The Leica IIIG was the last Leica screwmount camera manufactured by Leitz. The Leica IIIG was introduced in 1957 to replace the Leica IIIF. At that time the legendary Leica M3 with the new Leica M mount was already introduced to the market. In total 41 589 Leica IIIG cameras were manufactured between 1957 and 1960.

Technically the Leica IIIG is the most advanced screwmount Leica, inheriting many technical specs from the Leica M3. The Leica IIIG is the only screwmount Leica that was equiped with a viewfinder that incorporated both 50mm and 90mm framelines. The viewfinder is much brighter and larger than the one from previous models. The built in flash-synchronisation can both be used with an eletronic flash and a bulb flash. Another unique feature among the screwmount Leica line is the new type of film speed indicator on the camera back. A neat feature comes with the see-through camera case for the film speed indicator. Compared to the previous Leica model, the shutter speed range also changed and is now in line ith those of the Leica M3.

The Leica IIIG is one of the most sought after screwmount Leicas and is normally much more expensive than most earlier models. The larger viewfinder with both 50mm and 90mm framelines is a definite advantage when you are shooting with this camera.

The Leica IIIG was the last Leica screwmount camera manufactured by Leitz.

Leica Code: GOOEF

Weight: 454 g

Baseplate length: 13.7 cm

Total Production: 41 589

Shutter range: T; 1; 1/2; 1/4; 1/8; 1/15; 1/30; 1/60; 1/125; 1/250; 1/500; 1/1000 and B

Previous Leica Model: Leica IIIF

Following Leica Model: Last screwmount Leica

Leica IIIG Variations

Leica IIIG – Standard Chrome version

The vast majority of Leica IIIGs were manufactured with a chrome finish.

Leica IIIG – Midland Ontario

The Leica IIIG was also maufactured in the Leitz factory in Midland, Ontario. Some cameras assembled in Canada have a ‘Midland Ontario’ branding. These cameras are very rare and collectible.

Leica IIIG – black enamel, Swedish Army

125 Leica IIIG cameras were manufactured for the Swedish Army in 1960. These cameras have a black enamel finish and are extremely collectible and expensive. The engravings are filled with white paint. A triple crown is engraved next to the eyepiece of the viewfinder and on the matching lenses. Serial numbers range between 987 901 and 988 025.

Buying a Leica IIIG

The Leica IIIG offers all you need from a srewmount Leica. As the last model manufactured it offers all technical advancements that the Leica Screwmount system had to offer. Its larger viewfinder and both 50mm and 90mm framelines offer a real advantage compared to earlier models. Due to its’ unique looks the Leica IIIG is difficult to counterfeit and I have never come across a copy. Nonetheless, a good way to be on the safe side is to double check the serial number.