Summaron 28mm f5.6, commonly known as the Red Summaron. It is one stop brighter than its predecessor, the Hektor 28mm f6.3. This particular lens was manufactured in 1958 with a serial number in the 1.55 million range. Leitz product code is SNOOX. The distance scale is in meters. Optical design consists of 6 elements in 4 groups in a Gauss-type configuration.

Introduced in 1955 as the successor to the Hektor 28mm f6.3, it was produced until 1963. The filter diameter remains the same as the Hektor 28mm, using a 36mm slip-on type (A36).

This lens was made during Leitz’s postwar golden era, alongside the Leica M3, MP, and M2. It is highly regarded not only for its outstanding optical performance but also for the exceptional quality of its chrome finish and a timeless design that shows no signs of age even after nearly 70 years. It remains a beloved classic among Leica enthusiasts. When paired with the dedicated square hood SOOBK, its appearance is exceptionally stylish—an embodiment of the elegant design philosophy of Leica in that era.

In recent years, a surprising modern reissue sparked renewed interest, but the original version remains relatively scarce and increasingly hard to find in clean condition.

There are no noticeable scuffs, scratches, or dents, and the overall appearance is quite clean.
Fully overhauled in June 2025. Thanks to careful maintenance, the helicoid moves very smoothly, and the aperture ring also operates smoothly. Rangefinder coupling is accurate, and focusing performance is excellent.
The glass shows minimal balsam separation near the edge of an inner element and faint hairlines on the front and rear elements, but none of these affect image quality. For a Red Summaron, which is often known for hazy elements, this one has relatively clean optics, with no whitening even under backlight.
The result of the test shoot was also very good. Sample images have been posted in our Test Gallery—please have a look.
Comes with original front and rear caps.