Leica IIIf Swedish Military Model – Black Paint Finish
In 1956, fewer than 100 specially-produced Leica IIIf cameras with black paint finish were manufactured, bearing serial numbers from 822901 to 823000. These were delivered to the Swedish military as cold-weather models, accompanied by a matching all-black Elmar 50mm f/3.5 lens, including a black barrel.
Unlike regular Leica IIIf models produced after serial number 685000, which came standard with a self-timer, this particular model is a special variant without one. The Elmar lens features a serial number in the 1.42 million range, perfectly matching the military body.
One key distinction from later military IIIg models is the absence of a crown mark on both the body and the lens of the IIIf Swedish military version.
This example is a fully original IIIf Swedish military set. However, the close-focus/infinity lock on the Elmar lens, the slow speed lock button, and the shutter speed dial are in chrome, not black. Since other known IIIf Swedish military units also feature chrome parts in these same areas, it’s reasonable to conclude that these are original from the time of delivery.
The black paint on each part of this camera shows signs of heavy use over many years—giving it a deeply appealing patina and a commanding presence.
Whether it’s the black IIIf, the black IIIg, or the famous black M3 around serial number 910,000, the black paint Leicas delivered via Brandt in Stockholm all have a distinct and striking appeal.
Years ago, I once asked a Swedish collector of black-paint Leicas: Why are the black paint Leicas delivered to Sweden so incredibly cool? He explained that in mid-century Sweden, black was seen as elegant and noble—there was a certain cultural aesthetic that favored black. It’s likely the military officers simply placed their orders with the directive, Make it black.
His answer stayed with me. And today, I remain thankful that they left behind such beautiful and inspiring Leicas for future generations.
There is a minor ding near the Leica logo on the left side of the top cover, and another one on the base plate. The black paint shows expected wear from long years of use, but the way it has aged gives it a truly appealing character.
Both the body and the lens were overhauled in 2025, and all functions operate smoothly. Perhaps it's just sentiment, but even among IIIf models, the black paint version seems to offer a more refined, tactile feel when handling its controls.
The viewfinder is bright and clear, with solid contrast. The lens shows a noticeable number of cleaning marks on the rear element, but focus and rangefinder coupling are working well. The vulcanite covering is intact and in good condition.
A rare and exceptional piece.
