Not to mention that I have never seen one that is so complete. I can not stress the importance and and beauty of this camera. Not only being unique to any other production camera, the MP had a very important place in photographic history as only the BEST OF THE BEST were given the opportunity. Lacking the self time, the external "quick" set frame counter, and the addition of the Leicavit was expertly, and specifically manufactures and designed for the MP at the time, later for the M2. The MP was a derivative but a totally unique production to the M3 and late to come M2 camera. The M3 was considered, and is still considered to be the greatest rangefinder camera ever made. With the M3 double stroke film advance lever, triangular "rabbit ear" lugs, and 50/90/135mm viewfinder frame lines 0.91 magnification.
Leica 50mm summicron serial numbers professional#
Most importantly, this was an M3 with a modified professional construction. The MP is actually a prototype to the M2 where the Leicavit winder was attached and users would be able to shoot up to 2 frames per second without taking their eye off the viewfinder. Given to only select few and important photojournalists around the world and obviously the black paint version, being only 137 examples were the most difficult and coveted to get, and still is to this day. Some say that production stopped at #402 but I have seen original MP chrome camera past #402. In September 1956 and two more batches in 1957, Leica made a total of 450 Leica MP cameras in black paint and silver chrome finish. Regardless of price, this is truly a 35mm photographic marvel and historic masterpiece. Price as high as over $1,000,000 recently for MP #2 - original black painted - and prices range from $350,000-$750,000.
Only a handful of black paint examples have ever been surfaced and sold on the open market. This is THE Leica MP original black paint camera.
Leica 50mm summicron serial numbers code#
Papers, tag and IMOOP proper MP code box. Special Leica case to accommodate the Leicavit. Leica Leicavit MP matching black paint base plate winder Summicron 50mm f2 black paint early Lens serial #1468274 Leica MP #143 original PROFESSIONAL camera and matching P143 inner chasis