A legendary masterpiece: the first-generation Summicron 35mm f2 with a chrome barrel, commonly known as the 8-element version. The Leitz product code is SAWOM, later 11308. Serial number in the 2.19 million range, manufactured in 1966. Made in Germany. Minimum focusing distance is 0.7 m. Filter size is E39. Coating shows amber and purple tones.
Born in Leitz’s golden era, the 8-element Summicron is admired not only for its superb rendering, but also for its design filled with functional beauty, unmistakably characteristic of German industrial products.
Wide open, it delivers a gentle, soft rendering. Stopped down slightly, a strong sense of depth and dimensionality emerges, and when further stopped down, it transitions into a crisp, sharp image while retaining its inherent softness. Truly a Leica style, truly a Leica look. A timeless masterpiece that continues to be highly regarded. The standard of standards.
Compatible genuine hoods include the ITDOO and IROOA. Later hoods such as the 12585 and 12504 can also be used, but for matching the design and the period, the IROOA or ITDOO is the better choice.

Minor signs of use are visible, but the overall appearance remains very good. For an 8-element version, this lens can be considered in top-tier condition.
A full overhaul including focus adjustment was carried out in January 2026. The aperture, helicoid, and even the infinity stop have been tuned to an outstandingly smooth operating feel. Rangefinder coupling is spot on.
At the periphery of the middle element, there is extremely slight coating deterioration that becomes noticeable only when examined under strong LED light, but it has virtually no effect on actual images. Otherwise, there is no haze or cleaning marks, and the glass is clear and crisp. Test shooting results were also excellent. You can fully enjoy the characteristic wide-open rendering of the 8-element design, with its beautifully balanced softness.
A clean original UVa filter and front and rear caps are included.