Pre-war Hektor 2.8cm f6.3, HOOPYCHROM, manufactured in 1939, with a chrome finish. The distance scale is in feet, and the aperture follows the continental system. This lens features a faint blue coating, likely applied by Leitz in the early post-war period.
Among Leica lenses, the Hektor 28mm is the most compact, making it an excellent fit not only for Barnack Leicas but also for M-mount cameras via an M/L adapter. Its ultra-thin design pairs beautifully with chrome and black paint bodies alike. The original compatible hood is the trumpet-shaped SOOHN.
This particular Hektor 28mm benefits from its subtle blue coating, helping to mitigate susceptibility to backlight, resulting in good image quality. It is also a great lens for comparisons with its legendary successor, the Red Summaron. A somewhat rare.
There are numerous minor scuffs and small scratches from use, but considering its pre-war Hektor status, the exterior condition is quite good with no signs of plating lift.
Fully overhauled in February 2025, the aperture and helicoid operate with a smooth, refined feel, and the rangefinder well coupled.
The front element has some light cleaning marks, but there is no haze or fungus marks. Test shots produced crisp contrast, likely thanks to the coating.
Comes with the original front cap.
