CameraWorth.com

Showa Kogaku Leotax K

The Leotax K is a 35mm rangefinder camera produced in Japan by Showa Kogaku during the 1950s. It uses the Leica screw mount (M39/LTM), placing it among the Japanese Leica-derived rangefinders of that era and positioning it as a more affordable alternative to a Leitz body when new.

At recent UK auction, hammer prices for the Leotax K have sat in a £200–£300 band across four recorded results, with a median around £240 and the most recent 2024 sale settling at £212. Today the camera's value is fairly stable at saleroom level, though condition is the decisive factor — clean, working bodies sit toward the upper end of that range while cosmetically tired examples sell for less.

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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.

Prices updated: May 2024

Date Price Source
May 2024 £212 Flints Auctions
Nov 2015 EUR 200 Leitz Auction
Nov 2005 EUR 300 Leitz Auction
Sep 1998 £276 Christie's

Frequently asked questions

What is a Leotax K worth today?

Based on UK auction hammer results, a Leotax K is typically worth £200–£300, with a median around £240 and the most recent 2024 sale at £212.

How much does a Leotax K sell for at auction?

Recent UK auction hammer prices show the Leotax K sells for roughly £200 for average examples and up to about £300 for clean, fully working bodies.

Is the Leotax K compatible with Leica screw-mount lenses?

Yes — the Leotax K uses the 39mm Leica thread mount, so M39/LTM lenses from Leitz, Canon, Nikon and other makers of the period will fit.

What affects the price of a Leotax K?

Shutter accuracy, rangefinder alignment, and cosmetic condition of the covering and top plate have the biggest impact on value; serviced examples command a premium over untested ones.

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