Summicron 35mm f/2, 8-Element Version. Serial number: 1,650,000 range, manufactured in 1959. Leitz product code: SAWOM, later 11308. Made in Canada. Minimum focusing distance: 0.7m.
Beyond its exceptional image quality, this lens embodies the functional beauty characteristic of Leitz products from its golden era, featuring a stunning chrome finish. When mounted on a Leica M2, it exudes an undeniable elegance.
At wide open, it delivers a soft and delicate rendering, while stopping down slightly enhances dimensionality and depth. As the aperture is further reduced, the lens transitions into a crisp and highly detailed sharpness.
The popularity of the 8-element version has been rising in recent years, and well-preserved examples are becoming increasingly scarce. This particular unit is in remarkably good condition.
Compatible lens hoods: ITDOO or IROOA.
The appearance shows a very small scratch on the edge of the focusing ring knob, but aside from that, the lens is in exceptionally clean condition with no noticeable signs of use.
It has undergone a full overhaul in February 2025, including focus adjustment. After thorough servicing, both the aperture and helicoid offer a smooth and refined operation. The infinity stopper has been softly adjusted, providing a stress-free focusing experience.
The glass shows extremely slight coating wear on the middle element, visible only under strong LED light, but there are no signs of haze or scratches elsewhere, and the glass is pristine. The coating remains intact across all surfaces.
The rangefinder coupling is perfectly aligned, and test shots have yielded excellent results. Sample images have been posted in the Test Shots Gallery, and I would appreciate it if you could take a look.
The lens comes with beautiful, original front and rear caps.
