XEMOO. Manufactured in 1937 Leica Xenon 50mm f1.5. This model features the Taylor-Hobson engraving on the nameplate, indicating it was likely shipped for the UK market. 7 elements in 5 groups. This lens is the later version with a three-band focusing ring, commonly known as the Three Band. Distance scales in feet, with a minimum aperture of f9 and a six-sided aperture shape. Uncoated.
Designed by Dr. Tronnier, this fast-aperture lens is one of Leica's iconic pre-war lenses. At wide apertures, it delivers a soft and rich vintage image. Produced by Schneider, only around 6,000 units were made, making it relatively rare. It was also designed to compete with Zeiss Ikon’s Sonnar and was quite an expensive lens at the time.
The compatible original hood is the collapsible XIOOM, though the Summarit XOONS hood can also be used, as both have the same 41mm filter diameter.
This Leica Xenon eventually evolved into the Summarit after the war and then into the renowned Summilux, continuing to uphold Leica’s reputation.
There is some minor wear near the front edge of the barrel and the focus tab, but the overall exterior condition is very clean for a Leica Xenon.
It was fully serviced in October 2024. While the Xenon is known for often having a stiffer aperture and helicoid feel, this one has been meticulously serviced for smooth operation, and the rangefinder coupling works perfectly.
The front element has a few very minor cleaning marks, but overall, the glass is exceptionally clean for a Xenon, with no major scratches or haze, providing crystal-clear clarity. Field testing produced excellent results. True to the Xenon’s character, the lens exhibits a soft, dreamy rendering wide open, but even a slight stop-down to f1.6 or f2.2 delivers a more defined image.
Includes original front and rear caps, as well as the rare original box.
