A one-of-a-kind Leica M-A camera, along with the iconic Leica Noctilux-M 50mm f/1.2 lens, both showcasing the exclusive serial number 5000000 and previously owned by Pope Francis, will headline this autumn’s Leitz Photographica Auction. The unique camera features a silver chrome finish, complemented by a special white covering, along with white paint on the base plate, back doors, and several controls.
From Leica’s Collection to the Pope’s Hands
“Leica products with a distinctive serial or fabrication number are very popular with collectors and deeply rooted in the company’s history,” Leica says in a press release. “Over the past 100 years, Leica Camera AG has awarded these exceptional products to distinguished personalities in recognition of their achievements. In keeping with his commitment to charity and social causes, Pope Francis chose to auction the Leica set, with all proceeds directed toward helping those in need.”
Exquisite Papal Engravings and Details
The camera features intricate papal engravings; the flash cover is embellished with the Keys of Peter, while the back of the top plate showcases His Holiness Pope Francis’ motto, ‘Miserando atque eligendo,’ which translates to ‘lowly but chosen.’
These special engravings are filled with white, gold, and black paint. The Noctilux lens is finished in chrome, with engravings also filled with gold and white paint. Both the body cap and the lens cap are engraved with the Coat of Arms of the State of Vatican City.
Additionally, both the camera and the lens are engraved with the year His Holiness Pope Francis received this gift, inscribed in Roman numerals: A.D. MMXXIV.
Leica M-A (Typ 127) Technical Specifications
In terms of specifications, the Leica M-A (Typ 127) is a 35mm film rangefinder camera that was introduced in 2014. It features a 0.72x bright line viewfinder and a mechanically operated focal-plane shutter with speeds from 1/1000s to 1/50s.
As a mechanical film camera, the M-A (Typ 127) operates without the need for batteries, positioning it as a classic alternative to contemporary cameras with its minimalist design.
Auction Details: Price and Bidding Information
The Leitz Photographica Auction 47 is scheduled for November 22 at the Hotel Imperial in Vienna. Bidding will begin at approximately $35,000 USD, with an estimated range starting at twice that amount. It is projected to reach six figures, with proceeds allocated to charity. I wouldn’t be surprised if it goes well beyond that estimate.
Images Courtesy of Leica
