First generation Noctilux 50mm f1.2. Leitz product code 11820. Early version from 1968, Serial number in the 2.25 million range.
Released in 1966, this is Leitz’s first lens to use aspherical glass. It features a 4-group, 6-element design. Named Noctilux, meaning night light, this lens captures faint light with high contrast reproduction, creating a unique visual world with distinctive peripheral fall-off and bokeh.
The appearance shows signs of use, but the glass is clean and the focus is excellent. There is only minor coating degradation, and the lens delivers outstanding image quality. It comes with the matching dedicated 12503 hood, a Series 8 UVa filter, and both front and rear caps.
It underwent a full overhaul in 2019. As mentioned, the aperture and helicoid operation are smooth, and the rangefinder coupling is spot-on.
There are a few very faint cleaning marks on the front element, a small spot near the periphery of the rear element's inner side, and some minor coating wear due to age, but these do not affect actual image quality. The glass is quite clean for a Noctilux f1.2
The image quality is excellent. For previous sample shots, you can check the test gallery. This lens is in a great condition for those who want to fully enjoy shooting with an original Noctilux. It pairs well with vintage black-painted Leica M3, M2, M4, and similar models.
