Elmar M 50mm f2.8. Black finish. Leica product code 11831. A reissue that follows the design of the original Elmar 50mm f2.8 introduced in 1957. It was first released in 1995 as a limited model for the Leica M6J, and later entered regular production. Unlike the earlier Elmar with a rotating helicoid, this version was improved with a straight helicoid mechanism.
This example is from the 3.87 million serial range, manufactured in 1999. Tessar type optical formula with 3 groups and 4 elements. With the updated coating, image sharpness is further enhanced. Minimum focusing distance is 0.7 m.
Filter size is E39. The matching hood is the screw-in type 12550.

Some wear is visible on the front lens cap, but otherwise there are hardly any signs of use and the overall appearance is very clean.
The aperture and helicoid operate smoothly, and rangefinder coupling is precise.
Matching its fine exterior, the glass is clear with no haze or cleaning marks, offering excellent transparency.
Comes with 12550 hood and front and rear caps.
With its modernized design, it pairs beautifully with the recent black-bodied digital M cameras, making it the quintessential Leica standard lens.