For the 100 years Leica anniversary Westlicht will have a special auction on May 23th, 2014. As some readers have noticed, a "mystery" item is listed under lot number 100 in the upcoming auction:
Edition 100 Years of Leica
With the “Ur-Leica”, Oskar Barnack created a milestone in the history of photography in 1914 – a fact Leica Camera AG is celebrating extensively this year. Leica stands for first-rate cameras and lenses which have won the enthusiasm of photographers and collectors worldwide. A multitude of unique camera models and lenses are associated with the name Leica. Since Oskar Barnack created the foundations of Leica miniature photography by constructing his “Ur-Leica” in 1914, Leica has been a byword for iconic design, technological innovation and better images.
The anniversary “100 Years of Leica Photography” gives rise not only to numerous events and exhibitions, but also to various anniversary editions. Many of the Leica special editions, elaborately hand-crafted to commemorate special occasions, are rarities featuring special engravings and materials; they are of particular interest to collectors. At the same time, they are unique tools for the daily work of professional photographers and serious amateurs.As part of the auction, you will have the unique opportunity to purchase one of the most valuable Leica editions. Among the 100 extremely rare “treasures” from the Leitz and Leica world of products, Lot 100 is a current highlight in which the company in Wetzlar celebrates “100 Years of Leica Photography” – and which will capture your heart!
The starting price of the mystery item is €22.000 (over $30,000).
This could be the new special edition Leica M film camera that is rumored to be announced this year.
