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Description

This 1955 Leica M3 Double Stroke is an early example of one of the most celebrated 35mm rangefinder cameras ever produced. Known for its exceptional mechanical precision, bright viewfinder and superb build quality, the M3 set the standard for the entire Leica M system.
This example, serial number 745879, dates from the first production year and features the original double‑stroke film advance. It has been recently serviced, ensuring smooth operation, accurate shutter speeds and reliable film transport. A highly desirable camera for both collectors and photographers who appreciate the feel of a fully mechanical Leica in excellent working order.

Condition

Overall Condition: Very Good
The camera shows light cosmetic wear consistent with age but remains in excellent mechanical condition. The shutter fires accurately across the range, the double‑stroke advance is smooth and the viewfinder is bright with clear frame lines and correct rangefinder alignment.
All controls operate as expected, and the recent service ensures dependable performance. The body covering is intact and secure, very small piece missing to left side.

Included

Leica M3 Double Stroke body (serial number 745879)
Front cap

Collector’s Notes

Early double‑stroke Leica M3 bodies are highly sought after, representing the beginning of the M‑series legacy. The 1955 production year places this example among the earliest batches, making it particularly appealing to collectors.
The M3 is widely regarded as one of the finest mechanical rangefinders ever built, and serviced examples like this offer both historical significance and practical usability for film photographers.

Key Features

1955 Leica M3 Double Stroke body
Serial number 745879
Fully mechanical shutter
Bright viewfinder with accurate rangefinder
Smooth double‑stroke film advance
Classic Leica build quality

SEO‑Optimised Keywords

Leica M3 1955, Leica M3 Double Stroke, Leica M3 serviced, Leica M3 serial 745879, vintage Leica rangefinder, Leica M3 UK, collectible Leica camera, classic Leica M, mechanical Leica M3, Leica film camera.

Photographs of item

Note that all the photographs are of the item for sale that you will receive. If you notice that the photographs in any way do not match the title or description please contact me and let me know.

Equipment Testing

I will carry out a standard set of testing for all equipment I am selling and will highlight any issues found as well as the perceived condition of the item. Not all tests will be appropriate for a specific camera or lens, but the appropriate ones will be carried out.

	Test
Digital Camera	Camera powers on with no errors It is possible to write to memory card It is possible to read from memory card Inspect test image for any noticeable sensor issues Standard controls/buttons work LCD screens work and display correctly The viewfinder is clear If the camera uses removable lenses, test that lenses mount correctly and functions work.
Film Camera	Test that the camera winds on Does the shutter release Test the shutter through all speeds and note whether the speed varies appropriately (speed accuracy not tested or guarenteed) Shutter curtains open and close as expected Self timer functions If the cameras has a light meter that the meter works and varies appropriately (accuracy of meter not tested or guarenteed) Condition of the viewfinder Condition of the mirror Rangefinder functions correctly Bellows condition (specifically looking for cracks and light leaks)
Lens	Shine a bright light through and check for fungus, haze, dust and scratches Attach the lens to an appropriate camera body Test the function of aperture ( does it open and close appropriately) Test the function of focus (AF and Manual) Function of zoom Is movement excessively stiff or loose

Equipment Grading

Grade	Condition
Mint	As new condition, no marks, fully working
Excellent	very minor usage marks detected, fully working
Very good	Some minor usage marks or small scratches, fully working
Good	Marks consistent with use, minor wear on edges, small scratches, fully working
Fair	Heavier wear marks, possibly some minor issues with functionality, but usable
Poor	Heavy wear, not fully working, would require work, should be considered as a renovation project

Notes of Condition

Please note the following:

All the equipment we are selling is used and unless specifically stated it has not been serviced.
Most older lenses will have some degree of dust.
Film cameras will not have had any light seals replaced and they will most likely be degraded, for optimum performance they should be replaced.
We will not specifically note individual marks on a piece of equipment, please refer the the photographs.

Shipping

Shipping

The item will be shipped within 2 working days after your payment has been received & cleared. It will often be sent quicker than this.

All items will be sent securely packaged. Please note that although the majority of packing materials we use are new, we will reuse materials when available and encourage all of our customers to do the same.

Items below £150 in value will be sent by Royal Mail 48, those above this value will be sent via Special Delivery in the UK.

We are happy to send internationally.

Returns

All items sold come with a 30 day no fuss return guarantee with the exception of items sold as faulty or for parts.