The Leica M3 was manufactured between 1954 and 1967.

Many collectors favour M3s with high serial numbers (1 000 0000 and up), or — at the other end of the spectrum — the first 1 000 ones made (with serial numbers 700 XXX).  The first group are valued because they are thought to represent “perfected” late production examples, but as you will see below, that is a matter of perspective.  The second group are coveted because, well… they were the first ones produced.

As a photographer however, my favourite M3s are the ones from the year 1957 (specifically the subset with serial numbers between 854 00 – 858 000) because they combine the best features of both early and late M3 bodies.

Specifically, the qualities of 1957 M3s that I value are:

Double stroke (DS) film advance levers with shorter arms. The shorter arms allow you to advance the film while holding the camera with one hand.

Modern shutter speeds (earlier models have the less-convenient older speeds: 1, 1/2, 1/5, 1/10, 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, 1/200…).

Silent return on the film advance lever (later models produce a ratcheting sound when returning).

Buddha (aka “Rabbit Ear”)-style lugs riveted (not screwed) to camera — no loosening or spinning of lugs.

Back door pin that allows it to securely click shut, preventing the door from inadvertently flapping open when changeing film (only available in cameras with serial numbers between 854 000 – 858 000).

Frame selector preview lever, which was not present in earlier models.

Double glass-reinforced eyepiece (later models have a single layer only).

 

—Peter.