Leica M3 early model, double stroke with Buddha ears strap lugs. Serial number in the 750,000 range, dating to 1955 according to Leitz production records. Small tripod socket.

This camera comes with its original purchase receipt from 1955, issued by Lewis Newcombe, a long-gone camera shop on Old Bond Street in Mayfair, one of London's most prestigious districts.

Typical of an early M3 in the 750,000 serial number range, it retains many features of the earliest M3 models introduced in 1954, including the four slotted screws on the top cover, the single dot in the center of the rewind knob, and the back door with an ASA scale up to 200.

A fine example for both collection and practical use.

There are two or three very faint scuffs on the top of the top cover and some linear scuffs on the bottom plate, but no dents or dings. Overall, the body is in excellent cosmetic condition.

The strap lugs show no signs of ever having had a strap attached, and the exceptionally clean back door is particularly noteworthy. Even among beautiful M3 bodies, it is not uncommon to find diagonal marks on the back door from prolonged storage in a leather case, but this example has none. The gutta-percha is entirely original, with its texture still crisp and well-defined.

Fully overhauled in October 2026. Thanks to careful servicing, all controls have regained the smooth, refined feel characteristic of an early M3. The viewfinder is clear and bright, with excellent rangefinder contrast.

The camera comes with some fascinating original paperwork, including the sales receipt from the UK and an early Leica M3 catalogue from late 1954, closely matching the period of this camera. These historical documents are a pleasure to browse through in their own right.

An original Leica body cap is also included.