Leica M3, late version with single-stroke film advance. Serial number in the 1,140,000 range, made in 1966. The Leitz product code is IGEMO.

Introduced in 1954, the Leica M3 helped establish the golden age of Leitz. It featured the Leica M bayonet mount for fast and secure lens changes, a built-in rangefinder, a superb viewfinder with automatic parallax correction, a beautifully functional design, a robust body built for reliable operation, and an exceptional level of fit and finish that few competitors could match.

The later M3 addressed several minor shortcomings of the earlier version and adopted the more conventional single-stroke film advance.

Incidentally, M3 cameras in this serial number range would normally appear to have an ASA 1300 marking on the back door, but this example is marked ASA 1000.

The Leica M series continued from the M3 through the M2, M4, M5, M6, M7, M8, M9, M10, and M11. Yet the unmistakable appearance of an M-series Leica was already fully established with the M3, which contains all the essential elements of the design.

For photographers who mainly use a 50mm lens, the M3 is still often regarded as the ideal model, largely because of its incomparable viewfinder.

This M3 shows relatively little use and is in very good cosmetic condition. There are some light scuff marks around the Leica logo on the top cover and near the strap lugs, as well as somewhat more noticeable wear on the bottom plate, but overall it remains very clean. There are no dents or impact marks. The vulcanite is entirely original, with a well-defined texture and a pleasantly dry feel in the hand.

Fully overhauled in August 2026. All controls now operate smoothly. The film advance lever is exceptionally smooth and makes you want to keep firing the shutter even without film loaded. The viewfinder is also clear and bright with no haze, and the rangefinder patch has strong contrast.

Includes the original body cap.

Thoroughly serviced and ready to use, this is an excellent M3 for practical shooting.