Leica II

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Script error: No such module "Infobox".Template:Template otherTemplate:Wikidata imageScript error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters". The Leica II is a Barnack rangefinder camera introduced by Leica in 1932. They were the first Leica cameras with a built-in rangefinder. Several models were produced over the years, in parallel with the Leica III series from 1933.

The Leica II uses a coupled rangefinder distinct from the viewfinder. The viewfinder is set for a 50 mm lens; use of shorter or longer lenses requires installing an alternate viewfinder on the accessory socket.[n 1]

A mere four copies of the gold-plated Leica Luxus II were made. In 2013, one sold at auction in Hong Kong for $HK4 million, after featuring on the BBC's Antiques Roadshow programme.[1][2] The whereabouts of the other three models are not recorded.[2]

The popular Soviet camera, the FED 1, was a clone of the Leica II.

Leica II models
Model name Manufacturing dates Features or improvements
Leica D (Leica II) 1932–1948 like III but without slow speeds on frontal dial File:LEI0150 198 Leica II schwarz - Sn. 67777 1931-M39 front view Umbau von Ic-0.jpg
Leica IIc 1948–1951 Die-cast body like the IIIc
Leica 250 DD Leica II-based Leica 250 Reporter
Leica IIf 1951–1956 Similar to the IIIf, without the slow speed dial File:Old Leica.jpg

Notes

  1. Unification of the rangefinder and the viewfinder occurred with the introduction of the Leica M3, allowing quick framing and focusing in a single operation. The M3 viewfinder is also able to display viewlines for 50, 90 and 135 mm lenses

References

  1. Antiques Roadshow, BBC One, 29 December 2013
  2. a b Script error: No such module "citation/CS1".

External links

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Template:Ernst Leitz GmbH