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Nicca Tower Type 3

The Nicca Tower Type 3 is a Japanese 35mm rangefinder camera from the 1950s, sold in the United States under the Sears Tower brand. Nicca produced Leica-screw-mount rangefinders aimed at photographers who wanted a Barnack-style body at a lower price than the German originals.

At UK auction, hammer prices for the Tower Type 3 have ranged from £69 to £190, with the limited sales data sitting either side of a roughly £130 midpoint. Results today are highly condition-sensitive at saleroom level, and the older 2004 Christie's result shows that provenance and presentation can lift what a Tower Type 3 sells for well above the price a worn user-grade body now commands.

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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.

Date Price Source
May 2025 £69 Flints Auctions
May 2010 EUR 360 Leitz Auction
Jun 2005 £336 Christie's
Nov 2004 £191 Christie's
Jun 1999 £126 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Nicca Tower Type 3 worth today?

Based on UK auction hammer results, a Tower Type 3 is worth roughly £70 to £190 depending on cosmetic condition and whether the shutter and rangefinder are working.

How much does a Nicca Tower Type 3 sell for at auction?

Recent UK saleroom data shows one sells for around £69 for a user-grade body, while exceptional or well-presented examples have reached close to £190.

Is the Tower Type 3 the same camera as a Nicca?

Yes — Tower was the Sears house brand in the United States, and the Tower Type 3 is a rebadged Nicca screw-mount rangefinder, so its value tracks the equivalent Nicca-branded model.

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