Summaron 28mm f5.6, commonly known as the Red Summaron. Compared to its predecessor, the Hektor 28mm f6.3, it is one stop faster. This example bears a serial number in the 1.53 million range and was produced in 1957. The Leitz product code is SNOOX. The meter distance scale is especially convenient for street and snapshot photography. The optical design is a 4-group, 6-element Gauss type.
Introduced in 1955 as the successor to the Hektor 28mm f6.3, the Summaron 28mm f5.6 remained in production until 1963. The filter size is the same as the Hektor 28mm, using a 36mm slip-on A36 filter.
This lens was made during the postwar golden age of Leitz, when models such as the Leica M3, M2, and later the MP appeared. In addition to its excellent image quality, it is admired for the superb quality of its chrome plating and a design that still feels timeless nearly 70 years after its debut, which explains its enduring popularity today.
When fitted with the dedicated square hood SOOBK, the lens looks particularly striking, showcasing the clean and elegant styling unique to Leica products of this era. In recent years, an unexpected reissue was released, generating significant excitement among enthusiasts.
There are no signs of use, and the exterior is exceptionally beautiful, close to unused condition. No mounting marks are visible on the mount.
A full overhaul was carried out in January 2026. Thanks to careful servicing, the helicoid operates extremely smoothly, and the aperture ring turns smoothly as well. Rangefinder coupling is spot on.
There is minor coating deterioration visible on the glass surfaces, but it should have virtually no effect on actual photography. In real-world test shots, the lens delivered very pleasing image quality.
With its dramatic light falloff toward the edges, crisp resolution at the plane of focus, and the wide field of view unique to a wide-angle lens, this is truly a superb lens in both name and performance. Sample images are available in our test gallery. Despite its very compact size, it offers satisfyingly crisp focus even wide open, making it an excellent companion for travel.
Original front and rear caps and a plastic case are included.
The original red Summaron was produced in relatively small numbers, and finding a clean example has become increasingly difficult. Highly recommended for collectors as well.
