MR-Telyt-R 500mm f8. Leica R mount. Leitz product code 11243.
This mirror telephoto lens was introduced in 1980. Designed by Walter Mandler, who created many legendary Leica lenses, it was manufactured by Minolta. This example bears a serial number in the 3.25 million range and was produced in 1983.
Although production continued until around 1996, sales were modest, and only about 3,800 units were made. Even with its dedicated screw-in hood attached, the total length is just 12 cm—remarkably short for its focal length. It is also exceptionally lightweight for a super-telephoto lens, weighing only 745 g.
The optical design consists of 5 elements in 5 groups. The minimum focusing distance is 4 m. The front filter thread is E77, and the rear section accommodates five interchangeable built-in filters. Renowned for its excellent correction of chromatic aberration, this lens offers high contrast and impressive resolving power.
There are almost no signs of use, giving the impression of being nearly new.
A few minute spots of paint loss can be seen around the LENS MADE IN JAPAN engraving on the lower part of the barrel, but they are hardly noticeable.
Fully overhauled in October 2025.
Before servicing, the helicoid felt a bit heavy, but it now operates smoothly with an excellent tactile feel.
The glass is perfectly clear with no haze or cleaning marks, providing crisp and brilliant transparency.
Test shots show superb optical performance.
Comes with the matching serial-numbered original box, case, four dedicated filters (two 13400 UVa, one each of 13401 Red, 13402 Orange, and 13403 Yellow), dedicated hood, front and rear caps.
The 13405 ND filter is not included.
Very few examples of this lens have been fully overhauled.
Both operation and image quality are excellent, making this MR-Telyt-R an outstanding piece suitable even for collectors.
