Summicron 35mm f2 with chrome barrel, commonly known as the 8-element version. Made in Germany. This piece is the early model with an aluminum filter ring, manufactured in 1958.
Its serial number is 16307xx, belonging to the very first batch of the 8-element lenses starting from 1630501. Shortly after this batch, the black paint version for the M3 also appeared.
The Leitz product code is SAWOM, later 11308. The minimum focusing distance is 0.7 m, and the filter size is E39.
This example is a dual L/M type. By loosening the set screw and removing the M-mount ring, the Leica L-mount appears, allowing the lens to be used on both M-series and Barnack Leica cameras.
Its soft rendering at full aperture is iconic, but stopping down slightly brings a strong sense of three-dimensionality, and closing down further produces sharp images while retaining smoothness. A lens with wide expressive capabilities.
Beyond its outstanding optical performance, the design reflects the functional beauty typical of German industrial products. In recent years, the popularity of the 8-element version has continued to rise, and good examples are becoming increasingly hard to find.
Compatible genuine hoods include ITDOO and IROOA, with later types such as 12585 and 12504 also fitting.
The aluminum front rim shows fine wear all around from attaching and removing the hood, and there are light scratches on the helicoid and lens base, but no dings or dents. Fully overhauled in September 2025. Thanks to thorough servicing, the aperture ring now moves smoothly with a precise click, and the helicoid turns fluidly for an excellent handling feel. Rangefinder coupling is perfectly accurate.
Around the central elements, a few faint cleaning marks can be seen when illuminated by a strong LED light, along with a somewhat higher number of small dot-like coating deteriorations, but these should have virtually no impact on photography. No haze or fungus is present. The glass retains its beautiful original purple-tinted coating on all surfaces.
Test shots also produced excellent results. The sharpness and precision of focus that characterize early examples may be something I notice with bias as an early-production enthusiast (laughs). Sample images are posted in the gallery, please have a look.
Comes with original front and rear caps. The front cap is also an early-period version covered in purple velvet, matching the era.
