NON-OPTICAL VIEWFINDERS
The earliest non-optical accessory viewfinder from Leitz is likely the swinging mask of the Leica I Model C, which was introduced in 1930360. This mask swings in front of the 50mm fixed viewfinder, providing an approximate representation of the field of view covered by the 13.5cm Elmar lens used with this camera360. The mask was available as an option; however, while many Leicas from that era have the supporting bracket, not all include the mask360. It's likely that many masks were removed with the introduction of the 'torpedo' viewfinders360.
An example of this swinging mask is illustrated below:
Leitz also issued a small slip-on cover designed to fit over the 50mm fixed viewfinder of the Leica I Model C360. This accessory appeared in 1930 but does not seem to be listed in any Leitz catalogues or leaflets360. However, it is illustrated on page 235 of the Leica Handbook from 1932360. The image below is taken from page 26 of the 1982, July-September issue of Viewfinder magazine:
Both swinging and slip-on types of viewfinders were produced in such limited quantities that Leitz deemed it unnecessary to assign code names to them360.
Starting in 1933, a universal frame-finder known as the RASUK became available360. This frame-finder attaches to the camera's accessory shoe and features a front part that can rotate through 180 degrees360. This design allows users to adjust the distance between the eyepiece and the frame, enabling a single viewfinder to accommodate four different focal lengths360.
In its closest position, with minimal distance between the eyepiece and frame, the viewfinder can be used with 3.5 cm and 7.3 cm lenses360. When fully extended, it allows users to view frames for 5 cm and 9 cm lenses360.
An example of RASUK is illustrated below:
Additionally, by using a slip-on mask (code-named RAMET), frames for the 13.5 cm lens can also be displayed360. The early RAMET masks are solid, but with the introduction of the 10.5 cm lens in 1932, the design of the RAMET was modified to allow for the field of view of this lens. There appear to be three finish variants available360:
Illustrated below is RASAL folding sports finder that consists of RASUK and RAMET slip-on mask:
In 1933, the RASAL frame viewfinder was introduced for sports and aerial photography364. It consisted of two parts: the RASUK viewfinder, designed for 3.5, 5, 7.3, and 9 cm lenses, and an additional RAMET mask for 10.5 and 13.5 cm lenses364. The front part of the viewfinder could be rotated, allowing it to indicate the frame limits for the 5 cm and 9 cm lenses in the front position, while the frame for the 3.5 cm and 7.3 cm lenses was visible as well364. When the RAMET mask was attached, the front position was used for a 13.5 cm focal length, while the rear position was used for a 10.5 cm focal length364. For precise alignment at longer focal lengths, a pinhole diaphragm could be swiveled into the rear section and adjusted vertically to compensate for parallax364.
After the war, in 1951364, a simplified version of the RASUK was introduced: the ROSOL360. This new model was developed in response to the very limited range of lenses available by 1953360 and had frame lines for 50, 85, 90, and 135 mm lenses364. Unlike its predecessor, it featured a non-rotating design, which resulted in fewer frame options; however, this was offset by the introduction of a collapsible frame360. A foldable mask was provided for the 85 mm and 135 mm lenses364. The rear section retained parallax compensation and included a pinhole diaphragm for the 135 mm lens364. Unfortunately, this viewfinder enjoyed only limited success compared to its pre-war counterpart and was discontinued in the early 1960s360.
ROSOL is illustrated below:
OPTICAL VIEWFINDERS
WAIST-LEVEL VIEWFINDERS
Waist level viewfinders were designed for use when the camera was positioned below the eyepiece level, typically at waist height360. They were the only accessory viewfinders available for the Leica I Model A cameras360. The earliest model lacks an accessory shoe on top and does not feature any cross or circle for alignment assistance360. Later models include optical engravings and specialized negative lens masks for 3.5cm and 2.8cm lenses360. The recorded variants are listed below360:
- Variant 1 - For 5cm lens only360. No top accessory shoe360. Code: AUFSU360. From 1930360.
- Variant 2 - Similar to Variant 1, but with 0 and + symbols to aid alignment360.
- Variant 3 - Similar to Variant 2, but with accessory shoe360. Code: AUFSU360. From 1932360.
- Variant 4 - Similar to Variant 3, but with swing-over optical mask for 3.5cm lenses (previously available only as a conversion)360. Code: AYOOC360. From 1935360.
- Variant 5 - Similar to Variant 3, but with swing-over optical mask for 2.8cm lenses360. Code: AHOOT360. From 1936360.
These viewfinders were provided in small, well-designed leather cases that were nearly cubic in shape.
Illustrated below are AUFSU, AYOOC and AHOOT:
DIRECT OPTICAL VIEWFINDERS
Two small direct-view optical viewfinders were available for use with 5cm and 3.5cm lenses, respectively360.
The version for 5cm lenses (code-named SUWOO) was designed similarly to the viewfinder of the Leica I Model A360. It was introduced in 1935 as an optional accessory for use with the single exposure device360. Not many units were sold, making existing specimens highly sought after360.
An example of SUWOO is illustrated below:
The model for 3.5cm lenses was very similar but was introduced later, in 1932—two years after the launch of the 35mm Elmar lens360. It was reported on April 8, 1930 that this viewfinder was developed by Wilhelm Albert and Oskar Barnack and that it was a "5cm Galilean finder with a swivel lens for 3.5cm"364. One can only assume that this early wide-angle lens was used without any special viewfinder360. The 1932 version of this viewfinder (code-named WEISU) had a black finish with a nickel foot360. Starting in 1936, it became available in an all-chrome finish (code-named WEISU CHROM)360. In 1942, a new model featuring a much more tapered body was introduced360.
Examples of WEISU and WEISU CHROM are illustrated below:
UNIVERSAL VIEWFINDERS
There are 3 different categories of universal viewfinders made by Leitz: Torpedo models, VIDOM type and the "right-way-round" frame type360.
Torpedo viewfinders
These models, named for their elongated shape, were designed by Barnack360 and Wilhelm Albert in 1930364 (sometime prior to June 17, 1930)364 and first appeared in the catalog in 1931364. Oskar Barnack received the DRP Patent No. 558 799 for the "torpedo" (Mehrfach (Torpedo) Sucher) viewfinder364. They were the first universal viewfinders designed for use with Leica I Model C364. They were produced in more variations than any other Leitz viewfinder, with each version assigned a different code name based on the lens combinations it supports360. Internally engraved with black frame lines that outline various fields of view, the 'torpedo' models produce laterally reversed images360. The catalog stated that the reversal image made it easier to see whether the camera was held horizontally364. Additionally, the eyepiece can be rotated 90 degrees using the knurled ring364 to facilitate the taking of portrait-oriented photographs360.
In essence, "torpedo" viewfinder was an inverted telescope with an engraved glass disc at the focal point of the lens364. The disc had frames for 3.5, 5, 13.5 cm focal lengths364.
The 'torpedo' models differ in three main aspects, aside from the lens combination: the optical field of view, the mechanical construction (in most versions, the shoe is either fixed or lacks parallax adjustment), and the finish (available in either chrome or black)360.
The earliest 'torpedo' viewfinders (code-named VISOR) feature a non-parallax-compensating foot, a partially knurled eyepiece, and a black finish360. Later models include a parallax-compensating foot and a fully knurled eyepiece, with most of these finished in chrome360. Subsequent versions have slits on either side of the accessory shoe to aid in its removal360. Some export models were engraved with 'Germany,' initially on the accessory shoe and later near the foot360.
Among the 'torpedo' viewfinders, the two most unusual are the cinematographic model (code-named KINOR) and the later stereo model360. The cinematographic version, designed for 16mm format and compatible with 20mm, 25mm, 50mm, and 75mm lenses, is the predecessor of the highly sought-after KINSU model360. The stereo model, equipped with an 18x24 mm mask, precedes the rare stereo VIDOM viewfinder360.
Either way, in 1932, a number of models of "torpedo" viewfinders were available, all in black, and each with a different combination of focal lengths364. By 1933, the list was reduced to 4 models of "torpedo" viewfinders, in either black or chrome finishes with pivoting parallax correcting foots364. In some frames, the reduced image filed for close-up shots was indicated by an additional inner image frame. The said 4 models were listed in the catalog until 1936364.
Neat, pouch-like cases, similar to those made for Leitz rangefinders, were issued with the 'torpedo' viewfinders360.
An example of early "torpedo" viewfinder (code-named VISOR) with partially knurled eyepiece is illustrated below:
An example of a chrome model (likely code-named VIZWC) that has parallax adjustment, meter scale, with 35/50/90 frame lines:
An example of a model (likely code-named VISET) that has slits on either side of the accessory shoe to aid in its removal:
An example of KINSU for movie cameras with frames for 15mm-150mm is illustrated below:
An example of KINOR model with frames for 15-100mm is illustrated below:
Viewfinder with adjustable frame (code-named VIDOM)
VIDOM viewfinder, similar to the 'torpedo' type, reverses the image laterally and can be adjusted for taking portrait-shaped photographs by rotating the eyepiece 90 degrees360. However, with the VIDOM, only one frame is visible at a time360. The photographer selects the appropriate mask using a frame selector that is engraved with measurements of 3.5, 5, 7.3, 9, 10.5, and 13.5 cm360. A slight adjustment is needed for close-up photography, which is indicated by a smaller mark on the selector ring360. All variants of the VIDOM are equipped with a foot for parallax correction360.
There are six main variants:
- Variant 1 was nicknamed the 'flat-nose VIDOM', since the front cone is made in one unit360. With its long foot (18mm), this variant was specifically designed for use with the Leica Standard Model E360. Issued in 1932, it was produced concurrently with the 'torpedo' viewfinders360. In black and nickel finish360.
- Variant 2 was similar to Variant 1, but with two-piece nose section, curved towards the rear360.
- Variant 3 was similar to Variant 2, but with short foot (14mm)360.
- Variant 4 was similar to Variant 3, but with parallax unit and foot in chrome finish360.
- Variant 5 was similar to Variant 4, but in all-nickel finish360.
- Variant 6 was similar to Variant 3, but in all-chrome finish360. Manufactured in far bigger quantities than any of the other variants360.
A special version of the VIDOM, code-named KINSU, was developed for cinematographic use360. This model succeeded the 'torpedo' cine viewfinder (code-named KINOR) and was designed to work in conjunction with 16mm cine cameras360. The KINSU accommodates lenses with focal lengths of 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 5, 7.5, 10, and 15 cm360. In terms of design, the KINSU closely resembles the standard Vidom, but features a larger round eyecup on the eyepiece360. It was listed in catalogues from 1933 to 1940, and a special bracket was provided to facilitate its mounting on cine cameras360.
Additionally, a special pyramid-shaped case was issued for the VIDOM, designed to hold the camera with the viewfinder in position360.
Viewfinder with adjustable "right-way-round" frame (code-named VIOOH)
Available from 1938 onwards, the VIOOH viewfinder represents a significant advancement over the VIDOM360. The inclusion of an additional prism within its housing allows for lateral correction of the image, enabling photographers to take either vertical or horizontal photographs without any adjustments360. Numerous variants of the VIOOH exist; however, the listing of these variants is complicated by the fact that during the war, Leitz New York manufactured a nearly identical viewfinder called the Imarect360.
The Wetzlar variants are as follows360:
- Variant 1 was the original model, with frames for 3.5, 5, 7.3, 9 and 13.5cm lenses360. Issued in 1940, together with a 28mm adaptor (code-named TUVOO), which is screwed in front of the lens cone360. (Some very early specimens have non-threaded conical tubes,and are, therefore, incompatible with the TUVOO.)360 A report from April 25, 1939, states that Wilhelm Albert developed the 2.8 cm telescope viewfinder attachment, known today as TUVOO, in 1939364.
- Variant 2 was similar to Variant 1, but the shape of the body slopes more and there is less bulge at the bottom360.
- Variant 3 was similar to Variant 2, but the 7.3cm lens mark is replaced (from 1943) by an 8.5cm mark360.
- Variant 4 was similar to Variant 3, but with serial numbers and, at the end of the run, marked GMBH. Post-warmodel360.
Leitz New York-issued Imarect in the following variants360:
- Variant 1 was the original model, with frames for 35, 50, 73, 90, 105 and 135mm lenses360. Issued in 1944 with a 28mm adaptor (code-named VIOAD), similar to the Wetzlar TUVOO360.
- Variant 2 was similar to Variant 1, but the 105mm frame is replaced by a 127mm frame, adapted to the Wollensak 127mm lens360.
- Variant 3 was similar to Variant 1, but with a frame for the 85mm Summarex lens360.
Special leather cases were created for both the VIOOH and the Imarect models360. Additionally, ever-ready cases were made available for carrying a camera with the viewfinder attached for both models360.
There is a version of the VIOOH designed for military use, which is colored grey and marked "Heer."360 This variant looks similar to the standard VIOOH, but it can only accommodate the 135mm lens and must be held in an unconventional way: with the eyepiece facing the subject360. As a result, the viewfinder is positioned in reverse when it is mounted in the camera accessory shoe360. This military version was likely used alongside the large panoramic device developed during wartime360.
An example of the rare "Heer" engraved grey VIOOH is illustrated below:
Albada-type reflecting-frame viewfinders are ideal for action photography, as they allow observation of subjects even outside the lens's field360.
Folding Sports Viewfinders
These viewfinders are designed to be folded for easy storage and feature a parallax-correcting device built into the foot360. They were released in black finish starting in 1935 and in chrome finish from 1936360. Three models were available, each intended for a specific lens focal length and size360:
- 7.3cm (code-named SAIOO), issued with little leather case360
- 9cm (code-named SEROO), issued with little leather case360
- 13.5cm (code-named SYEOO), issued with little leather case360
A 10.5 cm model, known by the code name SIZOO, was announced, but it appears that it was never produced360.
SAIOO, SEROO and SYEOO are illustrated below:
Rigid Sports Viewfinders
These viewfinders replaced the folding sports viewfinders, which stopped production around 1943360. However, the new models were not issued until 1949, and production ceased in 1952360. They were available in the following focal lengths: 5 cm, 9 cm, and 13.5 cm, referred to by their code names SOODL, SOOUT, and SOOYV, respectively360.
The dates mentioned in the previous paragraph appear to be inaccurate when considering original Leitz sources364. A report from August 4, 1940, indicates that Wilhelm Albert developed a 5 cm "saddle" viewfinder in that year364. Additionally, a report from September 6, 1940, states that Wilhelm Albert created both a 9 cm and an 8.5 cm mirror frame finder made of die-cast material364. Images of these items, viewed by the author of this website, confirm that both are examples of "saddle" viewfinders364.
Optically similar to the folding models, these viewfinders are partly made of plastic and have a U shape, earning them the nickname "saddle" (or "cradle") viewfinders360. Although versions for 7.3 cm and 8.5 cm lenses were announced, they were apparently never produced360. Among the production models listed, the 5 cm version was never officially cataloged360. Some collectors suggest it may be a prototype, but it seems likely that a sufficient, albeit small, quantity was produced to justify its inclusion360. Indeed, a report dated November 6, 1940, indicates that Wilhelm Albert developed a 5 cm mirror-frame diecast sports viewfinder, featuring parallax correction and a round rear viewing piece364. The author of this website believes that this is the same viewfinder that never reached production364.
SOODL, SOOUT and SOOYV are illustrated below:
Introduced in 1936 for use with the 2.8cm Hektor lens, the collapsible box viewfinder (code-named SUOOQ) shares some similarities with the folding sports model360. However, since the subject is only visible within the lens field, the box model cannot be classified as a sports viewfinder360. It was released in three successive versions360:
When using the box viewfinder with the Leica Standard Model E, it is necessary to use an intermediate accessory shoe (code-named YSOOE) to add extra height and ensure clearance for the shutter dome360. Additionally, a small, beautifully crafted case was included with the box viewfinder360.
SUOOQ and YSOOE are illustrated below:
The first bright-line viewfinder was designed for a 5cm lens and was introduced alongside the Leica Ic in 1949360. Over time, more models were released, ultimately resulting in a bright-line viewfinder being available for every Leitz lens360. It’s important to note that neither the 5cm viewfinder nor the wide-angle models are compensated for parallax, while all telephoto viewfinders do include this compensation360. There are several small variations among the viewfinders; the main models are listed below360.
- 21mm model, code-named SBKOO360. Initially in chrome, later in black finishes360.
- 28mm model, code-named SLOOZ360. Initially in chrome, later in black finishes360.
- 35mm model, code-named SBLOO360. Almost all are finished in chrome; a few are in black360.
- 50mm model, code-named SBOOI360. Finished in chrome360. Some specimens are engraved 50mm (a reversion, yet to be explained, to the 1925 50mm Elmar-type of engraving); others are engraved 5cm360. The earliest version has no ridges on the finger grip360. Two rare versions exist: one with a parallax-correction foot; the other with a top accessory shoe360. Both were produced in very limited runs and are most difficult to locate360.
- A modified 5cm model, for use with the Stemar and therefore showing the 18 × 24mm frame, was also introduced360. Three versions are recorded: the first bears no engraving; the second is engraved Leitz Wetzlar; the third, Leitz, Ontario360.
- 85mm model, code-named SGOOD360. A short-lived model, as it was associated with the production of the Summarex lens360. Similar in construction to the viewfinder for the 9cm lens, it is in chrome finish360. This model was developed by Wilhelm Albert and Mr. Bock in 1950, according to a report from January 26, 1950364.
- 90mm model, code-named SGVOO360. Finished in chrome360. This model was developed by Wilhelm Albert and Mr. Bock in 1950, according to a report from January 26, 1950364. Smaller version of this finder was developed in 1953 by Wilhelm Albert, according to a report from March 6, 1953364.
- 135mm model, code-named SHOOC360. Early specimens are engraved either with imperial or with metric measurements; later both scales were marked (the metric distance scale in red).360 Finished in chrome360. This model was developed by Wilhelm Albert and Mr. Bock in 1950, according to a report from January 26, 1950364.
Rare black SBLOO is illustrated below:
Right-angle viewfinders allow photographers to take pictures with the camera positioned at a 90-degree angle to their body360. Similar to waist-level viewfinders, this device is helpful for photographers who want to work without drawing attention to themselves360. According to report from December 24, 1931, Wilhelm Albert and Oskar Barnack developed the right-angle finders for Leica II Model D and Leica III Model F364.
The main variants, which have evolved alongside the Leica, are listed below360:
- Variant 1 (code-named WINKO) was originally made for the Leica I Model A360. Initially with large eyecup360. In black finish360. From 1929360.
- Variant 2 (code-named WINKO) was made for the Leica Standard Model E360. Similar to Variant 1, but with small eyecup360. From 1932360.
- Variant 3 (code-named WINKOCHROM) was similar to Variant 2, but in all-chrome finish360. From 1937360.
- Variant 4 (code-named WINTU) was designed for the Leicas with coupled rangefinder, namely Leica II Model D, Leica III Model F and Leica IIIa Model G360. In order to achieve focusing, the user pushes an additional angled swinging prism into place opposite the rangefinder window360. Black finish360. From 1933360.
- Variant 5 was similar to Variant 4, but with a small mask for a 13.5cm lens360. A very rare and unusual item360.
- Variant 6 (code-named WINTUCHROM) was similar to Variant 4, but in all-chrome finish360. From 1933360.
- Variant 7 was similar to Variant 6 but with a built-in prism to reverse the image laterally360. Since this model bears no outside marking to indicate this peculiarity, it is easily passed over360. This variant was developed by Wilhelm Albert in 1939364.
A chrome WINTU is illustrated below:
