Summicron 35mm f2, chrome barrel. The legendary 8-element version. Made in Germany. Serial number in the 1,780,000 range, manufactured in 1960.
This is an early 8-element example with an aluminum front barrel section, or filter ring, a feature occasionally seen on early production pieces. The Leitz product code was SAWOM, later 11308. Minimum focusing distance is 0.7m. Filter size is E39.
This example is the L/M convertible type. By loosening the set screw and removing the M-mount ring, the Leica L mount appears underneath. An 8-element Summicron that can be enjoyed on both M-mount Leicas and Barnack cameras.
Its soft rendering wide open is iconic, but stopping down slightly brings a much stronger sense of three-dimensionality. Stopping down further, it changes into a sharp rendering while still retaining its gentle character. A superb lens with a wide range of photographic expression.
Not only is the rendering wonderful, but the functional beauty of its design, so typical of German industrial products, is also highly appealing. Since the 1990s, the popularity of the 8-element Summicron has only continued to grow, and good examples are becoming harder to find year by year.
The original matching hoods are ITDOO or IROOA, among others. Later hoods such as 12585 and 12504 can also be used.
There are fine scuffs around the entire aluminum section at the front of the barrel from attaching and removing the hood, as well as minor scuff marks on the helicoid ring and lens base. There are no dents or knocks.
Fully overhauled in May 2026, including focus adjustment. The aperture ring moves smoothly with positive click stops, and the helicoid also operates very smoothly. Before the overhaul, the lens tended to front-focus, but after careful adjustment, the rangefinder coupling is now spot-on.
The glass shows only the slightest coating wear, barely visible even when held up to a strong LED light, and it should have virtually no effect on actual images. There are no noticeable cleaning marks or haze, and the glass is beautifully clear and bright.
The beautiful original coatings remain on each surface, with orange-purple and blue tones. The results of our test shooting were also excellent. The rendering near wide open has a wonderfully atmospheric softness.
Comes with genuine front and rear caps and a UVa filter. The front cap shows signs of use.
