The Leitz Photographica Auction 44: Rare cameras to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Leica M

Fancy owning a part of photography history? Then the Leitz Photographica Auction is the kind of event you want to attend.

Established in 2002, the Leitz Photographica Auction has consistently hosted its eponymous auction, showcasing vintage cameras and accessories biannually. Over time, it has evolved into one of the world’s most renowned sources for historically significant photographica of all kinds. This includes items from various manufacturers, although the primary focus has usually remained on Leica cameras and lenses.

In celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Leica M (which is a very rare find), specifically a Leica MP2 black paint from 1958, one of only six examples ever made, takes the spotlight among the highlights of the 44th Leitz Photographica Auction.

The Leica MP2 black paint, with the serial number 935509, produced in 1958 is among the 27 examples produced in a test series where only six were finished in black paint – specifically, those with the serial numbers 935507 to 935512. The Leica MP2 is recognised as a modified, professional version of the Leica M2, capable of capturing 3.5 pictures per second with a special electric motor drive. The estimate for this collector’s item, which can be considered one of the greatest rarities in the history of photography, ranges from 600,000 to 700,000 euros.

Much like how the Leica MP2 serves as a testament to 1950s camera era, the following auction lot represents an exclusive rarity from the 1930s:

• The Leica I Mod A. Luxus with the serial number 48438 is one of a few remaining “Luxus” Leica cameras. This example has been preserved in its original condition and has never undergone restoration. Its distinctive looks are accentuated by a special leather covering and gold-plated body. The estimated value ranges from 300,000 to 350,000 euros.

• The Leitz Photographica Auction will also feature one of Leica’s rarest camera accessories, the Leitz NY rifle. Inspired by renowned wildlife photographer Attilio Gatti, this accessory features a rifle stock originally designed for wildlife photography. Gatti led thirteen expeditions to Africa, starting in 1922, and was among the first Europeans to capture images of African wildlife. According to expert estimates, fewer than 15 of these “rifles” were ever produced. In addition to the Leica NY rifle with serial number 119, this lot includes a Leica IIIb and a Telyt 5/40cm lens. The estimated value ranges from 240,000 to 260,000 euros.

The Leitz Photographica Auction 44 will take place on 8 June at 11am (CEST) at Leitz Park in Wetzlar (Hesse). Bids can be submitted in advance either online or in written form. Live bidding during the auction is possible on-site, by telephone or through the following websites: https://www.leitz-auction.com/en and https://www.liveauctioneers.com/.

Later this year, Leitz Photographica Auction will also organise two more auctions in Vienna. The photography auction Gestures will take place on 18 October at the Leica Gallery Vienna, followed by Leitz Photographica Auction 45 at the Hotel Bristol on Vienna’s Ringstrasse on 23 November.

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