Rare collector’s items are up for bids at the 46th Leitz Photographica Auction
Leica is celebrating 100 years of the Leica I, and a rare prototype produced before the Leica I went into series production – the Leica 0-Series No. 112 will be put up for auction at the 46th Leitz Photographica Auction. The Leica 0-Series cameras were given the serial numbers 101 to 125m and only around half of the 24 pieces are still in existence. It’s one of the most notable lots in the upcoming auction, valued at an estimated price of €1.5 to €2 million.
At the auction held at Leica World in Wetzlar on 27 June, collectors can also look forward to other remarkable Leica cameras up for bids, including a 100-year-old Leica I. Mod. A Anastigmat. With an estimated valuation price between €100,000 and €120,000, the Leica I Mod. A Anastigmat with serial number 225 is the 100th Leica series camera ever produced, a perfect fit with the theme of the Leica anniversary event. It is also likely the first Leica to make its way to the UK, delivered to the British marketing and advertising agency Ogilvy way back in 1925.
Another highlight is the Leica M with the first serial number of this legendary camera model – the Leica M3 with serial number 700,000. Once passed on to renowned sports photographer and ski pioneer Prof. Stefan Kruckenhauser as a gift, this M3 has an estimated valuation price between €500,000 and €600,000.
All eyes are also expected to be on the charity lot provided by the auction house. British designer John Dowell, also known as King Nerd and famed for his engravings on luxury products, immortalised the Leitz Park, headquarters of Leica Camera AG, on the camera in his inimitable handwriting. All proceeds from this one-of-a-kind Leica MP will go to the “Licht ins Dunkel” association. The valuation price is estimated at between €14,000 and €15,000.
The 46th Leitz Photographica Auction will take place on 27 June 2025 at 12 pm CEST (6pm SGT) at Leica World in Wetzlar. Interested bidders can register in advance at www.leitz-auction.com/auction. Bids can be made in advance online at www.leitz-auction.com, in writing or over the phone, while live bids can be made during the auction on www.leitz-auction.com and www.liveauctioneers.com.
Images courtesy of Leica, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
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