A complete set of the Carl Zeiss Hologon 15mm f/8 lens for Leica M-mount.
This is an ultra-wide-angle lens with an impressive 110° field of view—not a fisheye, but a high-performance rectilinear design.
It is said that approximately 350 units were produced between 1972 and 1976 (some sources mention 500 units, but based on historical sales records, the actual number is likely closer to 350).
Leitz catalog number: 11003. Filter size: E60. Optical construction: 3 elements in 3 groups, including a specially shaped central element. The aperture is fixed at f/8.
This lens delivers exceptional performance, rendering straight lines as straight even at the edges. However, it suffers from significant light falloff toward the periphery, which is corrected by attaching the dedicated ND filter included with the set—effectively reducing the aperture to f/16.
Notably, this lens was preceded by the 1968 release of the Hologon Ultra Wide, a dedicated super-wide-angle camera based on the Contarex Super and equipped with the same Hologon 15mm lens.
Among the countless Leica-compatible lenses ever made, this one shines as a true gem. Its mystical front and rear elements have an almost cosmic allure—you could lose yourself gazing into them. A true rarity.
This is an item previously sold by our store, and it has now returned to us after being carefully looked after by its former owner.
There are only minimal signs of use—some very slight scuffing on the lens mount and the accessory shoe foot of the viewfinder—but otherwise, the exterior remains exceptionally clean and well-preserved.
The helicoid was regreased and focus adjusted in 2023. All functions operate smoothly, and focusing is accurate. The viewfinder offers a bright, clear view.
Although a 16mm version of the lens with the same name was released later, its rendering characteristics are entirely different from this original 15mm version. Please note that when used on digital M bodies, significant color shifts can occur around the edges, and some models may not be compatible at all. It is not usable on the Leica CL, and while it can be mounted on the M5, metering will not function.
This particular example is a rare officially imported Japanese-market unit. It comes with the dedicated ND filter, matching viewfinder, front and rear caps, matching-number warranty card from Schmidt Co., and the original box.
A truly exceptional condition—perfect for collectors.
