Summarex 85mm f1.5, serial number in the 820,000 range, manufactured in 1950. Leica L-mount with rangefinder coupling. Features a modified Gauss-type optical design with 5 groups and 7 elements. Distance scale marked in feet. The 15-blade aperture promises beautifully smooth bokeh.
While the helicoid scale indicates a minimum focusing distance of 5 feet (1.5m), the helicoid can rotate beyond the scale, allowing actual rangefinder-coupled focusing down to 1m—a very welcome feature. Filter thread size is E58.
Among Leitz's screw-mount telephoto lenses, this boasts the largest aperture, making it a high-speed lens of exceptional pedigree. Its elaborate design becomes even more striking when paired with its dedicated hood, creating an imposing visual presence.
At maximum aperture, the lens delivers a soft and dreamy rendering, ideal for exploring unique expressions. Combined with its minimal distortion, it is particularly well-suited for portrait photography. With slight stopping down, resolution increases noticeably, and when further stopped down, it transforms into a lens that delivers crisp, sharp images.
To maintain accurate rangefinder coupling, choose an L/M adapter that aligns the lens's tripod collar directly downward. Genuine Leitz or Rayqual adapters are recommended for reliability.
Shows signs of regular use, such as plating wear and minor scuff marks. The hood, in particular, exhibits considerable signs of use, giving it a condition perfect for carefree handling.
Fully overhauled by a professional repairer in November 2024, including focus adjustment. While Summarex lenses are often prone to stiff apertures and helicoids, this unit has been expertly serviced to provide a smooth and silky feel, ensuring stress-free operation.
Summarex lenses are also known for occasional rangefinder coupling issues, but this example functions perfectly in this regard. The glass is in excellent condition, delivering pinpoint accuracy even wide open.
There are a few extremely slight cleaning marks on the glass, but for a Summarex, it is impressively clean, with no haze and excellent clarity.
Comes with its impressive original hood, dedicated hood cap, and rear cap.
The lens has been tested with excellent results, from wide open to stopped down. Sample images are available on our test gallery, and we hope you’ll take a look.
