Fit of Ever Ready Case for Leica IIIa vs IIf/IIIf

[Wcuriosity]

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Hi everyone,

I'm looking at a Leica ever ready case that's advertised as fitting "Leica IIC, IIF, IIIa, IIIC," but I'm a bit skeptical. From what I've read, the IIf/IIIf are slightly larger than the IIIa, and I suspect this case was made before 1939—possibly originally for the IIIa.

Does anyone know if the size difference between these models is negligible when it comes to case fit, or is it significant enough that I should make sure the case is specifically matched to my camera model? I'd appreciate any insight from those who’ve tried swapping cases between these models.

Thanks in advance!

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[Michael Geschlecht]

Hello Wcuriosity,

Welcome to the Forum.

The early screw mount cameras thru the IIIb model measure 133 millimeters/approximately 5 & 1/4 inches in length.

Screw mount cameras which are IIIc & more modern designs measure 136 millimeters/approximately 5 & 3/8 inches in length.

A 3 millimeter/approximately 1/8 inch difference.

This change in length took place at the same time the manufacturing technology for the newer desgns was introduced.

You cannot use serial numbers to ascertain the model change. You must measure the baseplate.

Because: A number of cameras of the earlier designs were manufactured after the introduction of the IIIc camera bodies. And the later cameras of the earlier designs continued to be manufactured using the earlier manufacturing technology.

Best Regards,

Michael

Edited May 7 by Michael Geschlecht

[Michael Geschlecht]

Hello Again Wcuriosity,

Sometimes there is confusion about camera body nomenclature.

The capital letters A thru H (Yes there was a model H.), as well as FF and GG alone, are letter designations for certain models for certain reasons at certain times.

In a parallel nomenclature system for the same bodies (Except for H.).

Some screw mount camera bodies are designated with roman numerals I, II, III,. Which sometimes have suffixes which are the lower case letters a thru d & lower case letters f & g . There is no lower case e used as a suffix for roman numeral designated cameras.

Such as IIIb or IIg.

There is also a model IV which is a transitional model between screw mount & bayonet mount cameras that was not put in general production.

Sometimes you will see a model designated with a roman numeral suffixed with a capital A,B, etc.

Such as IIIA

This type of combination needs to be reconfigured into 1 of the 2 systems outlined above in this Post.

Best Regards,

Michael