The Italian government acquired three models of Leica for military use: the IIIb, the 250-M (see lot xxx) and the IIIc. Only a few examples of the IIIb were purchased. The cameras were basically unaltered versions with the exception of the R. Aeronautica engraving and flash synchronisation. According to Sartorius the cameras are rare not only because few were produced but because Italian law stated that government goods had to be destroyed if no longer usable.