In camera production, as in comedy, timing is . . . everything.  As Leica was developing and improving their line of thread mount cameras, World War II engulfed Europe and design modifications were put on hold.  While Leica had a record of releasing new models of their rangefinder camera every few years, the Leica IIIc (released in 1940) would end up having the company's longest production run of any of of their screw mount bodies.  By the time its successor - the Leica IIIf - was released in 1950, around 131,000 units had been produced.

The Leica IIIc was the first thread mount Leica to be made with a die-cast body.  This process greatly enhanced its strength and durability, especially when compared to its predecessors.  Like all of its III series cousins, the IIIc has a rangefinder and a slow-speed shutter dial on the front of the body.  Unlike its earlier variants, however, the IIIc comes with a small knob that holds the slow-speed dial in place.  The Leica IIIc also comes with an improved shutter mechanism that runs on ball bearings so that there is a bit less friction.  This innovation also allows for easier service later in life.

While there are some minor differences between the wartime Leica IIIc cameras and the post-war version, any of the IIIc options are a joy to use.  The shutter button is a little bigger and the viewfinder and rangefinder windows remain close together for easy use.  An optional orange filter may be fitted over the viewfinder to aid in focusing the relatively small rangefinder patch and a built-in magnifier can aid in focusing or act as a diopter adjustment, as needed.

Even though the Leica IIIc is slightly larger than the older Barnack Leicas, its ergonomic design makes it a pleasure to hold and use. The standard 50mm f3.5 collapsible lens, well, collapses into the body and the whole setup fits easily into a coat pocket.

Given the age of these cameras, it's likely that any Leica IIIc that you find will need service, but, thanks to its solid build and meticulous design, these cameras can still be brought back to their original specifications through an overhaul.  While there are still camera repair technicians who will work on these little beauties, making sure you're sending your camera off to a specialist will ensure your Leica will return to you in the best shape possible and ready for years - if not decades - of use.

Thanks to its long production, there are still plenty of Leica IIIc cameras out on the market and putting one in your arsenal will not weigh you down physically or financially.  Finding someone who's willing to part with one, however, may be tougher.  Again, timing is everything.