Leitz MD-22 'Betriebskamera'
The Leitz MD-22 'Betriebskamera' is a 35mm Leitz body produced in small numbers for technical and industrial use rather than general photography. It belongs to the specialist end of the Leitz catalogue, which keeps surviving examples scarce on the open market.
Auction data for the MD-22 'Betriebskamera' is thin, but recorded UK hammer prices at saleroom level span roughly £4,200 to £10,000, with the higher result achieved at a specialist Leitz auction. With only a couple of documented sales, what the camera is worth today depends heavily on the buyer in the room on the day, and any example offered in 2026 could realistically sell for well outside that historic range. Condition, original markings, and provenance drive what a 'Betriebskamera' price tag looks like far more than any general market trend.
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 2023
| Date | Price | Source | |
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| Jun 2023 | EUR 110,000 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 42 (Lot AI_20220121_1128_41718) Title: Leica MD-22 'Betriebskamera'
Description:
extremely rare camera for half-frame 18x24mm exposures, based on the Leica MD-2, one of only very few cameras produced by E.Leitz Canada to special order, in near-mint condition and working order, top plate engraved with 'Betriebsk. HF-004', for Leica factory internal use only, 'HF' stands for half-frame, sticker inside on the bottom with 'ERNST LEITZ CANADA LTD. SERIAL No. 004 MADE IN CANADA', together with leica 14402 Winder M no.22007 (not tested) and body cap Estimate: EUR 20,000 - EUR 22,000 |
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| May 2010 | EUR 10,000 | Leitz Auction | |
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Auction: Leitz Auction 17 (Lot AI_17_10981) Title: MD-22 Betriebskamera
Description:
Leica MD for 18x24mm (Halfframe) exposures, one only very few cameras produced by E.Leitz Canada, in mint and perfect working condition, top plate engraved 'Betriebsk. HF-009', metal plate inside: ERNST LEITZ CANADA LTD. SERIAL No. 009 MADE IN CANADA Estimate: EUR 8,000 - EUR 10,000 |
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| Sep 2004 | £4,182 | Christie's | |
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Auction: CAMERAS AND PHOTOGRAPHIC EQUIPMENT (Lot 135) Title: Leica MD-22 Betriebsk no. HF-001
Description:
Leica MD-22 Betriebsk no. HF-001 Estimate: £2,000 - £3,000 |
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Leitz MD-22 'Betriebskamera' worth today?
The two recorded UK auction hammer prices fall between £4,200 and £10,000, but with so few sales the value of any individual example is best confirmed by recent comparable results rather than a fixed figure.
How much does a Leitz MD-22 'Betriebskamera' sell for at UK auction?
Documented hammer prices sit in the four- to five-figure range, and a clean, complete example with strong provenance tends to sell for the upper end of that band.
Why is the price range so wide?
Specialist Leitz bodies sell to a small pool of collectors, so condition, originality, and the specific auction venue can shift the final price dramatically between examples.