Leitz Xenon 50mm f1.5, early version. This example bears the Taylor-Hobson engraving on the name ring, and is thought to have been delivered to the UK market. Among Leica collectors, lenses with more engravings are often considered more prestigious, making this a rather boast-worthy piece.
The Leitz product code is XEMOO. Serial number is in the 280,000 range. Leica Xenon lenses were produced from 1936 to 1950, and this particular lens dates from the very first year of production in 1936. It is the early type with two knurled bands on the focusing ring, commonly referred to as the two-band. It features a hexagonal aperture diaphragm and a 5 elements in 7 groups optical design. Uncoated. The aperture scale follows the continental system (f1.5, 1.6, 2.2, 3.2, 4.5, etc.), with a minimum aperture of f9. Distance scale is in feet.
Compatible filters include E41 and the slip-on type XOOFB.
The Xenon f1.5 was designed by Dr. Tronnier and represents one of the flagship large-aperture lenses of pre-war Leitz. Manufactured by Schneider, total production was limited to around 6,000 units. It was also developed as a competitor to the famed Zeiss Ikon Sonnar, and was considered a very expensive lens at the time.
Although it tends to be overshadowed by later large-aperture standard lenses such as the Summarit and Summilux, it remains a classic, capable of delivering delicate and beautifully soft rendering even wide open.

There are signs of wear from attaching and removing a hood on the front rim of the barrel. Light scuffs can also be seen in places, but considering this Leica Xenon is over 90 years old, it remains in remarkably clean cosmetic condition. There are no noticeable dents or significant damage.
Fully overhauled in March 2026. Thanks to careful servicing, the aperture ring and helicoid—often heavy on Xenon lenses—both operate with exceptionally smooth and pleasing resistance. The anti-reflective matte lacquer inside the barrel has also been carefully reapplied, allowing the lens to deliver its intended rendering.
The front and rear elements show a few extremely faint cleaning marks and slight age-related discoloration, but these have virtually no impact on actual images. The glass remains clear with good transparency, and is in excellent condition for a Xenon.
As a pre-war uncoated lens, it is somewhat susceptible to backlight, but in slightly underexposed scenes it produces a beautifully atmospheric rendering. Test shots have yielded excellent results.
A genuine front cap is included.