A beautifully preserved Leica IIIa in original condition. Serial number in the 230,000 range, manufactured in 1936/37. A Barnack Leica from the sheet-metal era. Leitz code is AGNOO. This example has the large tripod screw.
The IIIa, which added a 1/1000 second shutter speed to the DIII, was said to have been widely used for sports photography at the time.
Before the DIII, black paint bodies were the mainstay, but starting with the IIIa, chrome finish became the mainstream for Barnack Leicas.
It retains the strap lugs, diopter adjustment, and slow shutter speeds introduced with the Leica DIII, making it an appealing model as a practical Barnack.
When fitted with a collapsible Elmar or a compact Elmar 35mm, it slips easily into a pocket, offering a very handy size. It provides a different tactile experience compared to the die-cast models from the IIIc onward, with a smooth, hand-filling feel.

There are a few faint scuffs on the plating of the top cover and back, but nothing conspicuous. No dings or dents are visible. For a IIIa, which is often found heavily used, this is a remarkably clean example. Even on the top surfaces of the dials, almost no wear can be seen, and the chrome plating shines beautifully. It is rare to find a IIIa in this condition.
The sharp-edged body with its beautifully plated top cover and dials conveys the peak craftsmanship of Leica in the pre-war golden era. The original vulcanite covering remains intact, offering a dry and pleasing grip that enhances the feel.
Overhauled in August 2025, the camera operates smoothly and reliably. The operation of all controls is smooth, and while some fungus marks remain in the finder that could not be removed during cleaning, the view remains crisp and clear.
Comes with a genuine body cap.