The Leica IIIg, the final model in the Barnack Leica series. Leitz product code GOOEF. This example has a serial number in the 820,000 range and was made in Germany in 1956.
As a product from Leica’s golden era, it was designed and manufactured without compromising on cost. Its high level of workmanship can be appreciated simply by handling and looking at it. It is a camera that conveys a tangible sense of physical quality that is becoming increasingly rare in modern industrial products.
The IIIg also incorporates technology from the Leica M3, which had been introduced in 1954. It is the only Barnack Leica equipped with parallax-corrected bright-line frames for both 50mm and 90mm lenses. The viewfinder is also excellent, and in terms of ease of use, it stands apart from the other Barnack models.
This item was previously sold by our store and has returned to us after being carefully used by its owner. This will be the third time we have offered it for sale.
There is a small chip above the viewfinder eyepiece, one small mark on the corner of the top cover near the film advance knob, and a minor dent on the tripod socket side corner of the bottom plate. There are also very slight signs of wear on the accessory shoe, shutter speed dial, and bottom plate. Overall, however, the exterior remains in very nice condition. The vulcanite is entirely original and has a pleasantly dry, smooth feel in the hand.
A full overhaul, including replacement of the shutter curtains, was carried out in 2025. All functions continue to operate smoothly and properly. The viewfinder is clear and bright, and the rangefinder double image has good contrast.
A well-maintained Leica IIIg with a clean overall appearance. It is ready to be used and enjoyed with confidence.
