Elmar 50mm f3.5. This version, commonly known as the Red Elmar or Red Scale, features red-colored depth-of-field markings. Leica product code ELMAR. Serial number in the 1,200,000 range, manufactured in 1954. Optical construction of 3 groups and 4 elements. Uses A36 filters. Distance scale in feet.

The final version of the A36 Elmar 50mm f3.5, a lens that had been produced for over 30 years since the Leica Model A era. It stands out for its exceptional build quality, with a solid barrel and fine matte chrome finish.

The appropriate genuine hood is FISON. You can also pair it with the Flashback original hood for Elmar lenses, FB-07, which allows aperture operation while the hood is attached.

The exterior is in excellent condition, showing near-unused beauty across the nameplate, base, and collapsible barrel. Manufactured in the same year the Leica M3 was introduced, this lens embodies the superb craftsmanship of Leitz’s postwar golden era.
Fully overhauled in October 2025. Both aperture and focusing helicoid now operate with smooth precision, and rangefinder coupling is perfectly aligned.
The glass shows no noticeable scratches. When examined under strong LED light, the rear element reveals only slight whitish coating deterioration, which has no effect on image quality. The original coatings are well preserved on all surfaces, and the test shots produced excellent results.
Comes with non-Leitz front and rear caps.