Leica Model A produced in 1928 with the original Elmar lens. Leitz’s code name for this historic camera was simply LEICA, marking the beginning of Leica’s illustrious legacy.
Serial number: 11xxx. The helicoid distance scale is in meters, with a minimum focusing distance of 1 meter. All parts remain original to the period, and the vulcanite covering is the coarse-grained type. The shutter release is the dimple type, indicating that this unit is one of the later Model A cameras to feature it.
The Elmar nameplate has the charmingly small font characteristic of early Model A lenses. The bottom plate is, of course, the classic latch-type, with auf-zu engraved in German, suggesting that this unit was originally supplied for the domestic German market.
This camera has seen extensive use over nearly a century. Yet, thanks to its outstanding design and durability, it can still function perfectly without the need for parts replacement—provided it receives proper servicing.
A remarkable piece, perfect for shooting, admiring, and studying alike.
There is a small dent on the top of the viewfinder. The black paint on various parts has significantly worn away due to years of use, with the bottom plate almost entirely showing the underlying brass. The original vulcanite covering remains intact with no chips or cracks.
Overhauled in March 2025, all mechanical operations are smooth and precise. The old Elmar lens is in excellent condition, with no noticeable cleaning marks or haze—its glass remains clear and beautiful.
As is typical of early Leica Model A units with a mushroom & dimpled release, you must keep the shutter release button pressed while rewinding the film.
Additionally, as sometimes seen in the early sheet-metal Barnack Leicas, there is a slightly wider gap between the film sprocket and the body shell from the time of manufacture. Because of this, after reaching the last frame, the film advance knob may continue to turn even though the film is finished. To use this camera properly, be sure to set the film counter correctly at the start, and once you reach the designated number of frames, rewind the film—just as photographers did in the past.
Though the camera shows signs of use, it comes with a somewhat rare original aluminum lens cap.
