A prewar Leica IIIc. Serial number in the 390,000 range, made in 1945. The Leitz product code is LOOZS. This example is the early stepped-top version of the IIIc, with the rewind lever positioned on the raised section of the top cover.

The IIIc was the first Leica to adopt a die-cast aluminum body, allowing more efficient mass production. It was an epoch-making model for Leitz and marked a major turning point in Leica camera production.

Compared with the sheet-metal bodies used up through the Leica IIIb, the IIIc body was approximately 3mm wider. As a result, accessories such as the baseplate and Leica pistol grip require versions made specifically for the IIIc body size.

The Leica IIIc is also a particularly interesting model because of its many variations. Introduced in 1940 during World War II, it was produced in a number of military versions, including examples engraved Luftwaffen or Heer, gray-finished military IIIcK models said to have been made for cold-weather use, gray versions without the K designation, and extremely rare black-paint examples.

The baseplate shows a fair amount of light rubbing and a few small scratches. There is also some light rubbing on the top cover, but no noticeable scratches or dents. Overall, the body remains quite clean. The chrome plating and gutta-percha are also in good condition.
Fully overhauled in September 2026. All functions are operating smoothly.
The finder is clear, and the rangefinder double image is crisp and easy to see. A good example for practical use.