Leica IIIa chrome. Serial number in the 180,000 range, manufactured in 1935, the very first year of production. A Barnack Leica from the pre-diecast, folded brass era. The Leitz product code is AGNOO. This example features the early large tripod thread.
The IIIa was essentially an evolution of the Leica DIII, adding a 1/1000 sec top shutter speed. At the time, it was said to have been widely used for sports photography as well.

Before the DIII, black paint bodies had been the norm, but from the IIIa onward, chrome finish gradually became the standard for Barnack Leicas. Features introduced with the Leica DIII, such as the strap lugs, diopter adjustment, and slow speed dial, were all retained, making this a highly practical Barnack Leica even today.

Pair it with a compact lens such as a collapsible Elmar or Elmar 35mm, and it slips easily into a pocket. Unlike the later diecast IIIc and subsequent models, the earlier folded brass body offers a uniquely soft and organic feel in the hand.

There is a single line scratch between the rangefinder windows, along with some light scuffing on the top cover and bottom plate, but overall the camera shows very little signs of use. For a Leica IIIa, most examples of which have seen heavy use over the decades, this is an exceptionally clean example. There are no dents or impact marks.

The sharply defined body edges, together with the beautifully finished shiny chrome plating on the top cover and dials, vividly convey the remarkable level of craftsmanship achieved during the golden age of prewar Leica production.

Complementing the beautiful exterior, the vulcanite covering also remains in excellent condition, with a smooth, pleasant texture in the hand that makes shooting all the more enjoyable.

All functions operate properly. The finder view is clear and pleasant. A very enjoyable camera to use.