Hektor 28mm f6.3, Leitz product code: HOOPYCHROM. This lens was manufactured in 1937. It features a chrome barrel and is uncoated. The distance scale is in meters, and the aperture markings are in the continental style. The lens construction consists of 5 elements in 3 groups. It was produced for 20 years, from 1935 until 1955, when it was succeeded by the Red Summaron 28mm.
Among Leica lenses, the Hektor 28mm is the smallest, making it incredibly portable when paired with a Barnack camera. Its compactness becomes even more pronounced when mounted on M-type Leicas, showcasing excellent design that feels right at home even when used on modern digital M cameras.
This particular lens has clean glass and delivers impressive image quality. It would be enjoyable to compare its performance against the Red Summaron.
The compatible original hood is the SOOHN, a simple, trumpet-shaped hood that complements the lens beautifully.
The lens barrel shows signs of use, such as faint rubbing and very minor scratches, but there are no significant dents or deep scratches, and it still retains a beautiful appearance.
Between the mtr and the infinity mark, there are faint engraved alphanumeric characters, the meaning of which is unknown. These may have been inscribed by a previous owner over the nearly 90 years of its existence. The engraving is so faint that it can only be recognized with a loupe, and it is hardly noticeable.
The lens underwent a full overhaul in October 2024, which included focus adjustment and coupling cam repair. The helical mechanism operates very smoothly, and the aperture movement is also fluid. The focus is precise, and the rangefinder coupling works perfectly.
The glass is free from cleaning marks and is crystal clear, making it exceptionally clean for a Hektor lens. Real-world test results have also shown excellent performance.
Both front and rear original caps are included.
