Leica M3 Double Stroke Rangefinder Camera Body Only Early Serial-CLAd YYe 11/23 For Sale

First-Year 1954 Leica M3
Double Stroke (SN: 705659) - Fully Serviced & CLA\'d 11/23 by YYe.Up for sale is a rare Leica M3 Double Stroke (DS) rangefinder camera body. Manufactured in 1954—the legendary first year of the M3 system-this camera bears the early serial number 705659, making it the 5,659th Leica M3 ever produced.What makes this specific body a holy grail for collectors is its 100% un-updated, original factory state. Unlike most early M3s that were modernized with metal plates during later decades at Leitz service facilities, this specimen retains all of its purest, rarest first-batch architectural features.Collector Hallmarks & Original Features:
• Original Glass Pressure Plate: The incredibly scarce, highly reflective solid black glass pressure plate is entirely intact, smooth, and free of cracks.
• Pure \"Old Scale\" Shutter Sequence: Retains the traditional European geometric dial numbers (B, 1, 2,
5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, 500, 1000).
• Early Leicameter Notch: Features the deeper coupling indentation embedded directly between the 10 and 25 marks on the dial.
• Golden Film Loading Decal: The distinct early internal housing stamp showing the classic film pull
dimensions ( 11cm = 4%\" ) remains beautiful and
highly legible.Mechanical & Cosmetic Condition:
• Functionality: Mechanically Perfect. The camera has recently undergone a comprehensive, professional CLA (Clean, Lubricate, & Adjust) overhaul. All shutter speeds (including the temperamental slow speeds at 1, 2, and 5) fire accurately.
• Optics: The iconic 0.91x viewfinder is clear. The dual-image rangefinder focusing patch is bright, high-contrast, perfectly aligned
horizontally/vertically, and snaps into focus smoothly
• Cosmetics: In Excellent vintage condition. Minimal honest aging to the original matte chrome dial and frame. The Vulcanite body wrap is completely original, firmly adhered, and intact.
(Please reference high-resolution photos for exact cosmetic detail).Included in Sale:
• Leica M3 Double Stroke Camera Body (SN 705659).
• Original Leica script body capA Shipping & Terms:
Will be securely wrapped, double-boxed, fully insured, and shipped with adult signature confirmation.
International buyers are responsible for all import/customs duties.Please ask all questions before buying as returns are not accepted.