Which version of Leica I Model C is this?

[rosshj]

Hello,

I've been trying to figure out which version of Leica I Model C this is. The serial number is 59084, which based on this site, was made in 1930. The Leica wiki page lists it as a Model C Non Standard, but there are some characteristics of the camera (square accessory shoe, more modern looking shutter release button) which make it look more like a Model C Standard. The strangest part is that it has a standardized Elmar mounted to it, but the lens mount doesn't have the '0' engraving at the top, which usually means it a Non Standard. It also has the older style rewind knob.

Here are some photos of the camera.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!

 

[Erik van Straten]

It looks like a non-standardized camera with the wrong lens. The square accessory shoe and this type release button are normal for this period. The camera looks like new! But now to find the correct lens, with the number "084" engraved on it. Model IC non standard. The shown lens is much later, 1934 I would say. This is indicated by the font type of the engraved "f".

Maybe it is from an ended collection from wich it parted with the wrong lens on it. Can easily happen.

Erik.

 

[Dralowid]

I wonder if this camera has been repainted or at least touched up? It looks very good indeed, both paint and nickel are excellent but you'd expect some wear, at least on the accessory shoe. In the pictures the screws on the accessory shoe look like they have been undone a few times.

I'd suggest a non standardised camera that has been standardised at some point, the fact that the 'o' is missing is not uncommon.

Congratulations on a good find.

 

[Erik van Straten]

I wonder if this camera has been repainted or at least touched up?

It is not easy to repaint a camera that has Woods metal lettering. The lettering looks perfect, that is why I think that it has its original paint. The small pieces of dust in the paint are quite normal, but usually they are worn down.


Erik.

 

[Davidhel]

Interesting!

I have number 59433 which has been converted to a III. I have always thought mine started life as a Leica I model C non-standardised.

Mine has had a bit more use!!

 

[Steve M.]

My gut feeling is that it's a very good Leica copy/repaint. The screws on the cold shoe have clearly been painted at the same time as the top. Not very smart, as it is going to make unscrewing them difficult to say the least. Those screws should be bare metal.

 

[goamules]

Definitely refinished.

 

[Erik van Straten]

Definitely refinished.

What makes you so sure?


There are some strange things on this camera. It can be constructed recently, but with original parts. It is practically impossible to repaint a black camera with Woods metal lettering that comes out so perfect.


The screws with convex heads are uncommon. That is why I think that it is possible that that the camera was recently constructed from original parts.


Erik.

 

[CameraQuest]

What makes you so sure?


There are some strange things on this camera. It can be constructed recently, but with original parts. It is practically impossible to repaint a black camera with Woods metal lettering that comes out so perfect.


The screws with convex heads are uncommon. That is why I think that it is possible that that the camera was recently constructed from original parts.


Erik.

there are craftspeople who can do expert repaints. I think this is one example. The paint looks too new for this vintage camera.

Enough new parts available to assemble this camera after all these years? that is far far more unlikely.

 

[analoged]

What makes you so sure?


It is practically impossible to repaint a black camera with Woods metal lettering that comes out so perfect.

Erik.

Looks engraved to me!

 

[Erik van Straten]

there are craftspeople who can do expert repaints. I think this is one example. The paint looks too new for this vintage camera.

Enough new parts available to assemble this camera after all these years? that is far far more unlikely.

Well, I did this myself a couple of years ago, a black paint IIIc. The parts were left-overs from Leitz Canada.


Erik.

 

[Erik van Straten]

Looks engraved to me!

No, it is Woods metal. See the LTM thread.


Erik.