Talk:M3

The Leica M3 was introduced in 1954, Code name is IGEMO catalog number 10680E, The first production model being number 700 000, last number 1 158 995 when general production ceased in 1956. The M3 was the first production model using a bayonet type lens mount, a 30° turn locking the lens in position. Viewfinder / range finder system sharing a common eyepiece with brightline frames for 50,90 and135mm focal lengths, each with automatic parallax adjustment. A rapid wind lever which with two short strokes wound on the film and tensioned the shutter. On changing the film the counter reset automaticly to -2 and the camera back was hinged to provide acces for ilm loading. Flash syncronisation is automatic, separate contacts for expendable and electronics flash units The shutter speeds from B to 1/1000 of a second are incorporated in a single dial.

There were some variations during the production run and I would like to illustrate them in the same time as the 35mm focal lengths and coupled Leicameters.

First model from 700 000 to 785 890 have no manual frame selector incorporated, back door with glass plate film pressure. Long lever rewind lever sided by a screw. Rewind knob with sloted and red painted axe. The Summaron 3.5/35 lens bayonet mount first model, SOONC-M, 1954 issued, red painted dot on the flange, with UVa filter, cap and ITDOO sunshade, SBLOO reflecting mirror viewfinder, second model, And German catalog. jc_braconi