A unique prototype M camera featuring one large window that incorporates both the viewfinder and viewfinder illuminator. The body combines features of the M2 and M4 and may be an early experimental model designed to test the angled rewind knob. The top plate is highly customised and unlike any other production Leica. The camera comes with a prototype Summaron 2.8/35mm lens, no. 0000241, and is in beautiful, near-mint, working condition. This exact camera is featured in L. Netopil's 'Prototype Leica' on pages 429-433. It is one of the most distinctive prototypes we have seen!

An original early design study model of the Leica M3, just like the earliest prototype cameras (see previous lot), this plastic model is around 2mm shorter than the production M3, it still shows the iconic shape of the camera body and is equipped with an external film counter and a lens resembling the Summicron 2/5cm in the collapsed position, it is an interesting piece showing an important step in the development of the M3.

The Leica M3 was introduced in 1954 after many years of development and testing, becoming the most commercially successful of all M-series cameras. It was the first model to feature the now-iconic M-mount and introduced a combined rangefinder-viewfinder eyepiece with parallax correction and automatic frame lines for three focal lengths. The earliest complete prototypes of the Leica M3 were built as early as 1948-49.The camera being offered here is one of these earliest known prototypes. It is unnumbered and lacks engravings, with all parts—including the back door, camera chassis, and base plate—being hand-machined and unique to this particular camera. The body is 2mm shorter than the final Leica M3 and is covered in sharkskin-type vulcanite. This camera displays numerous distinctive features not seen in any production Leica, such as special strap lugs, an external film counter, a uniquely shaped winding lever, and a 'flat' style for the frames surrounding the viewfinder and rangefinder windows. It remains in beautiful condition and is fully functional.Included with this camera is a unique, unnumbered M-mount Elmar 3.5/3.5cm lens. This prototype lens features a special construction with a small slot on the lens base, likely intended for a detachable wide-angle viewfinder attachment. Additionally, the camera comes with a prototype light meter, similar in shape to the Leica-Meter but of an entirely different construction.This camera was featured in Lager I Cameras on page 176. It stands as one of the most significant cameras in Leica's history. This remarkable prototype represents a pivotal moment in Leica’s journey, marking the transition to the legendary M-series that redefined rangefinder photography. Its unique features and craftsmanship make it an extraordinary piece of photographic history. As one of the earliest prototypes, this camera is a rare and invaluable artifact, embodying the innovation and precision that have cemented Leica’s reputation in the world of photography.

Prototype M-camera with experimental finder by Robert Eckhardt. Complicated optical/mechanical design allowed not only parallax correction, but also correction of difference of focal length determined by focus. An enlarged space was needed to fit this finder into the M top plate, therefore the regular straight M2/M3-type rewind knob could not be kept. The camera already has a cranked rewind, similar to the later M4. Technically, the camera is an M2, but with automatic counter. Original Leitz documents of Patent applies from fall 1958 included, signed by Ernst and Ludwig Leitz, top plate without engravings and serial number, the unique camera in fine and working condition.