A Leica screw mount lens made by Steinheil, a mid-sized optical manufacturer based in Munich, Germany. Orthostigmat 35mm f4.5. It features a 4-group 6-element Orthometer-type design. The distance scale is marked in feet, with a minimum focusing distance of 3.5 feet (approximately 1 meter).
Although the maximum aperture is relatively small and there is some vignetting, it delivers sharp rendering with gentle tones, producing images with a pleasing atmosphere. The two focusing knobs extending like ears give it an adorable design, often nicknamed Mickey Mouse.
While prices of non-Leitz Leica screw mount lenses have risen considerably, the Orthostigmat 35mm remains relatively easy to find, as production numbers were comparatively high.

There are traces of aluminum wear around the outer edge of the barrel front, but no noticeable scratches or dings elsewhere.
Fully overhauled in November 2025. Thanks to meticulous servicing, the aperture clicks feel pleasant and the helicoid turns smoothly—this is a lens you will truly enjoy using. Focusing accuracy and rangefinder coupling are both excellent.
The glass is as clean as the fine exterior suggests. There are a few extremely faint cleaning marks on the inner elements, visible only under strong LED light and magnification, and they have no effect on actual photography. For an Orthostigmat, the glass is in remarkably fine condition.
Image quality is excellent as well. Sample photos are posted in the test gallery—please take a look.
The compatible filter size is 36.5 mm, an oddly uncommon dimension. Moreover, the filter thread is recessed, making one wonder if such a filter even exists, but fortunately, this lens comes with a proper matching filter included.