "Baumann Reisemuster" (Travelling Sample for Salesman Baumann) on March 4th, 1930 as Leica I Model A and converted 1932 into Leica II Model D Luxus engraved on the rear 'Leih-Camera (Loan Camera)'391. It was auctioned off at WestLicht Auction in 2018391.

Camera number 34803 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on <hard-to-read> date to a <hard-to-read> location and on January 4, 1930 to Neller & Wolfram, Cologne, Germany153.

Camera number 34804 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on December 17, 1929, to Leitz, Berlin, Germany153.

Camera number 34805 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on January 18, 1930, to Sohmisz, Vienna, Austria153.

Camera number 34806 was likely used for demonstration purposes153. It was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on January 1?, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location in Cologne, Germany, then on February 13, 1930 to Berlin, then on April 2, 1930 to Muller, Cologne, then on May 9, 1930 to Tiranty, Paris153. 

Camera number 34807 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on January 16, 1930, to Strubin, Basel, Switzerland153.

Camera number 34808 was a Leica I Model A Luxus camera533. The camera was used for demonstration purposes153. It was originally delivered without FODIS rangefinder153, on December 19, 1929 to Essen533, then on January 13, 1930 to Anton Baumann (marked ‘Reisemuster’—travelling sample)533, then on April 10, 1930 to Walbracht153 Ellerfeld in Germany533, then on July 16, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location, then on September 9, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location and then on September 17, 1930 to Perrot, Biel, Switzerland153. This camera auctioned off at Leitz Photographica Auction in November of 2025, together with Leitz 3x20 'Luxus' binoculars, gold-plated Leitz FINOT cable release, and a FOFER-LUXUS gold-plated rangefinder.533.

Camera number 34809  was a Leica II Model D LUXUS that was converted from a 1930 Leica I Model A540. Shinichi Nakamura also believed that the camera was Leica I Model A to Leica II Model D, and was gold-plated at that time602. It  was likely used for demonstration purposes and  delivered on December 21, 1929 to a <hard-to-read> location in Cologne, Germany, then on June 4, 1930 to a <hard-to-read>location, then on August 21,1930 to Schmidt, Tokyo, Japan153 . This camera belonged to the owner of the Kawahara Camera Shop, located in Osaka, Japan, before World War II. It was sold to another individual at that time, and later, repurchased by the owner of the Kawahara Camera Shop602. The camera was in the collection of the Kawahara Camera Shop in 1991602.  The photograph of this camera appeared on page 32 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition " book540 . The photograph was credited "Kawahara photo "540 . It was illustrated on pages 14 and 15 of Shinichi Nakamura's "Leica Collection" (1991) book602.


Camera number 34810 was Leica I Model A LUXUS428 that was likely used for demonstration purposes153. It was delivered without FODIS rangefinder to the following destinations:

  • on December 20, 1929 to Cologne as LUXUS without FODIS rangefinder428
  • on January 7, 1930 to Berlin as LUXUS153,
  • on 3rd of <hard-to-read> month of 1930 to an undisclosed location as LUXUS, 
  • on November 26, 1930 to Schmidt, Shanghai as LESSALUX with FODIS rangefinder428 
  • finally on August 16, 1932 to an undisclosed location153. 


This camera was auctioned off at Wetzlar Camera Auction in October of 2019428. The lot was described as "...recently discovered...Body covering of brown lizard skin. Rear cover screw of the adjustment opening in black. Engraving "Leih-Kamera (loaner camera)" on backside. With matching original gold-plated FODIS rangefinder."428.

Camera number 34811 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on December 19, 1929, to Porzt, Nurnberg153. 

Camera number 34812 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on December 19, 1929, to a <hard-to-read> location and on January 29, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location153. 

Camera number 34813 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on June 14, 1930, to Temkin, Warsaw, Poland153. It was illustrated on the Page 19 of the "Classic Camera" magazine Issue 8 from November 1998 and described as "...belonging to the second batch of 16 cameras, n°s 34803 to 34818...The rear view of this Luxus shows that even the metal disc covering the hole for perfect focusing of the lens was gold plated. Unfortunately, the gilt FODIS, which certainly equipped this Leica is missing, as is the small ring which goes over the shutter release. The lizard skin cladding appears black, but in this example was actually a very nice shade of dark blue...".

Camera number 34814 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on January 31, 1930 to Cologne, Germany153. This camera was part of Charles M. Messer collection, located in The Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio496.

Camera number 34815 was delivered on July 28, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location in Warsaw, Poland, then on December 24 of an unknown year to an undisclosed location with golden FODIS rangefinder, then on June 10, 1943 as "rot" (red) to a <hard-to-read> location153.

Camera number 34816 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on March 4, 1930, to Anton Baumann (Sales representative)153. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 28 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. This camera existed in one more iteration - the Leica II Model D LUXUS number 34816153. This Leica II Model D LUXUS camera was part of a prominent Hong Kongese collection in September of 2026.

Camera number 34817 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on January 29, 1930 to Berlin, then on June 4, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location, then on August 21, 1930 to Schmidt, Tokyo, Japan153. The camera was likely used for demonstration purposes153. 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). It was illustrated in the 1979 Kazuo Nakagawa's "Leica History" (Reprint, 1994) book.

Camera number 34818 was delivered on August 21, 1930 to Schmidt, Tokyo, Japan153.

Camera number 35000 was typical in every way except for its lizard skin cover365.

Camera number 37134 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on April 2, 1930, to Reinhardt, Hugin153. 

Camera number 37135 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on April 2, 1930, to Schaja in Munich, Germany153.

Camera number 37136 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on April 2, 1930, to Schaja in Munich, Germany153.

Camera number 37137 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on April 2, 1930, to Schaja in Munich, Germany153.

Camera number 37138 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on May 30, 1930, to Prague153.

Camera number 37251 was delivered with golden FODIS rangefinder, on June 4, 1930, to a <hard-to-read> location and on November 3, 1932 to an undisclosed location153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37253 was delivered with golden FODIS rangefinder, on January 19, 1930, to Leitz, Berlin and on March 25, 1930 to Warsaw153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37254 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on June 17, 1930, to a <hard-to-read> location and on August 21, 1930 to Schmidt, Tokyo, Japan153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37255 was delivered on June 6, 1930, to Berlin and then on October 6, 1930 to Perrot Biel153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37256 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on March 4, 1930, to E.H. Berlin153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37257 was originally a Leica I Model A that was converted to Leica I Model C LUXUS400. It was delivered without FODIS rangefinder, on March 13, 1930, to Berlin153 with delivery number 02358400. It was auctioned off at WestLicht Auction in November of 2013400. The lot was described as "...With gold plated metal parts and red lizard skin body, it was never restored and has the typical and original patina...The camera was inspected and authorised by James Lager, Ottmar Michaely and Lars Netopil."400. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37258 was delivered as LESSALUX on March 24, 1930 to Perrot, Biel, then on 15th of an unknown month of 1931 to a <hard-to-read> location, and finally on November 11, 1932 to a <hard-to-read> location153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37259 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder on March 18, 1930, to Vienna, then on September 9, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location and then finally on September 29, 1930 to Lutz Ferrando153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

The camera number 37260 camera was auctioned off at Bonhams auction in November of 2013. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37261 was delivered without a FODIS rangefinder on March 17, 1930 to Berlin and noted as being shipped as "green" to Berlin on July 2, 1930153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37262 was a Leica I Model A Luxus camera that was illustrated on Lars Netopil Classic Cameras Facebook page in 2013. This camera was illustrated in Mr. Lars Netopil's "Rare Leica" book in 2014594. The camera had strap lugs594.

Camera number 37265 was delivered on August 7, 1930 to Perrot Biel153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. It was auctioned off at Christie's, London, UK on June 17, 1999.

Camera number 37266 was delivered to a <hard-to-read> location on October 10, 1930 and then as "brown" to Willacuez, Coburg, Germany on February 18, 1932153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37267 was delivered multiple times as follows:

  • to Schroder Boun on March 31, 1930 as LUXUS LEICA (likely LEICA outfit)
  • on June 4, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location as LUXUS LEICA (likely LEICA outfit),
  • on an undisclosed date as LESSALUX to a <hard-to-read> location153.

This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37268 was delivered as LESSALUX on March 23, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location, then on June 3, 1943 to a <hard-to-read> location153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37270 was delivered as LUXUS to Perrot Biel on August 7, 1930153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37271 was delivered as LUXUS to Muller in a <hard-to-read> location on December 5, 1930 as "red"153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37272 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder to Berlin on March 25, 1930 as LUXUS and on February 9, 1931 as LESSALUX to an undisclosed location153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37274 was delivered as LESSALUX to Schmidt, Shanghai on November 20, 1930153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. It was displayed in Yodobashi Fujisawa Camera Museum in Tokyo, Japan in August of 2026.

Camera number 37275 was delivered as LUXUS to Schmidt, Tokyo on August 21, 1930153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37276 was designated as LUXUS and (Abt)153. It was delivered as LUXUS LEICA (likely LEICA outfit) on May 10, 1930 to a <hard-to-read> location in Dusseldorf, then on October 14,1930 to an undisclosed location then on April 13, 1933 to (Abt) Barnack (signed)153. This camera was owned by Barnack himself153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37277 existed in 2 iterations153,540:

  • one was a Leica I Model C LUXUS153. It was delivered as "green" to Schmidt, Vienna on May 14, 1930153. The lens featured an infinity catch and was marked with a small "O" indicating compliance with standardization protocols153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. The Leitz archives contained a photograph of this camera153. The photograph of this camera also appeared on pages 28 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. A camera with this serial number was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.
  • the other one was a the Leica I Model A LUXUS number 37277, dated 1930540. The photograph of this camera, together with FODIS and a red case, appeared on page 30 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. The outfit that this camera was part of included a gold-plated Stereoly number 1002541. The photograph of the stereo outfit appeared on page 30 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. Thurman F. (Jack) Naylor's article in the "STEREO WORLD" magazine featured photographs of this outfit on pages 16 and 18541. Thurman F. (Jack) Naylor stated that it originally came with a gold Stereoly number 1002, a gold rangefinder, along with a red leather pouch featuring gold trim (with the word "Leitz" embossed on one side, and the "Leica" on the other side), brown leather case for Stereoly, and a gold lens cap541. According to Thurman F. (Jack) Naylor, he had to wait 12 years (1978-1990) to acquire the camera from behind the Iron Curtain541. Before coming into Thurman F. (Jack) Naylor's possession, the camera belonged to the father of Mr. Kramer's (engineer of a Stuttgart company) uncle, who lived in Dresden, Germany541. Mr. Kramer initially described the camera as a "red and gold Leica for stereo photographs"541. The original owner was an important German political figure and his son (Mr. Kramer's uncle), had also been involved in government541. The camera survived the post World War II period in the "pre-war, brown tin cookie box" that "had been kept in the chimney of the unused kitchen fireplace"541. The camera was kept alongside other memorabilia of the father of Mr. Kramer's uncle, including a pipe with gold fittings, three gold watches, several medals, and a few official-looking documents541. The camera was displayed in Thurman F. (Jack) Naylor's private museum in 1992541. A camera with this camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37278 was delivered as LUXUS LEICA (likely LEICA outfit) on August 21, 1930 to Schmidt, Tokyo153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37279 was as LUXUS delivered to Simge, Sydney on May 20, 1930153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 37282 was as LESSALUX delivered to Pasek, Sanislawow on September 25, 1930153. This camera might have undergone frequent upgrades, and it was suspected that it might have been duplicated to maintain alignment with advancements in interchangeable lens technology153. 

Camera number 37571 was illustrated on the Page 0 of the "Classic Camera" magazine Issue 13 from February 1999548. It was described as "... complete with original separate rangefinder, original case, authenticated by Theo Kisselbach and part of an Italian collection. Recently sold to another Italian collector by the Milan Osservatorio...Photo G. De Bellis"548. On page 6 and 7, camera reappeared under caption "When the camera in question is famous for having been published in books and periodicals, following its vicissitudes can prove even more interesting. This was the case with the news of the sale of Leica Luxus no. 37571 published by Michel Auer, complete with original separate rangefinder, original carrying case and original Leitz box and part of an Italian collection. The camera was recently sold by the Milan Osservatorio to another Italian collector struck by the perfect condition of the camera in 100% working condition who did not hesitate to pay the sum required to own such a noteworthy and sought-after piece."548. It was sold for 100 million Italian Lire548. The Leica Luxus 37571 was accompanied by a May 1975 statement of authenticity from noted expert Theo Kisselbach548. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. 

Camera number 38632 is designated as LUXUS153. It came with no FODIS rangefinder153. It was delivered to an unclear address in Stockholm on April 24, 1930153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 38641 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder to a <hard-to-read> location on April 29, 1930153. The photograph of the stereo outfit appeared on page 31 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. Interestingly, the photograph featured golden FODIS rangefinder (originally not shipped with this camera153), brown case and lens engraved 641540. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 38642 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder to a <hard-to-read> location on June 4, 1930153.

Camera number 38675 was delivered without FODIS rangefinder to a <hard-to-read> location on April 26, 1930 and to a <hard-to-read> location on April 13, 1930153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48401 was delivered as "Near focusing / Red" LESSALUX to New York City on October 31, 1930153 on order number 1338320. The photograph of this camera, credited to "Wittstein Photo", appeared on page 26 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. The camera was described Dr. Wolfgang Netolitzky as "equipped with a close focusing Elmar lens 3,5/50 mm, focusing to 1 ½ feet. (The 11 o'clock screw of the lens is turned 180 degrees wrong..."91. In October of 2025, the camera was displayed in Yodobashi Fujisawa Camera Museum in Tokyo, Japan. 

The Leica I Model A LUXUS number 48402 was delivered as "Near focusing" LESSALUX to New York City on October 31, 1930153 on order number 1338320. The camera was purchased in 1975-1976 by Roger Pelham in Florida320. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. This camera was auctioned off at Leitz Photographica Auction on June 12, 2021385. 

Camera number 48403 was delivered as LESSALUX to New York City on October 31, 1930153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48404 was delivered as LUXUS 2.5 with 50mm f/2.5 Hektor lens attached to a <hard-to-read> location on November 30, 1930153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. There appeared to be 2 cameras with this serial number504:

  • One was bought by Peter Coeln from a Bavarian chemist's family504. This camera was Leica I Model A and had 50mm f/2.5 Hektor lens and is believed to be only 1 of 3 LUXUS cameras with such a lens504. 
  • The other camera was illustrated on page 29 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. This one was a Leica I Model C Luxus, fitted with a 50mm f/2.5 Hektor lens (engraved 404) and FODIS rangefinder540. 

Camera number 48406 was delivered as LESSALUX to New York City on October 31, 1930153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48407 was delivered as LESSALUX to New York City on October 31, 1930 and then "returned" on June 11, 1934153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48408 was delivered as LESSALUX "brown" on October 25, 1930 to Schuck Alzensa153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. This camera was auctioned off at Bonhams auction on November 23, 2012. The camera was described Dr. Wolfgang Netolitzky, who reported seeing it in June of 1976, as "a in original condition, the color of the lizard skin is brown. It is registered in the Leitz sales books as follows: "48408, Lessalux, braun, 25.10.30"91.

Camera number 48409 was delivered as LESSALUX "brown" on October 23, 1930 to Stalisker Burlrsh153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48410 was delivered as LESSALUX to New York City on October 31, 1930 and then "returned" on June ?, 1932153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48411 was delivered as LESSALUX to Baird, London on February 21, 1931 and then "returned" on May 5, 1931153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48412 was delivered as LESSALUX to Baird, London on February 21, 1931 and then "returned" on May 5, 1931153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48413 was delivered as LESSALUX "brown" on June 24, 1931 to Cattaneo153. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48414 was delivered as LESSALUX "brown" on August 21, 1931 to Poron Nbg153. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. The camera was described by it's former owner, Dr. Wolfgang Netolitzky, who reported seeing it one week before Christmas of 1975, as "a standardized model C...showing much brassing, two small parts missing, and a slightly damaged lens front ring. The body covering of brown lizard skin was heavily worn but fortunately not damaged and complete... delivered on August 21, 1931, and it most likelyleft the factory as a standardized model C-Luxus. The sales book shows no entry referring to any conversion, the codeword listed is LELUX... must have been used as a working camera. Only little gold was left, most visible metal parts showed heavy brassing....For one month I enjoyed the brassy patina. Then I became the victim of my curiosity and reached for my tools to partly dismantle the camera to see how much gold was there underneath ... I decided to restore my Lux us with the help of two specialists. My mechanic stated that the camera showed no signs of any former strip down, it had been used for almost 45 years and still worked well. Restoring the camera, nothing was done to the lizard skin body covering. I believe that the success of the restoration proves that we have done right..."0 48414 Lelux braun, 21.8.31."91.

Camera number 48415 was delivered as LESSALUX to Leipzig Fair on February 15, 1932 and then "returned" to Rome on October 17, 1932 and "returned" to an undisclosed location in 193?153. The camera was used for demonstration purposes153. The camera clearly exhibited modifications throughout its multiple deliveries153.

Camera number 48417 was originally a Leica I Model C Non-Standard LUXUS that was converted to Leica II Model D in November of 1932 and to Leica II Model D syn. in 1961393. It was delivered as "red" to a <hard-to-read> location on November 8, 1932, then "returned" 2 times at different undisclosed dates153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. The camera was owned by German collector Willi Thurau393. The camera was auctioned off at Christie's on June 11, 1998, where it was described as "non-standardised, with gilt top and baseplate and fittings, skin-covered body, a matched Leitz gilt-barrel Elmar f/3.5 50mm. lens, the barrel engraved 417 and cap ...According to information from Leica Camera GmbH Leica 48417 was purchased or loaned by D”lz on 8-11-1932. Serial number information indicates that the camera was part of a batch numbered 48417-48419 produced in 1931.".. Later, camera auctioned off at Leitz Photographica Auction on November 19, 2016393. The lot was described as "...The original parts of the Mod.C from 1930 including top plate, base plate and other parts were kept in the factory and used to built-up the offered camera. It comes with green reptile leather covering, Elmar 3.5/50mm engraved '417' on the barrel, gold plated lens cap, gold plated FODIS rangefinder...with expertise by Ottmar Michaely from July 2007"393. 

Camera number 48418 was delivered as LUXUS (C) to Berlin on September 18, 1931153. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. Leica I Model A (!) Luxus camera with the same serial number 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. A duplicate camera with the same serial number existed153. It appeared that a non-standardized Leica I Model C Luxus was the carrier of the duplicate serial number540. The photograph of this non-standardized Leica I Model C Luxus appeared on page 32 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. 

Camera number 48419 was delivered on multiple occassions as: 

  • as LESSALUX to Berlin on September 29, 1931
  •  LUXUS "red" on December 30, 1931 to an undisclosed location,
  •  "returned" as LUXUS to an undisclosed location on February 8, 1932,
  • on February 20, 1934
  • and sometime in 1937153. 

The camera was likely used for demonstration purposes153. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. The camera was described Dr. Wolfgang Netolitzky, who reported seeing it in April of 1977, as "model C-Luxus just as mine and that his Luxus still had the original Etrin-style crocodile case with it. Only the gold plated FODIS rangefinder was missing. The entry in the sales book says: "0 48419 Lessalux, Etrin rot, 23.9.31"91. The camera, together with 5cm f/3.5 Elmar lens number 419 was auctioned off at the Christie's auction in 1993 and later at the Bohnam's "The Fine Leica Centenary Sale" on November 29, 2014 in Hong Kong531. 

Camera number 48426 was delivered as LESSALUX "red" on August 20, 1931 to Cattaneo153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48427 was delivered as LESSALUX on March 10, 1931 to Schmidt, Canton153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48428 was delivered as LESSALUX "green" (note from the author of this website: likely referring to the green crocodile coverings) on March 28, 1931 to (N) Amlblad Gothenburg153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48429 was delivered as LESSALUX "green" (note from the author of this website: likely referring to the green crocodile coverings) on March 26, 1931 to Schmidt, Shanghai153. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48430 was delivered as LESSALUX "brown" (note from the author of this website: likely referring to the brown crocodile coverings) on March 31, 1931 to Bivro Wurzburg153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48431 was delivered as LUXUS (C) "green" to Berlin on September 4, 1931153. The photograph of this camera appeared on page 27 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. In his book, Paul-Henry van Hasbroeck stated that he was aware of only one existing Leica I Model C Luxus camera, which was a conversion from Leica I Model A (see Viewfinder Volume 22, No. 3, 1989). However, he did not provide a serial number for this camera (see Viewfinder Volume 22, No. 3, 1989). The camera featured on the cover of Viewfinder Volume 22, No. 3, 1989 was that very model and it was displayed at the LHSA annual meetings in 1987 and 1988, "thanks to the generosity of Jim Munro" (see Viewfinder Volume 22, No. 3, 1989). It was illustrated on page 13 of Shinichi Nakamura's "Leica Collection" (1991) book602.

Camera number 48432 was delivered as LUXUS "brown" on March 30, 1931 to Perrot153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48433 was delivered as LUXUS "brown" on February 10, 1931 to Tiranty153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48434 was delivered as LESSALUX "red" on July 20, 1931 to Cattaneo153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48435 was delivered as LESSALUX "green" (note from the author of this website: likely referring to the green crocodile coverings) on February 17, 1931 to Leipzig, then "returned" on March 13, 1931 to Berlin, and then "returned" on September 11, 1931 to "not mentioned" location153. The camera was used for demonstration purposes153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. It was auctioned off at Christie's, London, UK on June 3, 2003.

Camera number 48436 was delivered as LELUX "blue" on December 16, 1930 to Pablo Terrande, Montevideo, Uruguay153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548.

Camera number 48437 was delivered as LELUX to a <hard-to-read> locations as "brown" on January 20, 1931, then "returned" in March of 1931, "returned" again on March 14, 1931, and then "returned" again on April 15, 193?153. This camera had a 50mm f/2.5 Hektor lens548. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. 

Camera number 48438 was a Leica I Model A LUXUS153. It was delivered as LELUX rot379 in February 18, 1931, for Anton Baumann379. The term "Lelux rot" referred to an outfit containing a Leica LUXUS camera with a red lizard skin covering, one cassette and a leather case379. The camera was used for demonstration purposes153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. This camera was auctioned off at the 44th Leitz Photographica Auction on June 10, 2024379. A duplicate camera with the same serial number, and not necessarily a LUXUS, existed153.

Camera number 48439 delivered as LELUX "red" on December 30, 1930 to Nilles, Cologne153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. 

Camera number 48440 delivered as LESSALUX "green" (note from the author of this website: likely referring to the green crocodile coverings) to (NC) Prague on July 21, 1930 or 1931 and then "returned" on an unclear date to an undisclosed location153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. 

Camera number 48441 was designated "50/35/135"153. It was delivered as "brown" to Perrot on April 14, 1932 and then "returned?" to an undisclosed location on an unclear date153. This camera had been standardized153. This camera was indicated among LUXUS cameras mentioned by Rogliatti548. 

Camera number 48442 was auctioned off at Auction Team Breker on March 23, 2024 and was described as "Leitz, Wetzlar. No. 48442, not matched to "0", gold-plated upper and lower parts, green snakeskin covering, with matching Elmar 3.5/5 cm lens engraved "442" on the depth of field ring, faintly hand-engraved on inside baseplate: "(? ?) v. Rotter Haage, Rig?", shutter working, accuracy of inscription not guaranteed. Possibly (following Fritz and Alfred Rotter) a camera with an eventful life. - Note: In the earliest published number lists for the Leica Luxus, only a single camera from production year 1931 was listed in the 48,000 range: no. 48441. ".

The Leica III Model F LUXUS camera number 55493 was auctioned off at the 23rd WestLicht Camera Auction on May 25, 2013401. The lot was described as "Unique outfit of original Leitz gold plated 'Luxus' camera with brown lizard leather covering and 2 gold plated lenses (Summar 2/5cm no.190131, Elmar 3.5/3.5cm no.182545). History of this outfit: It comes from the estate of the famous German sparkling producer Karl Henkell (Henkell Trocken) who used the camera until 1944, then it went to his son Otto Henkell who passed it on to his eldest son and present owner Hans Henkell. The camera is well documented in the Leitz archive. It was originally delivered on February 11th, 1931 to Besier Wiesbaden as a Luxus (vergoldet) Ic non standard outfit with 4 lenses, it came back to Leitz on April 30th, 1931 for repair and was converted in Leica II Luxus on May 2nd, 1932, on December 21st, 1933 it was updated in Leica III Luxus. A copy of a photograph showing Karl Henkell in October 1933 with his (still) Leica II Luxus is included. The Summar 2/5cm no.190131 was delivered on December 28th, 1933 to Foto Tauber, Wiesbaden as gold plated (vergoldet) Sumuskup, the date is very close to the last conversion into Leica III, so we believe that the camera and the Summar were delivered together on December 28th, 1933. The Elmar 3.5cm was delivered as a sample lens to a Leitz representative (Barsing, Reise) in 1934 and went back to the factory in January 1938. It was subsequently gold-plated for Karl Henkell."401.

Camera number 55696 existed in two iterations:

  • one was a Leica I Model C Luxus camera540. The camera was designated LESSALUX 2.5cm153. It was delivered with golden FODIS (number 14626) rangefinder to Foto Rikord, Krakow on February 12, 1931153. This camera had been standardized153. Selim A. Nahas identified this camera as one fitted with Hektor f/2.5 lens149, which was engraved the final three digits of the serial number of the body, "696".153 The photograph of the said camera appeared on page 29 of James L. Lager's "Leica: An Illustrated History - Volume 1 - Cameras - Signed Deluxe Limited Edition" book540. 
  • the other was camera a Leica I Model A LEANEKALB, rather than a LUXUS variant149. 


Camera number 68601 was delivered as LESSALUX "brown" (note from the author of this website: likely referring to the brown crocodile coverings) to Lutz Ferrando, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on October 20, 1931153. Mr. Carlos Aslan, an employee of Companhia Esso do Brasil, purchased the camera second-hand sometime before September 1967597. In January 1978, Mr. Aslan sold it to Mr. Boris Kossoy, a photographic historian and the Director of the Museu de Arte de São Paulo597. Mr. Kossoy acquired the camera on behalf of Rolf Fricke in Rio de Janeiro597. The camera was expected to be auctioned off at the 8th Wetzlar Camera Auctions on October 10, 2026597.

Camera number 68834 was delivered as LESSALUX to Berlin on March 22, 1932153. This was a Leica I Model C Luxus camera597.

Camera number 88840 was a Leica II Model D LUXUS camera534.

Camera number 94573 was a Leica II Model D LUXUS camera534.

Camera number 97313 was a Leica II Model D LUXUS camera534.

Camera number 98248 was a Leica II Model D LUXUS camera delivered on October 27, 1932, as "LYKUP LUXUS" to BAKI & FILS in Tirana, Albania399. The camera was found many years ago at a flea market in France and had since been in a private collection399. The owner realized that they possessed a genuine LUXUS after the purchase399. The camera was auctioned off at the "100 years of Leica Camera" WestLicht Camera Auction on May 23, 2014399. According to the lot description, this gold-plated Leica II Model D LUXUS, featuring a brown varan/lizard reptile body cover, was the last LUXUS model ever produced399. Also it was one of only four Leica II Model D LUXUS cameras produced399. It came with a matching gold-plated 5cm Elmar f/3.5 lens (serial number: 144963) and a gold-plated cap399. In July of 2026, this camera belonged to a prominent Hong Kongese collection.