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Specification

Manufacturer description #1

Model IIIa Leica Camera (known as the Model G) has the same shutter speed arrangement as on the Model IIIb. The eyepieces of the rangefinder and viewfinder, however, are not close together but separated (1 1/2 inch apart). The rangefinder focusing lever is on the eyepiece of the rangefinder instead of below the rewind knob. Top and bottom plates finished in satin chrome.

Manufacturer description #2

As model III, but with additional shutter speed 1/1000 sec. Serial No. from 156201.

Manufacturer description #3

The model G LEICA boasts of an extremely wide range of shutter speeds from 1 full second to 1/1000th of a second - speeds to more than accommodate every possible photographic condition which is likely to arise. The standard speeds (1/20 to 1/1,000) are controlled by a shutter indicator dial located on the top of the LEICA camera, while the slow range speeds (1 to 1/20) are controlled by a secondary dial situated on the front of the camera adjacent to the lens and close to the top. The slow range of speeds (from 1 to 1/20th) permit a continuous range of speeds; for example, 1/6th of a second exposure can be secured by setting the dial between the 1/4 and 1/8 marks. Thus any desired speed can accurately be obtained in the slow range of speeds.

The shutter, made of a special rubberized cloth material, withstands all climates, wears indefinitely, does not produce "flare" at the higher speeds, and is practically silent in operation. It is indeed a triumph of camera manufacture.

Points to remember about the Leica:

• The size of the LEICA overall is: 1 1/8 x 2 1/8 x 5 1/4 in. Small enough to be carried inconspicuously in the pocket or hand-bag.
• Weight, complete: 18 oz.
• Shutter speeds: controlled by only two dials, conveniently situated. Regular speed dial on top of camera indicates speeds from 1/20 to 1/500th (1/1000th on model G) second. Slow speed dial on front of camera indicates speeds from 1 to 1/20th second.
• All-metal construction assures freedom from warping and breaking - a special alloy sees to it that the LEICA is as rugged as it is practical, yet as precision-made as the finest watch.
• Automatic focusing range finder: The Autofocal feature of the automatic focusing range finder, which is built into the LEICA, means sharp, crispy-clear pictures every time. Each LEICA lens couples automatically with this device and assures freedom from fuzzy results.
• The interchangeability of lenses: makes the LEICA instantly suitable for every kind of photography, is a highly-important feature. All lenses are standardized and screw into the LEICA lens mount interchangeably and positively. The screw-thread type of fitting was chosen after long consideration of bayonet and other types. Long-wear, positive action, and complete satisfaction are assured by the screw-thread mount, hence chosen for the LEICA.
• Simplicity: the key-note of the LEICA. The design of the camera permits loading with the greatest of ease plus absolute assurety. You can't load the LEICA in any but the right way.
• The film material: used in the LEICA is the standard 35mm cinema film stock, obtainable all over the world. The LEICA does not make movies, but individual negatives 1 x 1 1/2 in. Up to thirty six exposures can be made with one loading. Film material for the LEICA is put up in daylight loading and unloading cartridges, making it very easy for the LEICA owner to load and unload his camera.
• Handling the LEICA: a positive pleasure. The simplicity with which the controls work, plus their smooth, positive action are real treats, especially to those who have used other cameras and can therefore make comparisons. The shape of the camera proper permits the LEICA to nestle comfortably and steadily in the hands. Like lightning, pictures can be made almost as quickly as the mind conceives them, without removing the LEICA from its operating position in front of the eyes.
• Accessories: play an important part, and it can easily be understood that the more than four-hundred accessories for the LEICA make it possible for it to be used in every photographic field.

From the editor

The same as the Leica III (Model F), but with top shutter speed of 1/1000th second. Before the Leica IIIa, Leitz cameras had the shortest shutter speed of 1/500th second.

The Leica IIIa was produced from 1935 to 1948 with a total of 91,087 cameras in chrome finish. 800 units were also made in black finish in 1935 for export.

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