Luftwaffen-Eigentum. Is this model authentic?

[christopherswink]

I have acquired a 1938 IIIa serial number 273063 with an Fl. No. 38081 and Luftwaffen-Eigentum inscribed on the back of the top plate. I have been told it is a fake engraving on a real IIIa as the Fl number is not 38078 or 38079 as well as the inscribed font is not what Leica used. This model came from a very large collection of over a few thousand mint to near mint high ens cameras from the late 1800’s to the present day. It is possible that this person possibly purchased a counterfeit in his years of collecting and did not know. I have checked the my Collectors Checklist of Leica Cameras, Lenses, and Accessories. And it seems that Leica did ship some IIIa models to the Luftwaffen between 1938 and 1940. Please correct me if I am wrong. I am waiting to here back on production and shipment dates on this model from the Leica Archives. It would be greatly appreciated if someone could help in this matter. Best. Chris

 

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Email Classic Store Leica, they are quick to respond: classicstore.wetzlar (at) leica-camera.com

 

[christopherswink]

Email Classic Store Leica, they are quick to respond: classicstore.wetzlar (at) leica-camera.com

Thank you. I appreciate it. Is there anyway to edit a thread title? Looks like my title is suffering from dyslexia. I could have sworn I did not type it like it posted.

 

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Edited!

 

[christopherswink]

Edited!

Thank you!

 

[Photar]

FWIW: There are only three IIIa cameras listed in the Cane list of LTM cameras with military engravings. The serial numbers are 315353 to 315355 ( the earliest serial numbers in the whole list). However, as far as I understand, it is not clear whether these three cameras have original military engravings. Fl. No. 38081 is not mentioned in the list.