Super-Elmar-R 15mm f3.5. Three cam version. Leitz product code 11213. An ultra-wide-angle lens released in 1980. Serial number follows the Schneider sequence in the 3.21 million range. Optical design consists of 12 groups with 13 elements.
From maximum aperture to the smallest stop, it incorporates an uncompromising design with perfectly corrected aberrations, achieving astonishing performance.
The minimum focusing distance is an impressive 0.16 m. On the helicoid, the scale jumps from the 0.8 m mark straight to infinity, allowing for almost pan-focus shooting. Peripheral light falloff is also thoroughly addressed.
In addition, the lens features a built-in turret filter system. Four filters—UVa, yellow, orange, and blue—are mounted on a single rotating disc, allowing quick switching. A very sophisticated construction.
There is a slight ding on one corner of the hood, but it is barely noticeable at a glance. Otherwise, the lens shows little sign of use and retains a clean appearance.
It received a full overhaul in September 2025. This lens is notoriously difficult to service, and one wonders how many examples in the world have been fully disassembled and overhauled. The cleaning was said to be extremely challenging, yet thanks to the meticulous work, the operation of both the aperture and helicoid is now exceptionally smooth.
Although the large front element is prone to scratches, this particular piece shows no prominent marks. The built-in UVa filter has two or three faint linear scratches near the center, but they do not affect image quality. Careful cleaning has left the glass free of haze, with a bright and clear appearance.
Original front and rear caps are included.