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LEICA IIIC

The Leica IIIC is often referred to as the "fünfzehner," which means "number 15" in German, derived from the last two digits of its official model number (42215)360. The Leica IIIc was produced from 1940, during the wartime, until 1951171.


Finishes

Between 1942 and 1944, Germany experienced a shortage of chrome. As a result, the Leica IIIC cameras were produced with a grey-blue enamel finish and chrome fittings. The shutter release guard was typically made of alloy. These cameras are often inaccurately referred to as 'Luftwaffen' Leicas. It’s important to note that not all IIICs from this period were finished in enamel. Willy Hahn estimated that there were 3,415 grey cameras produced, with serial numbers ranging from 387,201 (in 1942) to 391,699 (in 1944)360. 

It is known that some grey Leicas were refinished in chrome after the war, either by members of the Allied forces who acquired them or by various dealers. A smaller number were restored to their original appearance by collectors. Genuine chromed IIIc cameras from the 1942-1944 period appear to have a brighter finish than the standard model, and rare chromed IIIcK cameras from 1942 exhibit this characteristic as well360. 

In 1948, Leica IIIc cameras (along with the Ic and IIc models) were produced with a rougher "sharkskin" body covering that improved grip. This finish began with serial number approximately 430,000 and continued until late 1949, with the highest recorded serial number being 501,476. The body covering of the last IIIc cameras resembled the pattern that was later used for the IIIf. Interestingly, many of the "sharkskin" Leicas seem to have a poor chrome finish360. 

A variant of the IIIc with a black finish is known to exist, but only one example (serial number 390426K) has been recorded to date360.


Technical Specifications

Leica IIIc body made pre-war has code LOOOA360

Leica IIIc fitted with the 50mm f/2 Summitar lens has code LOOKX171.

Leica IIIc fitted with the 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens has code LOOGI344.

Leica IIIc fitted with the 50mm f/2 Summitar lens has code LOOQA344.

Leica IIIc fitted with the 50mm f/1.5 Xenon lens has code LOOSB344.

Leica IIIc body made post-war has code LOOHW360

For many years, the IIIc was considered one of the least desirable screw-mount cameras from a collector's perspective171. This perception stemmed from the understanding that the postwar IIIc was produced in large quantities, coupled with the fact that many collectors found it less intriguing compared to other Leica models188. However, now IIIc cameras in collectible condition are fetching significantly higher prices171. The Leica IIIc cameras were not considered old enough to be of interest, and their lack of flash synchronization made them seem outdated and less practical. The only exception to this perspective was the wartime versions of the IIIc, which were produced in much smaller quantities and featured variations that made them significantly more intriguing than the postwar models188.


Base of the Camera

Leica IIIc was 2.8 mm longer than all earlier cameras (specifically, 3mm longer than Leica IIIb360), which made it incompatible with the SCNOO Rapid Winder, necessitating a redesigned rapid winding attachment33 with longer motor and longer basis360. Thus, IIIc could be equipped with either LEICAVIT-C baseplate winder, which features a folding trigger similar to that found on the later popular MP model, or the clockwork motor drive known as MOOLY-C347.


Shutter

IIIc has a more efficient shutter189. Leitz designed a highly effective drum brake which included adjustable internal shoes189 that smoothly stops the leading curtain at the end of its travel. This brake enhances handholding stability, especially at the newly introduced intermediate shutter speeds of 1/20th, 1/15th, and 1/10th on the click-stopped front dial. These shutter speeds are particularly useful in slightly poor lighting conditions, as earlier camera models had a gap between the speeds of 1/20th and 1/8th347. Also, as a result of these improvements, the slowest shutter speed on the new mechanism became 1/30 seconds, compared to the previous 1/20 seconds189. All in all, top shutter speed dial had speeds ranging from 1/1000 to 1/30 second and Z (Bulb), while the slow shutter speed dial had speeds ranging from 1/30 to 1 second and Time358.

In the IIIc model, the old slow-speed escapement's ratchet pallet was automatically disengaged, allowing the wheels to run freely, which enabled quieter shutter speeds down to 1/10 seconds. The ratchet pallet then engaged again for speeds of 1/4 seconds and slower. If you hold a IIIc or IIIf to your ear, you can hear the difference between the ratcheted 1/4 second and the unratcheted 1/10 second. The 1/10 second speed could be divided into 1/2, 1/15, and 1/10 by varying the input, while the slower speeds of 1/4, 1/2, and full second with the ratchet engaged retained their operational function189. As a result, the shutter was quieter and operated more smoothly, with no separate actions necessary to switch it into slow mode. Photographers could reliably handheld wide-angle shots at a full 1/10 seconds, and many also utilized this slower speed with 50mm lenses. Interestingly, the heavier the lens, the steadier the camera became. Consequently, Leica photographers effectively gained a full stop of speed when handheld at 1/10 seconds in low light, compared to the previous limitation of 1/20 seconds. This was particularly useful when the fastest black-and-white film of the time had an ISO rating of less than 80189.

Early wartime IIIc cameras had click-stops but lacked a lock, allowing the dial to be easily nudged in either direction from the 1/20 mark. However, later wartime models included a lock feature to prevent this problem189.


Ball Bearings

Leica IIIc was the first Leica to make use of multiple ball bearing races189 in the shutter100. Some experts believe that late wartime IIIc cameras with serial numbers starting from 388926 have ball bearing shutters, while others argue that this feature began with serial number 392000230. The postwar IIIc and IIIf Black Dial cameras featured only the upper kugellager, while the IIIf Red Dial cameras and subsequent IIIg series incorporated both sets of ball bearings230.


Shutter Blinds

The first 1576 cameras, with serial numbers ranging from 360175 to 362400, were produced up until October 1939 and featured black shutter blinds made in Germany. Starting from serial number 362401, Leitz began using an existing supply of Kodak shutter-blind material, which was dyed red on one side. This cloth had previously been used experimentally in the Leica III Model F and Leica IIIa Model G during tests for heat resistance conducted in 1937360.

By July 1941, the supply of Kodak blind material was exhausted, and a new black material, made from German parachute cloth, was used in all IIIC cameras starting from serial number 379,226. Today, IIIC cameras with red blinds are rare, which is surprising given that nearly fourteen thousand cameras—about half of the wartime production—were fitted with them, even allowing for almost forty years of use360.


Shutter Release Button

The shutter release button had a revolving dot indicating the correct direction to wind the shutter mechanism360. Later models had a wider non-removable release guard57. The collar around the release button remained in place when using a cable release. This improvement was implemented during wartime before 1946189.

In 1940, starting with serial number 363,801, the classic non-return coil spring on the winding shaft was replaced by a pawl and ratchet, a device reminiscent of Barnack's "Null-Serie" cameras, but with quieter operation. Camera number 374,501, produced in 1941, was the first to feature a double-threaded collar around the shutter release button, allowing a cable release to be attached without removing the standard protective collar360.

At the end of 1941, around serial number 380,000, the baseplate indentation and catch reverted to the classic round design. A lock button was added to the slow-speed dial at serial number 380,901. Most importantly, this period marked the introduction of the first K series IIIC cameras360.


Shutter Speed Lever

A slow-speed lock was added at 1/30 seconds during wartime before 1946 to prevent accidental engagement of slower speeds if the dial was inadvertently nudged189.

The top shutter dial was also improved and now could be turned in either direction through the B setting, allowing for quick adjustments to any speed without hitting a stop189 .

Some later IIIc featured self-timer57.

Leica IIIc has a tiny worm-gear adjustment for the shutter curtain tension springs, which allows for an infinite range of easily adjustable settings189.


Exposure Counter

The IIIc boasted an improved exposure counter that was easier to set yet more resistant to being unset during rapid winding189.


Die-cast Frame

Until the introduction of the IIIc, earlier cameras were constructed using thin brass plate stampings, with each part painstakingly hand-assembled and secured with tiny screws. The lens-to-film distance was individually shimmed and adjusted for each camera, as minor variations in production led to differences between units. It became evident that the front of these older cameras could bend under the demands of new photojournalism, particularly when using heavier lenses, indicating that the camera's structural integrity was insufficient189. The IIIc (and IIId) were the first two Leicas to use a precision machined188 die-cast and machined aluminum alloy shutter crate along with a heavy machined alloy front plate to prevent bending189 rather than stamped brass100. This die-cast frame was structurally much stronger, allowing it to better support the weight of heavy lenses. This improvement greatly enhanced the camera’s performance, benefiting users significantly188. Also, the die-cast frame replaced the assembly of numerous small parts, making production more economical188. The entire assembly was machined with precision, which minimized the need for shimming under the lens flange189. The more weatherproof347 single-piece top cover provided better sealing against dirt and moisture189.


Sharkskin Covering

Many Leica enthusiasts and collectors have observed that cameras in a specific serial number range of postwar IIIc models feature a noticeably different body covering compared to all the other vulcanite coverings used by Leitz up to that time171. As it turns out, Between 1948-1951 the Leica IIIc frequently utilized the distinctively textured "sharkskin" vulcanite259.

This material has a grain that seems to be oriented vertically and feels somewhat rough to the touch. Its resemblance to a particular type of leather has led to it being referred to as "sharkskin." It appears that IIIc cameras produced shortly after the war often had this type of covering171. The reason for switching to the sharkskin cover is unclear, but it has been suggested that it was intended to enhance the user's grip on the camera. While the grip improvement offered by the sharkskin covering is minimal, the "feel" of the camera is noticeably different compared to the earlier coverings188. An alternative consideration might be the quest for a material that is more durable than the pebble grain material. If this was indeed the case, the search was successful, as the sharkskin covers have demonstrated remarkable durability. Typically, these covers are found in excellent condition, showing minimal signs of wear, even on heavily used cameras188.


Body Shell Screws

Postwar IIIc also featured the reduction of the body shell screws from five to four. This marked the beginning of the end for chrome body shell screws on screw-mount cameras188.


Rewind lever

The postwar IIIc closely resembles the wartime version, with two notable exceptions. The platform beneath the advance/rewind lever has been removed. Additionally, while the platform under the film rewind knob remains, the small knurled knob on the diopter adjustment lever has been eliminated. These are the only two external differences between the wartime IIIc and the early postwar IIIc cameras188.


Viewfinder

The IIIc model utilized the viewfinder system featuring closely positioned eyepieces. This design allowed for a longer viewing path due to the prism system, which improved edge sharpness in the viewfinder and provided a clearer idea of the frame's content. The close-set eyepieces enabled a 1.5x magnification in the rangefinder, ensuring accuracy when using fast and long lenses, while also minimizing parallax between the eyepieces during quick shooting. The centerlines of the lens and the viewfinder were only slightly more than an inch apart347, leading to a maximum error of just about an inch at the closest focusing distance of one meter189. As a result, the Leica camera was especially easy to focus when using longer lenses such as 85mm, 95mm, and 135mm189. The IIIc featured diopter adjustment lever for the rangefinder eyepiece located at the base of the rewind knob347.


Flash

If flash photography was desired, the IIIc could be synchronized for flashbulbs using various attachments connected to the speed dial, or by employing the Leitz New York synchronizing baseplate SELIS (model VIIIa) after 1947. The SELIS was capable of handling a wide range of flashbulbs at all shutter speeds, including a 30th of a second, which was suitable for the new strobe lights that were just beginning to emerge at that time347.


Deliveries

This camera was used by Germany during World War II and remained available to the general public after the war171. Due to the circumstances, very few of these cameras were exported to countries that were enemies of Germany. As a result, most users were not familiar with this latest product from Wetzlar188. Jim Lager has suggested that this wartime secrecy may have contributed to the initial mislabeling of the IIIc samples. However, as the war progressed and the need for cash grew, the policy of restricting exports outside the Axis countries began to diminish333. Inspection of delivery ledgers preserved at Leica Solms indicates that the Leica IIIc and IIId (serial number range 360001 -390000) were shipped to at least thirty countries outside of Germany between 1940 and 1944262. Author's preliminary research confirms the following delivery destinations for these cameras: Albania, Japan, Austria, Latvia, Belgium, Luxembourg, Bulgaria, Manchukuo (Manchuria), Chile, China, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Finland, France, Gilbert Islands, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Iran, the Netherlands, Norway, Peru, Poland, Portugal (56 cameras333), Romania, Spain (24 cameras333), Sweden (149 cameras333), Switzerland (100+ cameras333), Turkey, and Yugoslavia. It’s certain that many of these cameras were brought back by American military personnel returning home262. It's also known that at least 38 cameras that went to the Spanish Embassy in Berlin, with most of them delivered between April and July 1943. The serial numbers identified so far are333

387031

389662

389677

389702

387453

389663

389678

389703

388196

389664

389679

389704

388197

389665

389680

389705

388198

389666

389681

389707

388199

389667

389682

389708

388200

389668

389683

389709

389515

389669

389684

389710

389661

389670

389685

389712

 

389676

 

389716


An investigation of delivery records at the Leitz Park Archive reveals information about shipments made to the Leitz Agency Schmidt for Shanghai, China, and Mukden, Manchukuo (Japanese-occupied Manchuria). During 1942 and 1943, World War II continued, and Germany and Japan maintained trade relations. The records indicate shipments of the Leica IIIc with Elmar (LOOGI), Summitar (LOOQA), and Xenon (LOOSB) lenses. It is reasonable to assume these shipments were transported by sea—either via surface vessels or submarines—in hopes of evading the Allied blockade. The Leicas likely departed from German-occupied territory, almost certainly from French ports, rounded Africa, crossed the South Atlantic, and continued their perilous journey to Shanghai and Mukden. The trip undoubtedly took months. Hundreds of IIIc cameras were dispatched, with serial numbers 384851- 386715 (approximately). The principal shipment is dated June 24, 1942. Cameras with serial numbers 384851-384867 (May 15, 1942) may display an asterisk, indicating a second delivery. Additionally, forty LOOQA cameras, with serial numbers 385058-385076 and 385078-385098, were sent to Mukden on January 7, 1943344.

Leica IIIc cameras can be found with the letters "N-L" or "S-T" engraved on the top cover, located between the "D.R.P." (Deutsches Reichspatent) and "Ernst Leitz" engravings. The "S-T" marking stands for "Spécialités Tiranty," indicating official importation by Tiranty, the Leitz agent for France. On the other hand, the "N-L" marking represents "Netherlands" ("Nederlande"), signifying official importation by Odin, the Leitz agent for the Netherlands. In a letter received from Odin in 1979, it was confirmed that the "N-L" engraving was performed by Leitz in Wetzlar. It is highly likely that Leitz also engraved the "S-T" marking291.


Variations

The changes pertain to modifications and variations of Postwar Leica IIIc in four areas188:

  1. the engraving on the top plate
    • Early - no "Germany" engraved on the top plate188
    • Later - "Germany" was engraved on the top plate188
  2. the accessory shoe
    • Early - Thin accessory shoe combined with a thin spacer188
    • Later - Thick accessory shoe with no spacer188
  3. the covering of the body shell
    • Early - Pebble grain vulcanite body covering188
    • Later - "Sharkskin" grain vulcanite body covering188
  4. the number of screws used to secure the body shell to the die-cast frame
    • Early - Five screws securing the body shell to the die-cast frame. Two front, two rear, and one end, under the film advance knob188
    • Later - Four screws secure the body shell to the die-cast frame. Two front and two rear. The end screw was eliminated188

The author has confirmed at least five types of postwar IIIc bodies. These types were identified by assigning the appropriate variation number from the list provided to each camera examined. This list does not claim to include all possible types; it is entirely possible that more than five types exist based on these variations. In fact, there are strong indications that an unconfirmed sixth type may also exist188:

  • Type 1 had:
    1. No “Germany” engraved on the top plate188
    2. thin accessory shoe with a thin spacer188
    3. pebble gram body shell cover188
    4. five body shell screws188
  • Type 2 had:
    1. “Germany” engraved on the top plate188
    2. thin accessory shoe with a thin spacer188
    3. pebble grain body shell cover188
    4. five body shell screws188
  • Type 3 had:
    1. Germany engraved on the top plate188
    2. thick accessory shoe with no spacer188
    3. pebble grain body shell cover188
    4. five body shell screws188
  • Type 4 had:
    1. Germany engraved on the top plate188
    2. thick accessory shoe with no spacer188
    3. sharkskin grain body shell cover188
    4. five body shell screws188
  • Type 5 had:
    1. Germany engraved on the top plate188
    2. thick accessory shoe with no spacer188
    3. sharkskin grain body shell cover188
    4. four body shell screws188

The postwar IIIC cameras, starting from serial number 400,001 (produced in 1945), do not feature the distinctive platform below the A-R lever found in earlier models. They also lack a knob on the diopter adjustment lever and have the baseplate lock instructions engraved in both German and English. From serial number 425,001 (produced in 1948), most parts of the IIIC became interchangeable with those of the IIIF series. Around serial number 430,000 (produced in 1948-1949), a stop pin was added next to the A of the A-R lever. Some IIIC cameras produced between 1950 and 1951 are equipped with a IIIF BD ('black dial') type frame counter, which has its 'pips' located at the 17 and 37 positions, rather than the traditional 7 and 27. The last IIIC cameras manufactured (up to serial number 525,000 in 1951) were fitted with a key-type baseplate lock360.


Evolution

The following serial numbers mark milestones in the evolution of IIIc cameras of the “15er” ("fünfzehner") variety, also known as the pedestal IIIc60:

  • Camera with serial number 362401 - Red shutter blinds have been introduced60.
  • Camera with serial number 363801 - The check pawl on the winding shaft replaces the check spring60.
  • Camera with serial number 374501 - The shutter release guard has been changed to a non-removable type60.
  • Camera with serial number 379226 - Black shutter blinds have replaced the red blinds60.
  • Camera with serial number 380901 - Added a slow speed lock at 1/30 of a second setting to the slow shutter speed dial60.


The Leitz Eigentum Leica IIIc

A specific batch of serial numbers ranging from 517,404 to 517,436 was designated for a special model of the Leica IIIC, known as the Leitz Eigentum ('Leitz property') IIIC. These cameras were lent to select clients and institutions as temporary replacements for cameras undergoing repairs360. 

Notably, there is a gap in the Hahne list between serial numbers 517,400 (produced between 1948 and 1950) and 517,526 (produced in 1956). Although this batch includes a total of thirty-two cameras, factory records indicate that only eleven were actually issued: 517,404; 517,408; 517,411 to 517,413; 517,422; 517,427 to 517,430; and 517,436360. 

Author believes these post-war IIICs were originally unsold units that were subsequently fitted with the latest technical innovations for loan purposes. The Leitz Eigentum IIIC features a non-raised platform design, a IIIF BD synchronization plate, a PC flash socket, and does not include a delayed action mechanism. Considering these mechanical updates, along with the nearby batches of serial numbers, it is reasonable to date this camera to approximately 1950-1952, aligning with the production period of the IIIF black-dial model360.

The Leitz Eigentum IIIC features a black finish, with the engraving filled in white paint. Some examples are equipped with a 5cm f3.5 Elmar lens marked 'Leitz Eigentum'360.


Comparison to Other Models

There is some uncertainty regarding the nomenclature of the Leica IIIc and Leica IIId cameras360. The Leica IIId was released first, bearing the serial number 360002 in 1939, while the Leica IIIC followed closely at serial number 360175 in the same year360. Both models feature an internal die-cast structure and include provisions for a delayed-action mechanism; however, only the Leica IIId actually comes equipped with this feature360. It remains unclear whether the Leica IIIc was intended as a lower-priced option or if the delayed-action mechanism was deemed unreliable or unpopular360. 

The post-war Leica IIIc, beginning with serial number 400001, while outwardly similar to the wartime model, is not mechanically interchangeable with it360. Instead, it shares compatibility with the later IIIf series, starting from serial number 425001360. It is possible that these post-war IIIc cameras could have alternatively been classified as IIIe360.


Closing Remarks

The Leica IIIc was produced until 1951, when it was replaced by the IIIf171. The total production of Leica IIIC cameras was approximately 134,624, comprising 33,748 units produced from 1939 to 1945 and 100,876 units from 1946 to 1951360.


Gifts and Special Editions

In 1946, Dr. Wilhelm Schneider was awarded a Leica IIIc with serial number 400000 to replace his lost Leica IIIb, which had the serial number 35000048.

The Wartime Leica IIIc camera with the serial number 375000 was once owned by Field Marshal Erwin Rommel. Leitz presented this camera to Rommel in 1943. Interestingly, when the first camera was lost en route to Africa, they presented him with a second camera bearing the same serial number. This makes it one of the rarest Military Leicas in existence157.

Leica IIIc with serial number of 450000 was produced as a presentation camera188 was presented to Richard Schirrmann in 1949258.

Leica IIIc with serial number 500000 was presented to Ernst Leitz II in 1950243.


Military

In the three weeks following the German capitulation on May 7, 1945, at least 45 deliveries were recorded, with some destined for individual U.S. Army officers. These cameras have specific code identifications267:

  1. LOOGI (IIIc with 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens (ELMAR)) code was used before June/July 1945267
  2. LOOQA (IIIc with 50mm f/2 Summitar lens(SOORE)) codewas used before June/July 1945267
  3. LOOPN (IIIc with 50mm f/3.5 Elmar lens (ELMAR)) code was used after June/July 1945267
  4. LOOKX (IIIc with 50mm f/2 Summitar lens (SOORE)) code was used after June/July 1945267

Although the year 1942 is commonly cited as the date for the introduction of the IIIcK camera, production of two batches—totaling sixty ball-bearing IIIC cameras—actually began in September 1941. Starting with serial number 387,101, these cameras were specifically designed for use in low-temperature conditions. The ball-bearing (Kugellager) cameras typically had a capital letter "K" engraved after the serial number, and a large white (or rarely red) "K" was printed on the second shutter blind. Officially, production of the IIIcK cameras concluded in 1945, with the final serial number being approximately 392,000. However, it is possible that a few isolated cameras were produced afterward. Estimates of the total number of IIIcK cameras made range from a minimum of 2,700 to a maximum of 5,000360.

At approximately serial no. 392,000 (1945) a hybrid variant of the IIIcK appeared, with only partially ball-bearinged shutters. These examples, known to the cognoscenti as 'half-race' cameras, set the pattern for later IIICs and also the IIIFs. Two final serial numbers of the 'half-race' cameras appear in various Leitz records-namely 697,607 and 697,650360.

cordMany grey IIIC and IIIcK cameras were supplied to the military purchasing office of the German forces in Berlin. As noted previously, military identification marks were engraved on these cameras. Each camera was first engraved with a contract number, often beginning with "FL 38078." Following this, one of several identification marks was engraved, depending on which military branch the batch was designated for: Heer (Army), Artl (Artillery), M (Marine or Navy), Luftwaffen Eigentum (Air Force Property), or W. Haven (referring to Wilhelmshaven, the naval base). Eagles and swastikas were also used as part of the markings. These engravings typically appeared on the top plate, though they could sometimes be found stamped into the vulcanite body covering360. 

Most of these cameras were intended for standard military formations. However, there were occasions when units engaged in special operations required specially prepared cameras. One example is a IIIcK that was part of a small batch for a paratroop operation, which is notable for the lack of any special markings360. 

It is quite challenging to find service models of the IIIC and IIIcK that are in good condition. Many specimens were sold off after the war, and new owners often obliterated the service markings360.

Germany formally surrendered on May 7, 1945. On this day, Ernst Leitz Wetzlar began official deliveries of Leica equipment to the occupying Allied Forces. Among these deliveries were approximately 527 the grey-painted IIIcK models272. The IIIcK is a highly sought-after collectible among Leica enthusiasts, whether in grey paint or chrome finishes, regardless of military markings. These cameras were produced exclusively between 1941 and 1943 and are designed to withstand cold temperatures. Initially, collectors speculated that the 'K' stood for 'kaltefest,' which means 'cold-hardened.' However, it has been confirmed that 'K' refers to 'Kugellager,' which translates to 'ball-bearing.'The IIIcK cameras feature ball-raced shutters that enhance their performance in cold weather. Typically, K cameras are identified by a factory-engraved 'K' following the serial number and a stencilled 'K' on the first shutter blind, which becomes visible after the shutter is wound230. The letter "K" also appeared after the serial number on some grey and chrome Leica motors for the Leica IIIc. The first motor with this marking was delivered on May 29, 1942. This date is noted in the assembly foreman's notebook, which was recorded eight months after the previously mentioned entries. It is the first instance where the term "kaltefest" (cold-proof) is actually used. Only the IIIc has the letter "K" engraved on the top plate and/or stamped on the first shutter curtain. Typically, the "K" appears in both locations; however, there are instances where it is found only on the first shutter curtain. Occasionally, a camera may have the "K" only on the top cover without it being stamped on the first shutter curtain. In such cases, it can be assumed that the original "K"-stamped curtain has been replaced52. There has been extensive discussion regarding these shutters, some of which can be confusing and occasionally contradictory. This includes debates over whether the shutters are half-raced or fully raced, the presence of a "K" or no "K" marking, and which features of the IIIcK were carried over into the post-war IIIc's and IIIf's. Additional insights into the K cameras come from noted Leica repairman Don Goldberg, who mentions that some, but not all, of these bodies are equipped with ball bearings on the wind or rewind knob shafts—or both. He noted, "I'm not sure how they functioned at 30 below, but at room temperature, winding and rewinding are noticeably rougher than with non-K cameras." It is likely that the IIIcK models were fully ball-raced to withstand extreme temperature stresses while still operating smoothly, as mentioned earlier. The use of ball bearings in the shutter offers several advantages, including enhanced shutter accuracy under normal conditions, an extended shutter lifespan, and a reduced need for servicing. However, it is uncertain whether there was ever an intention to ball race the shutters of other wartime IIIc models. At least some of the very late versions appear to have been single-raced. When the IIIc was redesigned after the war, only the ball racing of the second blind was retained. The reasons for this decision remain unclear: was it due to economic factors, the availability of precision bearings, or perhaps something related to shutter physics? Specifically, since the first blind experiences higher spring tension than the second blind, ball racing its bearings may have less impact during normal use compared to doing the same for the second blind230.

Jim Lager's research as of mid-1980 has revealed various "versions" of the Luftwaffen Leica of model IIIc104:

  • Chrome IIIc with old style Luftwaffen-Eigentum engraving104
  • Chrome IIIc with new style Luftwaffen-Eigentum engraving104
  • Chrome IIIc K type104
  • Chrome IIIc with Luftwaffen-Eigentum engraving on vulcanite104
  • Grey Leica IIIc104
  • Grey Leica IIIc K type104


During World War II, two variations of the Leica IIIc were utilized as panoramic cameras, identified as E1 and E2. The E2 version was based on the grey IIIcK and was engraved with W.H. or WH280.

Below is the list of some known military Leica IIIc cameras:

  • Leica IIIc camera with serial number 361528 dating year 1940 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Heavy, bold letters on vulcanite225
  • Leica IIIc camera with serial number 361710 dating year 1940 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Stylized font engraved on top cover225
  • Leica IIIc camera with serial number 364064 dating year 1940 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Stylized font, but Fl. No. 38079 is traditional225
  • Leica IIIc camera with serial number 365740 dating year 1940 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Fl. No. 38079 in stylized font225
  • Between May and November 1945, Leica IIIc cameras with serial numbers ranging from 367325 to 367500 were delivered to the U.S. Army. Additionally, two cameras from this batch were likely sold to non-military customers in February and July 1946267 
  • Additional materials located in the Ernst Leitz Wetzlar archives indicate that thirty IIIc cameras with serial numbers ranging from 381051 to 381080 were prepared in 1941 with a special modification to the film gate. This modification includes fiducial points that protrude into the film area at both the top and bottom of the frame. Delivery records confirm that these thirty IIIc cameras were shipped to Berlin on September 16, 1941, under shipment number 25857. The entry is noted as "LOOGI WH," referring to the IIIc model with a 5mm f/3.5 Elmar lens. The designation "WH" unequivocally stands for "Wehrmacht Heer," which means "armed forces army"280
  • Cameras with serial numbers 381060 contain the modified film gate. Although the triple prongs have been broken off, they would have originally projected into the film area when unaltered280
  • In July 1991, Christie's auctioned a chrome Leica IIIc with serial number 381063, which was conspicuously engraved with "WH" on the rear of the top cover280
  • Leica IIIc camera with serial number 381615 dating year 1941 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Traditional font engraved on top cover225
  • Leica IIIc-K in chrome camera with serial number 387103K dating year 1942 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Traditional font engraved on top cover225
  • Leica IIIc in grey colour camera with serial number 388012 dating year 1942 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Traditional font engraved on top cover225
  • Leica IIIc-K in grey colour camera with serial number 389079K dating year 1942 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Traditional font engraved on top cover225
  • Leica IIIc-K in grey colour camera with serial number 389837K dating year 1943 with "Fl. No. 38079" engraving had "Luftwaffen-Eigentum" ("Property of the Air Force") marking in the following style: Traditional font engraved on top cover. Shows evidence of paint overlay225
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390080 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390103 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390181 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390185 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390200 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390250 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390256 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390316 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • Grey-painted IIIcK camera with serial number 390440 was part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • 10 Grey-painted IIIcK cameras with serial numbers between 390451 and 390460 were part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • 5 Grey-painted IIIcK cameras with serial numbers between 390467 and 390471 were part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • 27 Grey-painted IIIcK cameras with serial numbers between 390473 and 390499 were part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272
  • 475 Grey-painted IIIcK cameras with serial numbers between 390526 and 391000 were part of a batch delivered to the U.S. Army personnel from sergeants to generals in the period from May 1945 to February 1946 following formal surrender of Germany on May 7, 1945272