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A comprehensive volume tracing the lineage of Leica and Leica-type cameras from the eve of the Barnack Leica’s birth through the end of World War II, supported by meticulous teardown analyses.
Written by camera historian Yukari Kudo. Self-published. Issued in 2026. Japanese language. 224 pages in full color.
Chapter 1: Birth and Development
Chapter 2: Modified Leicas
Chapter 3: Imitation Leicas
Chapter 4: Non-factory Modifications and Fake Leicas
Chapter 5: Best-format Cameras Inspired by Leica
Chapter 6: Cameras Influenced by Leica
After its release, Leica continued to evolve and became an epoch-making presence. In time, it drew imitation worldwide, leading to the creation of numerous copies and non-factory modified versions to meet growing demand. In Japan in particular, copy Leicas and Leica-inspired models appeared one after another.
This book begins by carefully explaining Leica’s defining features and history—elements often overlooked due to their familiarity—offering a fresh perspective even for seasoned enthusiasts.
It then examines in detail Leica’s own factory modification services, such as the conversion from Leica A to DII, analyzing multiple variations through the disassembly of actual examples.
Further, it explores Japanese and Russian cameras that emulated Leica’s groundbreaking combination of interchangeable lenses and rangefinder coupling. Among these, extensive research is devoted to early Canon models from the Seiki Kogaku era, including the Hansa Canon and Seiki Canon, as well as Nippon Camera by Nippon Kogaku’s related lineage later known as Nicca. This section alone spans over 70 pages, richly illustrated with photographs, diagrams, and serial data.
The book also delves into non-factory modifications in Japan from the early Showa period through wartime, as well as rare domestically produced fake Leicas believed to exist in small numbers, distinct from Russian examples.
Additional topics include conversion services to lens-shutter cameras, early Leotax models, and Leica-style film cameras with backing paper produced by Riken Optical Industries, offering a wide-ranging and deeply specialized examination.
The book includes sample photographs taken with the actual cameras featured in the text. A richly detailed, highly specialized yet thoroughly rewarding work, published to commemorate Leica’s 100th anniversary and Canon’s 90th anniversary.
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