Nicca Type-III S
The Nicca Type-III S is a LTM-mount film rangefinder camera, introduced in 1952. Leica camera price index →
Reference maintained by Thomas Boots
General
- Mount
- LTM
- Release Year
- 1952
- Type
- Film
- Model Number
- Type-III S
- Serial Range
- Approximately 50002 to 6014x, observed collector range
Dimensions
- Weight
- 437g
- Width
- 133mm
- Height
- 67mm
Viewfinder & Shutter
- Framelines
- None, separate fixed 50 mm viewfinder and coupled rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds
- T, 1 s, 1/2 s, 1/4 s, 1/8 s, B, 1/20 s, 1/30 s, 1/40 s, 1/60 s, 1/100 s, 1/200 s and 1/500 s
- Shutter Type
- Cloth
Features
- Hot Shoe
- No
- Tripod Socket
- Yes
- Self Timer
- No
- Flash Sync
- 1/20 s
Nicca Type-III S
The Nicca Type-III S is a synchronized Japanese LTM rangefinder introduced in 1952. It combines the established stamped body, separate 50 mm finder, reported 1.5x coupled rangefinder and cloth shutter of the Type-III family [1].
Two coaxial PC terminals distinguish it from the Type-III B. The upper red terminal provides FP synchronization, while the lower white terminal provides X synchronization through 1/20 second [1].
History
Development and Launch
Collector sources differ between late 1952 and 1953, but period evidence supports a September 1952 introduction. The model replaced the synchronized Type-III B, while the cheaper Type-III A remained available [1].
Production Evolution
Observed serials run approximately from 50002 to 6014x. The accessory-shoe corner and baseplate lock changed during production, showing gradual component transitions rather than fixed breaks [1].
Special Variants
Socket color and trim differences may reflect repairs. They do not establish separate editions, and the camera remains a Standard model.
Collector Notes
Verify the engraved “Type-III S” name and original red-over-white PC socket arrangement. Replaced connectors are known. Do not confuse this model with the later Nicca 3-S, which adopted the Type-4's 1/25 second changeover progression.
Comments