Elmar 50mm f/3.5. This particular lens is the so-called Red Scale Elmar, named for its red-colored depth of field markings. Leitz product code: ELMAR. Serial number in the 1,320,000 range, manufactured in 1955. Optical construction consists of 4 elements in 3 groups. Accepts A36 clamp-on filters.

This is the final version of the A36-mount Elmar 50mm f/3.5, which had been in continuous production for over 30 years since the days of the Leica Model A. The focusing scale is in meters.

As the ultimate evolution of the A36 Elmar, it stands out for its exceptional build quality—featuring a robust barrel and beautifully textured satin chrome finish.

Compatible hoods include the original Leitz FISON. The FB-07, Flashback's original hood for Elmar lenses that allows for aperture adjustment, can also be used.

A beautifully chrome-plated example. There are only the faintest scuffs on the collapsible barrel, and the satin chrome surfaces show almost no signs of use—an exceptionally clean lens body.

Fully overhauled in May 2025. Thanks to careful servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid offer an exceptionally smooth and satisfying feel. The internal anti-reflective matte black coating has also been meticulously reapplied, promising the lens’s characteristically crisp rendering. The focus action is superb—precise and stress-free. Rangefinder coupling is perfectly accurate. The rear element shows a few light cleaning marks, but they should have virtually no effect on actual image quality.

Now in its 70th year, this Elmar continues to shine—not only on Barnack Leicas, but also on M-mount film bodies and modern digital Leica cameras.

Comes with an original Leitz front cap.