The Reid is based on the pre-war Leica IIIb but re-engineered in imperial measurements. Production started in 1951 although it was announced in 1947 and shown at the British Industries Fair of that year. The Reid was extremely well-made but did not introduce any new features over pre-war days. It did not sell in large numbers (around 2500) probably due to the poor marketing and a lack of commitment from the manufacturer. Many cameras were sold to the British armed services and are marked with a broad arrow.

Reid models:

• Original - without synchronisation.
• Original - version with one synchronisation socket.
• III - twin flash contacts.
• II - version without slow speeds.
• I - version without rangefinder.
• Ia - similar to the model I but with finder replaced by a second accessory shoe.

Accessories included:

Extension tubes, supplied as a set of 6 tubes - 1/4, 3/8, 1/2, 1, 2 and 4". Focusing stage with intermediate mount allowing the standard lens to be used collapsed. Fixing arm to attach to a copying stand. Lens hood.