Hektor 73mm f1.9. Leitz code name HEKON. A classic pre-war Leitz medium-telephoto lens.
This example has a serial number in the 370,000 range and was made in 1937. Meter scale. Straight helicoid type with rangefinder coupling. Finished in black paint and chrome, making it a great visual match for both Barnack Leicas and M-mount bodies. Filter size is E39.
Wide open, it produces a very soft rendering with a gentle glow. Stopping down increases sharpness significantly, giving images a more defined character. Apertures around 3.2 to 6.3 are the practical sweet spot, but the wide-open setting is also worth exploring for its classic old-lens softness and atmospheric look.

The front edge, barrel base, and painted areas of the aperture ring show some loss of paint with brass peeking through. The chrome plating on the helicoid has light scuff marks, but no noticeable damage. Considering that nearly ninety years have passed since its manufacture, the overall condition is very good.
Fully overhauled in November 2025, including focus adjustment. Thanks to careful servicing, the operation of both the aperture and helicoid is smooth, and rangefinder coupling is accurate. The internal matte black anti-reflection lacquer has also been neatly renewed, offering a cleaner and more controlled rendering.
The front element shows a few very faint cleaning marks and some age-related yellowing. There is also slight balsam separation around the edge of an inner element, but these points should not affect actual photography. No haze or fungus is present, making this a very good optical condition for a Hektor.
Test shots came out excellent. Sample images are available in our test gallery, all taken at full aperture.
The original hood is in a condition that matches the lens itself. Third-party front and rear caps are included.
A highly practical lens for regular use.