Leica IIIg Black Paint – Swedish Military Model
This is a rare Swedish military-issued Leica IIIg in black paint finish, accompanied by an equally rare Summaron 35mm f/2.8 lens, instead of the standard Elmar 50mm f/2.8 typically supplied with Swedish military IIIg sets. Both the body and lens are fully original.
The triple crown emblem indicating Swedish military ownership is engraved on the back of the camera body and at the base of the Summaron lens barrel.
Both the black-painted IIIg and the Summaron were supplied to the Swedish Army on May 25, 1960, through Brandt, Leica's official distributor in Stockholm.
Only 125 Swedish military IIIg bodies were produced, with serial numbers ranging from 987901 to 988025. In contrast, it is said that just 30 military-issued Summaron lenses were made.
As a side note for collectors: this very camera is a consecutive serial number match to the black IIIg Swedish military model featured on page 99 of Leica An Illustrated History Volume I – Cameras by James L. Lager — a must-have reference for Leica enthusiasts.
An exceptional rarity.
The brass is naturally exposed on areas where the camera is typically handled, giving it a pleasing, authentic patina. There is a very small ding to the left of the Leica logo on the top cover, but no other noticeable scratches or dents on either the body or the lens. The vulcanite covering is intact, with no significant chips, maintaining its original condition.
Both the body and the lens were overhauled in 2025. The camera operates smoothly, and the viewfinder remains clear. The Summaron 35mm f/2.8 lens also features clean, clear glass.
The way the black paint has worn gives the camera a tasteful, well-used look—an ideal example of a military-issued Leica.
