The first camera with interchangeable lenses in the Leica catalogue was the Leica 1 model C. Three lenses were available: the 3,5 cm Elmar, the 5 cm Elmar (both with an aperture of 3.5) and the 13,5 cm Elmar with an aperture of 4.5.
The major difference in appearance with the Leica 1 model A is the lack of the hockey stick used for fixing the infinity focus setting.
The first Leica 1 model C cameras and the lenses to it were not standardized. This means that the lenses were calibrated for one specific camera only. The last three digits of the serial number of the camera were engraved in the lens flange. That way is was clear which lens belonged to which camera (just in case one had more than one set).
A complete set of camera and its three accompanying lenses is very much sought-after by collectors. Only 2995 Non-standardized Leica 1 model C were manufactured. Not all buyers would have bought all three lenses and a lot of these cameras would have been upgraded to Leica II and other models. Further more not all sets will have been kept together during the last 90 years. A complete set therefor is really exceptional.
When Leitz was able to control its production process in 1931 and from serial number 65001 lenses and cameras were standadised. Lenses and camera’s became interchangeable.
The lenses made for the 1 model C didn’t have a rangefinder coupling. This principle was introduced only a year later with the introduction of the Leica II
In total 10256 Leica 1 model C were manufactured from 1930 to 1933.
The almost identical Leica Standard superseded the Leica 1 model C. The main difference is that the Standard has a smaller and extendable rewind knob.
In the picture you see a complete outfit of: Leica 1 model C (LENEU) with 3,5 cm lens (EKURZ), 5cm lens (ELMAR), 13,5 cm lens (EFERN), its lens caps, separate Rangefinder (FOFER), Torpedo type finder (VISOR) for these lenses, though without parallax compensation, Yellow filters (FIRHE), Three close up lenses (ELPIK, ELPET en ELPRO) and the leather case.
Mark the little mask that could be turned in front of the fixed finder for use with the 13,5 cm lens.
A dream outfit for every Leica fan.
