Leotax Model K | Rangefinder camera

Opens tomorrow
Starting bid
€ 1

Add to your favourites to get an alert when the auction starts.

Thorsten Pöllath
Expert
Selected by Thorsten Pöllath

Has 40 years of experience in photography and 25 years of collecting expertise, specialising in M42 lens mounts.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
Catawiki Buyer Protection

Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details

Trustpilot 4.4 | 132745 reviews

Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.

Description from the seller

A Timeless Classic for Your Collection: The Leotax Model K Rangefinder

Step back into the mid-century elegance of Japanese optics with the Leotax Model K.
Inspired by the legendary Leica design but infused with distinct Japanese soul, this camera is perfect for the collector who seeks both quality and character.
There is a unique emotional resonance in using a fully mechanical camera—the sound of the cloth shutter and the manual precision required for every shot.
Although the body shows signs of its journey through time with minor scratches and a dent on the top, it remains a robust and functional piece of art.
The viewfinder preserves its historical charm, allowing you to focus through the haze of history with its aligned double image.
Owning this Leotax means preserving a legacy of mid-50s innovation, bringing a touch of nostalgic class to your photographic journey.

- Release Date: 1955
- Manufacturer: Showa Optical Works
- Item Name: Leotax Model K
- Size: Approx. 140mm (W) x 72mm (H) x 32mm (D) (Body only)
- Weight: Approx. 490g (Body only)
- Type: 35mm focal-plane shutter rangefinder camera
- Lens Mount: Leica L-mount (L39 screw mount)
- Shutter: Mechanical horizontal-travel cloth focal-plane shutter
- Shutter Speed: B, 1 to 1/500 sec
- Film Advance: Knob wind system (Bottom-loading)
- Operation: Fully operational. Shutter speeds change accordingly, but exact precision has not been measured.
- Viewfinder Condition: Some dust and haze consistent with age. Double image is functional and accurate.
- Shutter Curtain Condition: Slight wrinkling observed, but light-tight.
- Body Appearance: Shows signs of use with small scratches and a dent on the top section.
- Accessories: Spool

Disclaimer: Please note that the product description above was generated with AI assistance. As there may be potential inaccuracies, please refer to the provided photos and the official manufacturer's website for the most accurate and definitive information.

Shipping Policy: We will ship your order with a tracking number within 1-3 business days after payment confirmation.

Important Notice: Shipping Suspension to Specific Regions
Due to the worsening situation in the Middle East and its impact on international flight schedules, we have decided to suspend shipping to the following countries until further notice.
Target Countries:
Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Iran, Israel, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya
If an order is placed for any of these destinations, we will have to cancel it.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Terms and Conditions
1. What is included in this item is only what is shown in the picture. Please note that batteries and other items not shown in the picture are not included.
2. Import duties, taxes, VAT (Value Added Tax), and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
3. When purchasing a lens, please note that any issues arising from the use of third-party mount adapters are not covered under warranty.
4. Condition ratings and descriptions are based on the seller's subjective evaluation. Since the perception of an item's condition can vary between individuals, please carefully review all provided photos and place your bid based on your own judgment and responsibility.
5. In the event that you are not satisfied with the item or find any discrepancies with the description, the item must be returned to the seller first. A refund will be processed immediately upon the safe return of the item. All return policies are governed by Catawiki's terms and conditions.
6. By placing a bid, you are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated above.


Seller's Story

Based in Japan, I have been operating as an online seller specializing in used cameras and rare vintage items for over three years. At my shop, "ShakeShop," my mission is more than just selling products; it is to deliver Japan's outstanding technological heritage to enthusiasts around the world. My primary lineup features film cameras and lenses from Japan's golden era, such as Nikon and Canon. These items are carefully selected and sourced one by one directly from a reliable network and collectors within Japan. My expertise lies in evaluating the condition of precision optical instruments. I particularly specialize in classic rangefinder cameras, such as Leotax. My passion stems from "delivering an experience that exceeds my customers' expectations." I am committed to thorough inspections, detailed descriptions, and the meticulous packaging unique to Japan, ensuring that you can shop with peace of mind even from a distance. Please enjoy the wonderful world of Japanese vintage through my auctions.

A Timeless Classic for Your Collection: The Leotax Model K Rangefinder

Step back into the mid-century elegance of Japanese optics with the Leotax Model K.
Inspired by the legendary Leica design but infused with distinct Japanese soul, this camera is perfect for the collector who seeks both quality and character.
There is a unique emotional resonance in using a fully mechanical camera—the sound of the cloth shutter and the manual precision required for every shot.
Although the body shows signs of its journey through time with minor scratches and a dent on the top, it remains a robust and functional piece of art.
The viewfinder preserves its historical charm, allowing you to focus through the haze of history with its aligned double image.
Owning this Leotax means preserving a legacy of mid-50s innovation, bringing a touch of nostalgic class to your photographic journey.

- Release Date: 1955
- Manufacturer: Showa Optical Works
- Item Name: Leotax Model K
- Size: Approx. 140mm (W) x 72mm (H) x 32mm (D) (Body only)
- Weight: Approx. 490g (Body only)
- Type: 35mm focal-plane shutter rangefinder camera
- Lens Mount: Leica L-mount (L39 screw mount)
- Shutter: Mechanical horizontal-travel cloth focal-plane shutter
- Shutter Speed: B, 1 to 1/500 sec
- Film Advance: Knob wind system (Bottom-loading)
- Operation: Fully operational. Shutter speeds change accordingly, but exact precision has not been measured.
- Viewfinder Condition: Some dust and haze consistent with age. Double image is functional and accurate.
- Shutter Curtain Condition: Slight wrinkling observed, but light-tight.
- Body Appearance: Shows signs of use with small scratches and a dent on the top section.
- Accessories: Spool

Disclaimer: Please note that the product description above was generated with AI assistance. As there may be potential inaccuracies, please refer to the provided photos and the official manufacturer's website for the most accurate and definitive information.

Shipping Policy: We will ship your order with a tracking number within 1-3 business days after payment confirmation.

Important Notice: Shipping Suspension to Specific Regions
Due to the worsening situation in the Middle East and its impact on international flight schedules, we have decided to suspend shipping to the following countries until further notice.
Target Countries:
Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Iran, Israel, Syria, North Korea, Afghanistan, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, Libya
If an order is placed for any of these destinations, we will have to cancel it.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

Terms and Conditions
1. What is included in this item is only what is shown in the picture. Please note that batteries and other items not shown in the picture are not included.
2. Import duties, taxes, VAT (Value Added Tax), and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding or buying.
3. When purchasing a lens, please note that any issues arising from the use of third-party mount adapters are not covered under warranty.
4. Condition ratings and descriptions are based on the seller's subjective evaluation. Since the perception of an item's condition can vary between individuals, please carefully review all provided photos and place your bid based on your own judgment and responsibility.
5. In the event that you are not satisfied with the item or find any discrepancies with the description, the item must be returned to the seller first. A refund will be processed immediately upon the safe return of the item. All return policies are governed by Catawiki's terms and conditions.
6. By placing a bid, you are deemed to have read and agreed to all the terms and conditions stated above.


Seller's Story

Based in Japan, I have been operating as an online seller specializing in used cameras and rare vintage items for over three years. At my shop, "ShakeShop," my mission is more than just selling products; it is to deliver Japan's outstanding technological heritage to enthusiasts around the world. My primary lineup features film cameras and lenses from Japan's golden era, such as Nikon and Canon. These items are carefully selected and sourced one by one directly from a reliable network and collectors within Japan. My expertise lies in evaluating the condition of precision optical instruments. I particularly specialize in classic rangefinder cameras, such as Leotax. My passion stems from "delivering an experience that exceeds my customers' expectations." I am committed to thorough inspections, detailed descriptions, and the meticulous packaging unique to Japan, ensuring that you can shop with peace of mind even from a distance. Please enjoy the wonderful world of Japanese vintage through my auctions.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Brand
Leotax
Model/type nr
Model K |
Physical condition
Very good
Functional condition
Tested and working
Lens Mount Type
LSM / LTM
Film type
35mm
Serial number
251689
Estimated period
1950-1960
Sold by
JapanVerified
372
Objects sold
99.23%
Privatetop

Similar objects

For you in

Cameras & Optical Equipment