Leitz Photographica Auction

Info

Since 2002 we are a leading auction house specialized in collectible cameras. A Leica 0-Series sold in our auction is the most expensive camera ever.

Geschichte

CAMERA-AUCTIONS

WestLicht Photographica Auction has established itself as the biggest auction house for cameras in the world and has some record breaking results to show: in the 22nd Camera Auction in November 2012 the legendary M3D owned by the LIFE photographer and Picasso intimate David Douglas Duncan was sold for price of 1,680,000 Euro (opening bid: 150,000 Euros) and became the most expensive camera from a serial production ever. It is the second-highest price ever paid for a camera!

The gold-plated ‘Luxus’ Leica, dated 1929 sold for 1,020,000 Euro (opening bid: 70,000 Euro), was the second most expensive camera of the auction.

The very first serial-production M3 (1953, serial number 700001), formerly owned by Willi Stein, chief engineer of Leitz, was sold at a top price of 900,000 Euro (opening bid: 80,000 Euro)

These three cameras are therefore the most expensive cameras from serial production, ever sold. The 0 series Leica sold for 2,160,000 Euro at the 21st WestLicht Camera auction in May 2012 was a prototype.

We are continuing our efforts to search for the most beautiful and rare pieces for you. Our international network of dealers and collectors enables us to offer you the most interesting and sought after pieces of camera history. More than 18.000 lots were sold to aficionados and collectors in the past 31 Camera Auctions.

We are always accepting unique high quality pieces or complete collections for our next auctions. Here you can find further information on the consignment of lots.

PHOTO-AUCTIONS

WestLicht Photo Auctions introduced in 2009 quickly took on a leading role in the auction market in both Austria and the German-speaking part of Europe. Photographs are being auctioned in Vienna since then twice a year, with items ranging from early prints from the 19th century to 20th century classics and contemporary photography. No other medium has shaped the last 150 years like photography and the auction’s portfolio is rife with iconic moments from history and high profile personalities behind and in front of the camera. The Auction Preview held in WestLicht offers an inspiring tour through the history of photography and addresses both specialized collectors and the general public.