Photographica Pages
An online guide to collectable cameras and related stuff
Leica M4 (Leica M4 MOT and Leica
KE-7A)
The M4 replaced the dozen year old design of the M3, as well as that of the M2. It incorporates
framelines for 35, 50, 90 and 135 framelines. The rewind lever is mounted at an angle with a folding
crank to facilitate rapid rewind, especially while a meter is mounted on the camera. M4 cameras also
have the rapid load systems introduced on the M2R.
Some M4 cameras were designed for use with motor drives, and are marked M4M or M4 MOT. A batch
of 31 cameras were finished in olive green in 1970 (but were listed in the statistics as black).
In 1975 1750 M4 cameras were engraved with a 50 Jahre (50 year) logo to commemorate 50 years of
Leica production.
The US military ordered 505 cameras with special seals, special engraving, and an unusual 50/2 Elcan
lens which was a bit more compact. There was a small production overrun which Leitz sold to the
general public.
The Leica M4 in black paint.
The Leica M4 in black chrome.
The Leica M4 50 Jahre (50 Years) Anniversay in black chrome, with box.
The Leica M4 50 Jahre (50 Years) Anniversay box
The Leica M4 MOT.
The special motor for the Leica M4 MOT.
The motor coupling.
The Leica M4 MOT with the motor mounted.
The Leica KE-7A body.
Note that this example lacks a serial number
Production figures by year and camera finish:
Year | Chrome | Black | Motor | Canadian |
1967 | 9900 | -0- | -0- | 100 |
1968 | 17220 | 620 | 150 | -0- |
1969 | 9200 | 2700 | 225 | -0- |
1970 | 10871 | 1100 | 400 | -0- |
1971 | -0- | 500 | 100 | -0- |
1972 | -0- | -0- | -0-- | 505 |
1973 | -0- | -0- | -0- | -0- |
1974 | -0- | 2250 | -0- | 950 |
1975 | -0- | 1820 | -0- | 800 |
Total | 47191 | 8990 | 905 | 2355 |