Leica III Model F
Following the Leica II Model D, which was the first Leica to be fitted with a coupled rangefinder, the Leica III Model F (also known as Leica IIIf) was the first first Leica equiped with a slow speed dial. The Leica III (Model F) also had an improved rangefinder with an inside magnification of 1.5 which improves focusing. The Leica III was manufactured continuously from 1933 to 1939 with a total of 76 457 cameras being manufactured. Early models are black while later models are silver.
The Leica IIIf was the first Leica equiped with a slow speed dial
Leica Code: AFOOV
Total Production: 76 457 (27 366 in chrome and 49 091 in black) + converted Leica IIs
Weight: 700 g
Baseplate length: 13.7 cm
Speeds: 1 /500; 1/200; 1/100; 1/60; 1/40; 1/30; 1/20; 1/8; 1/4; 1/2; 1/1; Z; T
Previous Leica Model: Leica II Model D
Following Leica Model: Leica IIIa Model G
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- Leica III Model F with the slow speed dial left of the Elmar 5cm lens
The Leica III Model F was both produced with a black enamel finish with nickel fittings (early models) and later in chrome. In total 76 457 Leica III Model F were manufactured, with the bulk of the production taking place in 1934.
Buying a Leica III Model F
Leica III Model F cameras are, like all other Leicas, collectors items. Try to find one that is both technically and optically in good condition. A good way to be on the safe side is to double check the serial number. Like any other Leica purchase: keep away from golden cameras or any camera with WWII or Olympic symbols as you have a 99,999 percent chance that these are fakes!
