The Hektor 28mm f6.3, designated by Leitz with the product code HOOPYCHROM, is a chrome-barrel lens with a serial number in the 350,000 range, manufactured in 1937. It is uncoated, features a meter-based distance scale, and uses a continental-style aperture scale. The lens is constructed with 3 groups and 5 elements. Produced for an impressive two decades from 1935 until it was succeeded by the red Summaron 28mm in 1955, it holds a special place in Leica’s history.
Among Leica lenses, it is the smallest, offering unmatched portability when paired with a Barnack Leica. On an M-series Leica, its compactness becomes even more striking. True to Leitz’s craftsmanship, its timeless design feels perfectly at home even on modern digital M cameras.
This particular example features clean glass and delivers an impressively solid image quality. A side-by-side comparison with the red Summaron 28mm promises to be an enjoyable endeavor.
The matching Leitz hood for this lens is the *SOOHN*, a trumpet-shaped, elegant, and minimalist hood that complements the lens beautifully.
The barrel shows slight scuffs and very fine scratches indicative of use, but there are no prominent marks or dents, maintaining a still very attractive appearance.
Between the mtr marking and the infinity symbol on the base of the barrel, there are faintly engraved alphanumeric characters of unknown meaning. These were likely inscribed by a previous owner sometime during the lens’s nearly 90-year history. The characters are so faint that they can only be recognized under magnification with a loupe, making them barely noticeable.
A complete overhaul, including focus adjustment and rangefinder cam alignment, was performed in October 2024. The helicoid operates smoothly with excellent tactile feedback, and the aperture adjustment is equally fluid. The focus and rangefinder coupling are spot-on.
The glass is free from cleaning marks and is exceptionally clear, particularly for a Hektor lens. The condition of the optics is superb. Results from test shots were also outstanding.
The lens comes with both front and rear original caps.
