A beautiful set consisting of a Leica IIIg and an Elmar 50mm f2.8. The body serial number is in the 900,000 range, while the Elmar 5cm f2.8 is in the 1,540,000 range. The body was made in 1957, and the lens in 1958.
The previous owner had kept this combination together for many years, and we believe it was most likely paired this way since the time of its original release.
The years 1957 to 1958 were an especially exciting period for postwar Leica, with some of the most desirable models appearing one after another, including the Leica M3 with spring-loaded advance lever, the M2 button rewind, the MP, and the M3 black frame counter. This IIIg also clearly conveys the momentum and superb quality of Leica from that remarkable era.
For this sale, both the body and lens have been overhauled and refreshed, so they can be used with confidence for many years to come.
There are only the faintest signs of wear on the accessory shoe, and some light rubbing on the collapsible section of the Elmar. There is a small repair mark to the vulcanite to the left of the ASA indicator on the back, but aside from this, there are virtually no signs of use. The chrome plating has an especially beautiful shine. There are no visible rub marks on the top cover or bottom plate.
Both the body and lens were overhauled in 2026. The shutter and film advance feel excellent, including the self-timer. Film transport has also been checked.
The lens shows minor coating deterioration on the front element and some light cleaning marks on an internal element, but these should have no effect on actual shooting. The focus has been adjusted, and both image quality and rangefinder coupling are good. The anti-reflection matte lacquer inside the barrel has also been beautifully repainted, so an even tighter rendering can be expected. For an Elmar 50mm f2.8, a lens often plagued by heavy haze, this example is in very good condition.
A beautiful IIIg set with period-matched body and lens, something rarely seen these days. Also recommended for collection.
A clean genuine aluminum front cap is included, though it is from a slightly later period.
