Leitz Xenon 50mm f1.5, early version. The product code is XEMOO. The Leica Xenon was manufactured between 1936 and 1950. This particular unit was produced in 1936, the first year of production, and features the early "two-band" design with two knurled rings on the helicoid. It also has hexagonal aperture blades. 7 elements in 5 groups. Uncoated. The aperture scale follows the continental system, with a minimum aperture of f9. The distance scale is in meters.
This lens was manufactured by Schneider, with a production run of about 6,000 units, making it relatively rare. It was a strong competitor to Zeiss Ikon’s legendary Sonnar and was considered an expensive lens at the time. Although later overshadowed by the Summarit and Summilux as Leitz’s large-aperture standard lenses, the Xenon is still highly regarded for its delicate and soft rendering, even wide open.
The XOOFB slip-on filter and XIOOM folding hood are compatible with this lens.
While there are some very faint scuffs, there are no exposed brass areas, and the lens presents an exceptionally clean appearance for a Xenon. No major scratches or dings are present.
The lens was fully overhauled in October 2024. Thanks to meticulous maintenance, the operation of the aperture ring and helicoid, which tend to be heavy in Xenon lenses, is exceptionally smooth. The anti-reflective matte lacquer inside the lens has been carefully reapplied as well. The rangefinder coupling is precise, and focus is accurate.
There are a few very light cleaning marks on the front element and slight sun-changed of the glass due to age, but this should have minimal impact on image quality. The internal elements are clear, with no fogging, and the glass is bright and transparent. Combined with its clean exterior, this is an overall well-preserved lens in excellent condition. Test shots also produced great results. It comes with both front and rear original caps.
