Summaron 35mm f/3.5, early version, A36 model.
Leica screw mount (LTM). Serial number in the 1.22 million range, manufactured in 1954—the same year the Leica M3 was released.
Leitz product code: SOONC.
Optical construction: 6 elements in 4 groups, double Gauss design.
Distance scale in feet. Accepts A36 clip-on filters.
Introduced in 1946 as the successor to the Elmar 35mm f/3.5, the Summaron is slightly taller and heavier than the Elmar, yet still highly compact and portable.
Its vintage design adds to its charm, making it a favorite among classic lens enthusiasts.
It delivers excellent central resolution, and when shot wide open, the natural vignetting around the edges lends a dramatic and atmospheric rendering.
Despite its superb performance, the Summaron was produced in relatively large numbers, keeping prices reasonable—making it a beloved and accessible Leica wide-angle classic.
Compatible lens hood: FOOKH.
he lens is in excellent cosmetic condition with minimal signs of use and no noticeable scratches.
Fully overhauled in March 2025.
The aperture and helicoid offer exceptionally smooth operation, and rangefinder coupling is perfectly accurate.
The inner element shows slight coating deterioration that is only visible under a strong LED light, but it has virtually no effect on actual image quality.
For a Summaron—often known for haze issues—this example is in remarkably good optical condition.
Test shots also produced excellent results.
Comes with original front and rear caps.
