Nikkor Q.C 5cm f3.5 in Leica screw mount. Collapsible type. Aperture markings are in international format (f3.5, 4, 5.6...). Tessar-type lens with 3 groups and 4 elements. Marked with Nippon Kogaku Tokyo.
Serial number: 610xx. The inner element is coated with a soft bluish coating. The distance scale on the helicoid is in meters, which is believed to be quite rare. Incidentally, a very close serial number, 61053, listed in the Rotoloni book, also has meter markings.
The Nikkor 50mm f3.5 traces its roots back to the lens mounted on the Hansa Canon in 1935. However, this particular unit was likely produced shortly after the end of World War II, with production resuming around the end of 1945 to be supplied for Leica screw mount-compatible cameras like the Canon SII.
Developed by Nippon Kogaku during their transition to civilian products after the war, this lens symbolizes the post-war revival and growth of Japan's optical industry. With a five-digit serial number starting with 6, this lens is believed to have been manufactured in 1946, making it one of the earliest Nikkor 50mm f3.5 lenses. It features a standard Leica screw mount that fits securely onto Barnack Leicas.
A rare item.
There is some rubbing on the plating of the collapsible section and light scratches on the nameplate, but there are no major scratches or dents, making the exterior of this lens quite clean for its type.
It underwent a full overhaul in 2024. Thanks to careful maintenance, the aperture and helicoid operate smoothly.
The glass is clear with no haze, in excellent condition, and the rangefinder coupling is working well.
Test shots also yielded excellent results, with impressively sharp images. Sample photos are available in the test gallery, and we encourage you to take a look. All shots were taken at full aperture.
