the Leica MP (M Professional) of 1956 and the Leica MP2 of 1958 There is a kind of logical sequence in starting with M3, and proceeding with the slightly simplified “economy” M2 of 1958, the bare bones M1 of 1959, the technically upgraded M4 of 1966, and in naming the two other M1 predecessors. Another explanation is that the “3” stands for the three frame lines in the M3 viewfinder window. But why M3 rather than M1 for this number one, first-of-its-kind, breakthrough design? One plausible explanation is that the last top-of-the-line screw-mount Leica prior to the introduction of the M3 was the Leica IIIf (pronounced “Three F”) so the initial M was dubbed the M3 to reflect the continuity of the Leica rangefinder line. The “M” assuredly stands for “ mess-sucher” the elegantly concise German word for “combined rangefinder-viewfinder,” a new (for Leica) feature lacking on all previous II- and III-series screw-mount Leicas. Why Leitz named its iconic, new, totally redesigned rangefinder 35 the “Leica M3” when it debuted back in 1954 remains something of a mystery. A minimalist masterpiece aimed at scientists, techies, and the military.
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