Summaron 28mm f5.6 in red scale. This lens is one stop brighter than its predecessor, the Hektor 28mm f6.3. It was manufactured in 1957, with a serial number in the 1.5 million range, and has a Leitz product code of SNOOX. The distance scale is in meters. The lens construction is a Gauss type with 4 groups and 6 elements.
Introduced in 1955 as the successor to the Hektor 28mm f6.3, the Summaron 28mm was produced until 1963. The filter size is the same as the Hektor 28mm, with a 36mm screw-in filter (A36).
Produced during the peak of Leica’s post-war era, this lens is highly regarded not only for its excellent image quality but also for its high-quality chrome finish and timeless design that continues to attract enthusiasts even after nearly 70 years. The original version, with relatively few units produced, is becoming increasingly difficult to find in pristine condition.
In recent years, a surprising reissue of this lens has generated interest, but the original remains a sought-after collector's item. Additionally, it looks exceptionally stylish when fitted with the dedicated square hood SOOBK, showcasing the refined styling characteristic of Leica products from this era.
There are very minor scuffs at the base of the lens barrel, but otherwise, there are no noticeable scuffs, scratches, or dents, making it very clean in appearance. The chrome plating on the mount is also in excellent condition.
The lens underwent a full overhaul in August 2024. Thanks to meticulous maintenance, the helicoid movement is very smooth, and the aperture ring operates smoothly as well. The rangefinder coupling is perfectly aligned, and focusing is excellent.
The lens has some light cleaning marks on the front element and minor coating blemishes, but these do not affect image quality. As known for its potential for haze, this lens has quite clean glass. Test shots produced very good results.
It comes with the original front and rear caps.
