CameraWorth.com

Leitz Leica MDa

The Leica MDa is a 35mm viewfinderless rangefinder-body camera produced by Leitz, derived from the M-series chassis but supplied without a rangefinder or optical finder. It was aimed at scientific, technical and reproduction work, where the body would be paired with a Visoflex housing, bellows, microscope adapter or ground-glass back rather than hand-held through-the-lens composition.

At UK auction, hammer prices for the MDa have historically spanned roughly £190 to £560, with a median around £370 — wholesale saleroom levels that exclude buyer's and seller's premiums. The spread is wide because clean, fully functional bodies with original finish sell for noticeably more than worn or seized examples, and technical accessories sold alongside the body can lift the result. As a reference point for what an MDa is worth today in 2026, the available auction record suggests most users should expect a price in the mid-hundreds for a usable example.

I have one to sell

Sales History

Prices shown are UK auction hammer results — the wholesale level achieved in the saleroom. Neither buyer’s nor seller’s commission is included. Dealer and retail asking prices are typically higher.

Prices updated: June 2019

Date Price Source
Jun 2019 EUR 200 Leitz Auction
Nov 2006 £264 Christie's
Jul 2006 £192 Christie's
Dec 2003 £188 Christie's
Sep 2003 £564 Christie's
Jun 1999 £437 Christie's
Oct 1998 £414 Christie's
Aug 1998 £368 Christie's
Jun 1998 £379 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Leica MDa worth at UK auction?

Recent and historical UK auction hammer results for the MDa sit roughly between £190 and £560, with a median around £370, before buyer's and seller's commission are added.

How much does a Leica MDa sell for compared with a standard Leica M body?

The MDa typically sells for less than an equivalent-era M4 because it lacks the rangefinder and viewfinder, so its price reflects its intended technical-use role rather than general-purpose rangefinder shooting.

Why does the value of a Leica MDa vary so much?

The value is highly condition-sensitive: shutter health, cosmetic wear and the presence of matching Leitz technical accessories can shift the price within the observed range.

Can I use a Leica MDa as a normal rangefinder camera?

No — the MDa has no rangefinder or viewfinder built in, so it is used with an accessory finder, a Visoflex reflex housing, or a copy-stand or microscope setup.

Other Leitz cameras

Similar cameras