In a stunning display of the allure and value of fine photography equipment, a Leica MP2 black paint edition camera has been sold for a record-breaking price of 1.56 million euros, which is equivalent to the price of a house. The sale took place at the 44th Leitz Camera Auction, which featured over 400 pieces of rare and historical photographic items.
The Leica MP2 black paint edition camera, produced in 1958, is a rare gem in the world of photography. Only six of these cameras were produced, making them highly sought after by collectors. The camera, which was specifically developed for news photography, was sold for 156,000 euros, including the buyer’s commission, at the auction.
The 44th Leitz Camera Auction was held at the Wiesner Park, featuring a wide range of photographic items including vintage cameras, lenses, and historical photographic accessories. The Leica MP2 black paint edition camera was the centerpiece of the event, drawing the attention of enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The Leica MP2 black paint edition camera has always been a dream piece for collectors, said Alexander Sedrak, General Manager of the Leitz Camera Auction. The fact that it was sold for such a high price at the 44th Leitz Camera Auction is a testament to the extraordinary value and historical significance of this camera.
The Leica MP2 was introduced in the late 1950s as an experimental camera and was only produced in 27 units. The black paint edition is particularly rare, as it was made for a limited number of customers who requested a unique finish. The camera’s timeless design, exceptional build quality, and exceptional image quality have made it a favorite among professional photographers and collectors.
In addition to the Leica MP2, the auction also featured other rare and valuable items. A 1931 Leica I Mod A. Luxus camera, which was produced in a limited edition and is known for its gold-plated body and distinctive leather finish, sold for 288,000 euros, including the buyer’s commission. The camera’s distinctive appearance and craftsmanship attracted a lot of attention from collectors.
The auction also featured a prototype of the Leica Summilux 1.4/35mm lens, which was sold as a charity item. The proceeds from the sale, amounting to 33,600 euros, were donated to the charity Licht ins Dunkel.
The 44th Leitz Camera Auction was a resounding success, showcasing the enduring appeal of photography and the high value placed on rare and historical photographic equipment. The auction’s impressive lineup of items and the record-breaking sale of the Leica MP2 black paint edition camera have further solidified the importance of photography in the eyes of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
As the auction concludes, the Leitz Camera Auction is already looking ahead to its next event. The next auction will take place in Vienna this fall, featuring two separate events: a photography-themed auction at the Leica Gallery Vienna on October 18, and the 45th Leitz Camera Auction at the Bristol Hotel Vienna on November 23.
The Leitz Camera Auction has once again demonstrated the power of photography and its ability to captivate and inspire. With rare items like the Leica MP2 black paint edition camera fetching record-breaking prices, it’s clear that the world of photography is a vibrant and dynamic market that continues to evolve and captivate enthusiasts and collectors around the globe.
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