A rare nickel-finished Hektor 2.8cm f6.3. Serial number in the 270,000 range, manufactured in 1935—one of the first-year production units of the Hektor. It features rangefinder coupling and the desirable meter scale for distance. It also has the continental aperture scale and uncoated glass.
Among Leitz lenses, this one boasts the smallest size, making it incredibly compact. While the classic pairing is with a black and nickel Leica DII or DIII, it also pairs beautifully with a black-painted Leica M model. The lens is so compact that you might forget it's even attached, offering exceptional portability.
Despite its relatively slow f6.3 aperture, this lens produces images with a remarkable character, and many who start using it quickly become enamored with its charm. The helicoid allows for rough focusing, making it ideal for quick shots. It’s a must-have for snap-shooting enthusiasts.
There is some wear to the nickel plating from use, and a minor ding at the base, but considering nearly 90 years since its manufacture, the condition is very good. The brass is exposed in some areas on the mounting surface.
Fully overhauled in August 2024. The aperture and helicoid have been adjusted to a smooth, well-balanced torque. The rangefinder coupling is also perfectly aligned.
The glass shows slight yellowing, but there are no significant cleaning marks or haze, and the glass is exceptionally clear. For a Hektor 28mm, which often suffers from cleaning marks or stubborn haze, this is a particularly clean example. The results from test shooting were excellent.
Sample images have been posted on the test site. All shots were taken wide open, without a lens hood. The images are remarkably sharp, with strong contrast. Some of the examples were shot deliberately into the light, showcasing the lens's capabilities. The more you shoot with it, the more you’ll appreciate its qualities—it’s a joy to use.
Comes with original Leitz Bakelite front and rear caps.
