A Leica is a collector’s item. The German company has created some pathbreaking cameras over the decades, which, even today, could easily fetch millions in auctions. With each iteration, whether the renowned prototypes or the M series, Leica catapulted to fame for its seamless blend of excellent ergonomics, ease of use, and exceptional quality. So much so that a Leica is an artifact that can be handed down in the family as a prestigious heirloom. And now, Tamarkin Auctions is organizing a new event that hopes to take such a tradition forward.
Who Are the Tamarkins?
Founded in 1971 by Stan Tamarkins, the organization deals with the buying and trading of rare Leica Cameras. In 1996, the company also started its well-known auctions called Tamarkin Auctions. The event offers some of the most excellent Leica cameras and lenses. So far, the company has auctioned cameras that raked up millions of dollars to individuals worldwide. The family-run business is now run by Dan, his eldest son, who has set up a store in Chicago following the shutting of the New York branch.
Which Leica Gear Are Being Auctioned This Year?
As per the Leica Rumors, the company is putting 400 cameras in action. As per the Tamarkin Auction’s catalog, some of the stand-out cameras include the Leica MP 203 with Leicavit MP, The Leica I (Model A) Elmax, the M4 “Fundus”, and the Leica I (Model A) Nr. 9260. As it is with every auction, there are also lenses designed by other lens companies such as Hugo Meyer and Zeiss, as well as by Nikon on its list. Some other auctioning items include books by Henri-Cartier Bresson, a camera from Rolliflex and Kodachrome, and a Suzuki Kogaku “Echo 8” cigarette lighter camera. It means there is something for everyone.
Which One Is Likely to Sell for Millions?
For this, we contacted Michal Kosakowski, Head of Appraisals at Leitz Photographica Auction, an official Leica Camera AG auction house. In our conversation, he explained how the following three items can fetch thousands to millions of dollars.
- Leica MP No. 203
- Leica KE-7A
- Hugo Meyer 2.7/50mm Makro Plasmat
Created in 1957, the Leica MP features a rapid-winding device, the Leicavit MP. “This camera was Leica’s response to professional photographers requesting an M3 with a Leicavit winder. Only 261 chrome-finished units were made,” Michal tells us in an email interview. He expects the model to fetch around $50,000 to $60,000.
Then comes the KE-7A, which Ernst Leitz Canada designed for the U.S. military. “This camera is especially valued for its included lens, which is highly regarded by collectors and users alike,” he explains. Unlike the MP No. 203, it could fetch $30,000.
Lastly, the 2.7/50mm, designed by Hugo Meyer’s company, Meyer Optik, was introduced in the 1930s. “[It was] produced at a time when Leica lenses were still limited in variety,” Michal says. It works perfectly on modern M bodies (with an adapter) and looks stunning on black-painted cameras.” This lens, too, could fetch around $30,000.
When asked whether the auction price exceeds the estimate, Michal states, “Anything can happen in an auction. All in all, we only need two people interested in one item for the prices to skyrocket—it happens in every auction.” So, it is a matter of time before the bidding war results in one of the most expensive Leicas ever sold.
The Tamarkin Auction begins on November 9. For more information, visit their website.
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