‘Leica rifle’ and more under the hammer
THE 44TH Leitz Photographica Auction is taking place at Leica’s HQ in Wetzlar, Germany, on 8 June.
As with previous years, there are several ‘star’ attractions likely to make big money, notably a black-paint Leica MP2 produced in 1958. Of the 27 examples made as part of a test series, only six were nished in black paint – and serial number 935509 will be going under the hammer in Wetzlar. The MP2 is a modi ed, professional version of the Leica M2, capable of capturing 3.5 pictures per second thanks to a special electric motor drive. The estimate for this historic camera ranges from €700,000 to €800,000.
Also up for grabs is the curious Leitz NY Ri e, which sports a ri e stock originally developed for pre-war wildlife photography. According to expert estimates, fewer than 15 such ‘ri es’ were made. This particular lot also includes a Leica IIIb and a Telyt 5/40cm lens and is estimated to sell for up to €300,000 euros. Then there is a prototype of a reissue of a steel rim Leica Summilux F1.4/35mm lens, estimated to reach a somewhat more affordable €6,000 to €7,000: the proceeds of this sale will be donated to Licht ins Dunkel, an Austrian charity which helps families with kids facing learning, physical and social dif culties.
Bids for the 44th Leitz Photographica Auction can be submitted in advance, either online (www.leitz-auction.com) or in writing. You can also live-bid by telephone or at www.leitzauction.com and www.liveauctioneers.com