The product code of Leitz is XEMOO. The serial number is in the 370,000 range, indicating a 1937 production of the Leitz Xenon 5cm f1.5, early model. Designed by Dr. Tronnier, this lens is a representative of pre-war Leitz's large aperture lenses. This particular item is an early type with two knurled rings on the helicoid, commonly known as the "two-band" type. It features a hexagonal aperture. The lens construction consists of 5 groups and 7 elements. It is uncoated, with a minimum aperture of f9, and the distance scale is marked in meters.
Manufactured by Schneider, it had a production run of approximately 6,000 units, which is relatively low. It was a competitor to the Zeiss Ikon Sonnar and was quite expensive at the time. This Leica Xenon evolved into the Summarit after the war, and later into the renowned Summilux, continuing to support Leica's reputation.
The edges of the lens barrel show slight brass exposure, but there are no dents or dings, indicating it has been carefully used over the years.
It underwent a full overhaul in 2022. The Xenon aperture ring and helicoid movement tend to become stiff, but thanks to careful maintenance, the operation is currently very smooth. The rangefinder coupling is also perfectly aligned.
The front element has slight discoloration and thin cleaning marks that are barely visible under a strong LED light, and the rear element shows minor scuffing. However, compared to typical Leica Xenon lenses, which often have many cleaning marks, this one is in quite good condition. It offers the characteristic delicate and soft rendering of the Xenon even wide open. Although this pre-war uncoated lens is somewhat weak against backlight, it produces a charming rendering in slightly underexposed scenes.
Sample images from the last sale are added for reference. The photos were taken without a hood, with apertures ranging from fully open to f2.2 and f4.5. Please take a look. The best performance is around f2.2.
Includes original front cap.
