11801. The Elmarit 28mm f2.8 2nd Model (Early Version, Stopper Type) Manufactured by Leitz Canada with a serial number in the 2.31 million range, this lens dates back to 1969, a period when many Leica M4 Black Paint models were produced.
This 2nd version features a redesigned 6-group, 8-element retrofocus optical formula, reducing the glass count by one compared to the 1st version. The rear element protrusion has been minimized, making it compatible with cameras like the Leica M5, Leica CL, and modern mirrorless digital cameras without issue. On Leica models from the M4-P onward, it activates the 28mm framelines in the viewfinder. The lens accepts E48 filters.
Renowned for its high contrast and resolution, this lens also delivers a pleasant softness and falloff in the corners, creating an appealing vintage character. The early stopper version is a slightly rarer model, often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
There are slight marks on the outer edge of the filter ring from attaching and detaching the hood, along with very minor claw marks from the hood. However, the overall appearance remains exceptionally clean. The accompanying 12501 hood is also in excellent condition.
In 2024, the lens underwent careful servicing by its previous owner. The aperture and helicoid operations are incredibly smooth and pleasant, and the rangefinder coupling is perfectly aligned.
The glass shows a few faint cleaning marks on the front element and slight coating degradation near the edge of the middle element, but these have virtually no impact on actual shooting performance. The results from practical testing were excellent. You can view sample images in the test gallery, all shot near wide-open apertures with the hood attached.
This lens comes with the 12501 hood, a 14102P cap, a white-rimmed E48 filter, and the original box.
