Elmarit 90mm f2.8, black barrel / black chrome finish. Yellow scale version. Leitz catalog number 11129. Serial number in the 2.42 million range, manufactured in 1970. Optical design of 3 groups, 5 elements.
Although the Tele-Elmarit, made in Canada, was introduced in 1965 as the successor, this lens continued to be manufactured in Germany in parallel. Its slightly longer barrel has sometimes made it less popular, yet it offers excellent optical performance comparable to the Tele-Elmarit. The helicoid and aperture ring are naturally positioned, providing outstanding handling.
By removing the lens head and attaching the 16464 (OTZFO) adapter, it can also be used with the Visoflex system.
Weighing only 328 g, it is light for a medium telephoto lens and is ideal to carry alongside a standard lens for casual snapshots.
The dedicated hood is IUFOO (12575), and it accepts E39 filters.
While most Elmarit lenses on the market today suffer from heavy haze and stiff helicoids, this particular example has been carefully serviced and works smoothly, ready for enjoyable use. A perfect companion even for the upcoming sports season.
There are two pinpoint-sized paint losses on the front hood mount and a faint scuff on the knurled section, but no other noticeable marks or signs of wear, leaving the lens in excellent overall condition. Fully overhauled in August 2025, with precise servicing that provides a pleasant click feel on the aperture and smooth helicoid operation. Rangefinder coupling and focusing accuracy are both excellent. The glass is clear, free from cleaning marks or haze, matching the beautiful exterior. Test shots also showed very good results.