A rare matching set comprising a first-lot Leica M3 Black Paint, serial number 959xxx, manufactured in 1959, together with a black-paint rigid Summicron 50mm lens in the 1.58 million serial range.
According to the official Leitz production records, the first official batch of black-paint M3 cameras was based on the early-type M3, with 100 units produced beginning from serial number 959401.
There are numerous component differences compared with the second and later batches, but details such as the black-painted strap lugs and the all-black baseplate give this version an overwhelming presence. Its sharp, commanding appearance is truly breathtaking.
The early brass-mount rigid Summicron 50mm f2 in black paint was initially supplied in small numbers for the black-paint Leica MP. It appears that further examples were subsequently produced to accompany the black-counter M3, the 959-series M3, and the early black-paint M2. This example has a meter distance scale.
The shutter mechanism of the M3 body is the spring-loaded single-stroke type. Its component configuration is beautifully correct, and the camera remains fully original. The rigid Summicron is also in excellent condition, and the overall appearance and character of the body and lens are exceptionally well matched.
Previously sold by our shop, this set has been carefully cherished by its owner and has now returned to us. It remains in the same superb condition as when we last offered it.
The softly gleaming black paint reveals just the right amount of brass beneath, giving it a truly wonderful character. Neither the body nor the lens shows any notable dents or impact marks. It has clearly been treated with great care by its successive owners.
Included are the original black-paint front cap, a blackened brass body cap, a slim rear cap, and a UVa filter.
A rare find.
Handled at the request of one of our customers. Thank you very much.
