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Matt Black · 04/27/08, 10:45 PM

I have just acquired the use of a Leica camera from an elderly friend of mine. It certainly hasn't seen service for a good many years and although the lens and viewfinder seem a bit cloudy, it sounds wonderful and generally seems to be in pretty good order. It has been well protected in a neat brown leather case and carry strap.

Before I start playing with it I'd really like to identify the model correctly and was hoping that one of you fine people might be able to assist me.

Looking at Google images I deduced it to be a III, but not sure if it is a IIIa or IIIb. The serial number is 249926. A guide that I looked at indicated that serial numbers running from 240,001 were IIIb models, but, this camera does not have the rangefinder and viewfinder close together which I understand to be a feature of the IIIb.

Any help with identifying would be appreciated and also any advice with regard to DIY cleaning.

Thanks, Chris

04/27/08, 10:45 PM	#1 (permalink)
Matt Black Neuer Benutzer Join Date: 03/10/08 Posts: 8	Is it a Leica IIIa or b? I have just acquired the use of a Leica camera from an elderly friend of mine. It certainly hasn't seen service for a good many years and although the lens and viewfinder seem a bit cloudy, it sounds wonderful and generally seems to be in pretty good order. It has been well protected in a neat brown leather case and carry strap. Before I start playing with it I'd really like to identify the model correctly and was hoping that one of you fine people might be able to assist me. Looking at Google images I deduced it to be a III, but not sure if it is a IIIa or IIIb. The serial number is 249926. A guide that I looked at indicated that serial numbers running from 240,001 were IIIb models, but, this camera does not have the rangefinder and viewfinder close together which I understand to be a feature of the IIIb. Any help with identifying would be appreciated and also any advice with regard to DIY cleaning. Thanks, Chris