The Leica 0-Series is one of the most historically significant 35mm cameras in photographic history. Designed under the guidance of Oskar Barnack, often called the father of 35mm photography, these prototype models laid the groundwork for the first commercially produced Leica camera, the Leica I, introduced in 1925.Only 22 of these 0-Series cameras were made, and it is believed that only about half of them still exist today, making each surviving example exceedingly valuable and highly sought after by museums and private collectors. According to the Leica Archives delivery book, No. 112 was delivered directly to Oskar Barnack, adding a unique provenance to its rare status.The offered camera is in commendable overall condition for its age. The body shows a well-preserved finish, and the engravings remain clear. A few small pieces of the original vulcanite covering are missing, but these minor imperfections do not significantly detract from its appearance. The pressure film plate is replaced with a later version.Due to their extreme scarcity and historical importance, Leica 0-Series cameras are rarely seen outside private collections and museums. They are a direct link to the origins of compact 35mm photography.

a unique replica of the famous Leica 0-series, unknown provenance, but very well made and in excellent working condition

An interesting pre-series camera of the special edition replica of the 0-series Type 2, issued to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Oskar Barnack's birth, special serial number 0000001

An interesting pre-series camera of the special edition replica of the 0-series Type 2, issued to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Oskar Barnack's birth

original Leitz-made replica of the 0-Series Leica (with folding finder), in near mint condition, with papers

The famous transitional prototype camera placed historically between the Ur-Leica and the first 0-Series production models. It is a very interesting hybrid showing the progress of the technical development from a prototype to the early production camera. Only two similar prototypes are known to exist. The other one is finished in brass and has been illustrated and thoroughly described by Dr Günter Kisselbach in ‘Barnack’s Erste Leica’ (Barnack’s First Leica). Both share nearly the same external features and are equipped with the same tubular finder. The offered camera has undergone several modifications in its lifespan. Apparently, it served as a test camera for several years. It shows signs of many alterations to the chassis and mechanisms inside. For example, it was equipped initially with an early type folding finder, it was later replaced with a tubular finder, but the signs of this modification are still present inside of the camera. The lens can be identified as a very early 5-element design, most probably ‘BK 50/II’ of 1920/21. The camera has been finished to its final form around 1938 – probably for display purposes. Included in this lot is detailed expertise from Mr Ottmar Michaely. The current owner bought the camera from the known Leica Expert Lars Netopil. The historical importance of this special camera has been confirmed by numerous Leica experts like Paul-Henry van Hasbroeck, Lars Netopil or Ottmar Michaely. Exactly this camera is illustrated in P.-H. van Hasbroeck ‘The Leica - A History Illustrating Every Model and Accessory - Revised Edition’ (photo I in the illustrated preface). It is an important milestone in Leica history and a unique opportunity for serious collectors!

Only approx. 25 of these cameras were produced to test the market in 1923, two years before the commercial introduction of the Leica A. The offered camera is in beautiful and fully working condition, all parts including the paintwork are original, with the matching lens cover and the original folding finder. The Leica 0-Series is one of the major rarities in camera history - camera no.116 sold at WestLicht auction in 2012 was the most expensive camera ever sold - the offered camera is probably the most original and best condition example, only about three cameras are known with the original folding viewfinder. It also has the unique film spool and take-up spool. Illustrated in Lager I page 14., delivered to Sauppe from New York. Provenience: the famous collection of Jim Jannard !

brand new with maker's box, everready case, all papers

Leica 0-Series no. 2676574
black, with a Leitz Anastigmat f/3.5 50mm. lens, in maker's ever ready case, in maker's fitted box, with commemorative brochure and warranty card, in maker's box

Leica 0-Series no. 2677812
black, with collapsible finder, with a Leitz Anastigmat f/3.5 50mm. lens, in maker's leather ever ready case, in maker's presentation box, instruction booklet, commemorative brochure and warranty card, in maker's box

Display Null-Series Leica
wood-body, with lens and finder -- 15 x 7 x 8 inches (38 x 18 x 20cm.)