 Leica IIIf fitted with a Summarit 50mm f/1.5 and a viewfinder. This particular model does not feature a self-timer. | |
| Overview | |
|---|---|
| Type | 35 mm rangefinder camera |
| Lens | |
| Lens mount | M39 lens mount |
| Focusing | |
| Focus | manual |
| Exposure/metering | |
| Exposure | manual |
| Flash | |
| Flash | cold shoe |
The Leica III is a Barnack model rangefinder camera introduced by Leica in 1933, and produced in parallel with the Leica II series. Several models were produced over the years, with significant improvements.
The Leica III uses a coupled rangefinder distinct from the viewfinder. The viewfinder is set for a 50mm lens; use of shorter or longer lenses requires installing an alternate viewfinder on the accessory socket.[1]
| Model name | Manufacturing dates | Features or improvements | Image |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leica F (Leica III) | 1933–1939 | like II but with slow speeds on frontal dial * | 
|
| Leica 250 | 1933–1946 | Leica III or IIIa with 250-image magazines (10 metres of film) | 
|
| Leica G (Leica IIIa) | 1935–1940 | adds 1/1000 speed | 
|
| Leica IIIb | 1938–1940 | Rangefinder and view windows closer together | 
|
| Leica IIIc | 1940–1951 | die-cast body, slightly longer, redesigned shutter featuring ball bearings | 
|
| Leica IIId | 1940–1945 | Very rare, only 427 were built | |
| Leica IIIf | 1950–1956 | Introduced in time for Christmas 1950. Featured in-camera user selectable flash synchronization for the multitude of flash bulbs then available. Two versions produced, (1950–52) with non geometric shutter speeds and had black flash synchro numbers. Collectors refer to this model as a "Black Dial, aka BD". Second version (1953–56) switched to modern geometric speeds and was distinguished by red lettering on flash synchro numbers. Collectors refer to this model as a "Red Dial, aka RD". A self-timer was offered as a factory installed option in 1954. Many owners of the first IIIf version opted to send their cameras to Leica for self-timer retrofits. Collectors add the suffix ST (self timer) to the BD and RD nomenclature. BDST and RDST are used to identify models with self timers. | 
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| Leica IIIg | 1957–1960 | change in body configuration to facilitate manufacture of larger and brighter viewfinder. Projected frame lines and automatic parallax correction for 50 and 90mm lenses. Rare. | 
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