Early Summilux 50mm f1.4, Reverse Knurling.
Manufactured in 1959. Leitz product code is SOOME, later 11114. The different knurling pattern alone gives it a distinctive and appealing look.
The late 1950s was a period when many captivating models were produced, including the Leica MP, early M2, and M3 with spring winding. This era, the golden age of post-war Leitz, was characterized by precisely designed and beautifully finished bodies and lenses. This early Summilux, born in that time, exudes elegance and dignity, earning the nickname The Lady for its beautiful appearance.
It features the characteristic soft rendering at wide apertures and sharp, three-dimensional rendering when stopped down, both of which are highly appealing.
Compatible filters are E43, and the hood is XOOIM / 12521G. Comes with original front and rear caps.
There are minor scuffs on the front of the barrel, aperture ring, and helicoid ring, but it maintains a very clean appearance for a reverse knurling version.
Fully overhauled in June 2024 to ensure its optimal condition. The aperture and helicoid operations are very smooth, and the rangefinder coupling is perfect.
Under strong LED light, you can barely see some very minor coating wear and faint cleaning marks on the middle element. These are unlikely to affect actual shooting. The coating is fully intact. The test shooting results were excellent.
We have added sample photos to our Test Shoot Gallery. This is a wonderful lens that offers the characteristic soft and beautiful rendering at wide apertures typical of early models.
