Summitar 50mm f2. Leica's product code is SOORE. Manufactured in 1940 with a serial number in the 550,000 range. This is a non-coated lens with a 4-group, 7-element construction. It features a round aperture (circular aperture), and the aperture markings are in the continental style (f2, f2.2, f3.2, etc.). The distance scale is in meters.
The Summitar was introduced as the second generation of large-aperture, fast lenses, following the Summar. Significant improvements were made in reducing peripheral fall-off and distortion near the maximum aperture. This lens would be followed by the iconic Summicron 50mm, which became Leica's standard lens.
Although the Summitar 50mm is often overshadowed by the fame of the Summicron, it is a lens full of character, with the unique qualities of old lenses, and could be re-evaluated for its charm. While the production volume was high, making it a relatively affordable Leica L-mount lens, finding a clean example can actually be quite challenging.
There are only very light scuffs on the front of the lens barrel and the collapsing section, but there are no noticeable scratches or dents. Considering that many Summitars are often worn and loose from heavy use, this is a remarkably clean example.
A full overhaul was completed in December 2024. Due to the meticulous servicing, both the aperture ring and the helicoid operate smoothly with no stress. The rangefinder coupling works perfectly, and focusing is in great condition.
In addition to its attractive exterior, the lens is free of cleaning marks or fog, offering crisp, clear glass with excellent image quality. The internal anti-reflection lacquer has been carefully reapplied, providing tighter contrast in the image. Real-world tests also yielded very good results.
The original front cap is included.
