This large capacity camera was capable of taking 250 shots without the need to change film. It was often used by professional sports photographers and wandering beach photographers. It was very convenient to have the large capacity. The special film spools allowed partially exposed film to be cut and removed.
There were two models available. The 250FF was based on the Leica II and did not have slow shutter speeds. A later model called the 250GG was based on the Leica IIIa had a wider range of shutter speeds and a separate slow shutter speed dial on the front. Some 250FF might have been converted to 250GG by the Leica factory.
The 250 was the first Leica camera to take an electric motor. The motor was designed around 1939 for military use and at 4 frames per second it was the fastest still camera of its time. The motors had to be matched to a particular camera body and would not work properly on others.
Although it was “discontinued” in 1943 a small number of cameras have been produced until 1953.
The reporter is a rare camera; only about 1000 were ever made. A motorised one in original condition can fetch hundreds of thousands of pounds at auction.
The reporter is a rare camera; only about 1000 were ever made. A motorised one in original condition can fetch hundreds of thousands of pounds at auction.
Jakub
Sources:
Dennis Laney. Leica Collectors Guide 2nd edition. Hove Collectors Books 2004.
Leica Pocket Book 8th edition. Steyning Photo Books 2012 (with contributions from Brian Bower and Nobby Clark).
James M. McKeown and Joan C. McKeown. McKeowns Price Guide to Antique & Classic Cameras 12th Edition. 2004
Dennis Laney. Leica Collectors Guide 2nd edition. Hove Collectors Books 2004.
Leica Pocket Book 8th edition. Steyning Photo Books 2012 (with contributions from Brian Bower and Nobby Clark).
James M. McKeown and Joan C. McKeown. McKeowns Price Guide to Antique & Classic Cameras 12th Edition. 2004