Early version of the Elmarit 28mm f2.8, commonly known as the 9-element model. This is the highly sought-after red scale version, made in Canada. Leica product code is 11801. Serial number in the 2,060,000 range. Manufactured in 1964. It features a non-retrofocus optical design with 9 elements in 6 groups.
With its elegant waist-shaped barrel, bold red lettering, smoothly integrated black infinity lock, and a reputation for rich tonal rendering and gentle bokeh, this lens remains one of the most popular among all generations of Elmarit 28mm.
It takes E48 filters, or Series VII filters when used with the 12501 lens hood.
Please note that this lens is not compatible with the Leica M5 and CL.

Signs of use can be seen throughout the lens, such as scuff marks, but there are no dents or major dings. The black paint on the infinity lock has worn naturally, revealing the underlying brass. The 12501 hood shows some shine from handling.

Fully overhauled in May 2025. Thanks to careful servicing, the aperture and focusing ring operate smoothly, and the rangefinder coupling is perfectly accurate.
The front element shows a few very faint cleaning marks, and there is minor coating deterioration on an inner element, but none of these affect image quality. Notably, this lens does not suffer from the balsam separation that often plagues 9-element versions. The optics are clear and crisp.
Test shots show excellent results with accurate focusing. Even wide open, the lens is sharp and delivers the high-resolution rendering for which the first-generation Elmarit is known. Its legendary crispness remains intact.

Includes: 12501 hood, Series VII UVa filter, 14102P front cap, original Leica rear cap, third-party hood cap, and the original box (serial number does not match).