Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/01/15

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Help IDing Old Leica
From: Franco Catignani <leica@rdn.it>
Date: Fri, 15 Jan 1999 11:48:53 +0100

Rod Buchanan wrote:

> After spending the last two weeks visiting what seems like every Leica-related site on the web, and checking the meager
> photography section at the town library, I'm in need of assistance.  I have an old Leica camera that belonged to my grandfather
> -- allegedly "liberated" during/following WW II (according to my dad).  I'm guessing the camera hasn't had a roll of film run
> through it in at least 35 years, but it appears to still work, though maybe a little sluggish.  I've narrowed it down (I think) to being a
> IIIc or IIIf, but would appreciate any additional information someone may have.
>
> The serial number is 385489.  It has an Elmar 5cm/3.5 collapsible lens.  The RF/VF windows on the back are next to each other
> on the left side of the camera.  All markings are in black, except for the number 30 on the top and front shutter speed dials.  The
> max shutter speed is 1/1000.  The shutter release is different from anything I've seen in any pictures on the web.  It sticks up ~
> 7/8" from the top of the camera and has two holes in the side, one at 6 o'clock and one at 9 o'clock, when viewed from the back.
> They don't appear to be threaded -- possibly for flash cords?
>
> Q)  Can anyone tell me for sure what model this is and approximately when it was manufactured?
>
> Q)  Is it worth repairing?  I'd love to if it's worth it.
>
> Q)  If so, do you recommend anyone in particular from the "Leica and other Camera Repair Resources" page?
>
> Anything you can tell me will be more than I currently know and will be appreciated.
>
> Thanks in advance,
>
> Rod Buchanan

according toGhester Sartorius's book your camera should be a IIIC part of the batch whit serial numbers ranging from 369451 to 390000, made in
1941-1942.

Hi, Franco