A Hektor 5cm with a serial number in the 160,000 range, manufactured in 1933. This chrome-barrel version is designated by Leitz as HEKTORCHROM. The distance scale is in meters. The optical design consists of a modified triplet with three groups and six elements, all cemented. It is uncoated.
Despite its bright f/2.5 aperture, this lens remains compact and lightweight, making it Leica’s first collapsible high-speed lens. The helicoid is marked with number 2.
When used near wide open, it delivers a beautifully soft, classic vintage rendering. Many Hektor lenses have been improperly polished overseas or suffer from misaligned focus, making careful selection essential. We take great care when sourcing these lenses, and this particular piece, thanks to meticulous servicing, offers excellent imaging, smooth rangefinder coupling, and precise handling.
A rare gem in original condition, preserving the Hektor’s signature rendering. A scarce collector’s item.
There are some light scuffs and minor signs of use, as well as fine scratches on the collapsible section, but no noticeable dents or deep scratches. For a Hektor, this lens is in remarkably clean condition.
Fully overhauled in January 2025. The aperture and helicoid operate with a smooth, refined feel, and the rangefinder coupling is perfectly accurate. The interior anti-reflective matte coating has been carefully reapplied, enhancing contrast and delivering a tighter, more controlled rendering.
The front element has a few faint cleaning marks and slight aging of the glass, but these have no noticeable effect on actual photography. There is no haze, and the glass is clean and well-matched to the exterior condition.
The test shots also yielded excellent results—please check the sample images for reference.
Includes a somewhat rare flat shiny chrome original front cap and a rear cap.
