The first event organised by Wetzlar Camera Auctions will take place on October 5 and the catalogue is now available.
Wetzlar Camera Auctions is a cooperative venture between Lars Netopil, one of the world’s leading experts on Leica history, and Jo Geier of Mint&Rare in Vienna.
Lars, who owns Lars Netopil Classic Cameras in Domplatz, Wetzlar — a must-visit attraction for any factory visitor — is a respected author on Leica history. He founded the Solms Camera Trade Fair 25 years ago and has had over 30 years’ experience of the marque, building up an unrivalled knowledge and lever of expertise.
Jo Geier has been involved in the camera auction world for over ten years and also brings to the venture an in-depth knowledge of other classic camera marques.
With a starting price of €150,000, this gold-plated Leica IA Luxus is one of only 95 examples made between 1929 and 1931. 
Fancy something a bit more affordable? You can bid for this Leica ball-head set, starting at €300
The first Wetzlar auction is much anticipated in the Leica collectors’ world and the venue, in the home town of Leica, is likely to add to its attraction.
The website contains full details of the forthcoming auction and you can find the online catalogue here. You can also download a PDF version of the catalogue.
Lars is one of those people who is always very willing to provide advice and help to collectors. I had some dealings with Jo Geier when he was with Peter Coeln at Westlicht. Anyone who has dealt with him in his new business speaks very highly of him. The auction is a smaller one, with just over 200 items, but they have kept the quality very high.
William
The starting prices look normal ..but, of course, this is an Auction ..so the prices will probably go to silly sky-high levels..
Indeed. There has been a big increase in prices over the past year — especially for film bodies such as the M6 Classic, and it’s anybody’s guess now much that 1A Luxus will go for.