Elmarit 28mm f2.8 first version, known as the nine-element type. Popular red scale. Made in Canada. Leitz product code is 11801. Serial number in the 2.06 million range, manufactured in 1964. Optical design is a non-retrofocus type with 6 groups and 9 elements.
Its distinctive waistline shape, striking red markings, and the smooth black-paint infinity lock, combined with rich tonal rendering and gentle bokeh, make this one of the most sought-after lenses among all generations of the Elmarit 28mm.
It accepts E48 filters, or Series 7 filters when used together with the 12501 hood. Please note that it cannot be mounted on the Leica M5 or CL.

This is an item previously sold by our shop. Signs of use such as rubbing are visible on various parts, but there are no dings or dents. The black paint on the infinity lock has worn naturally, revealing the brass underneath. The 12501 hood shows some shine from handling.
It received a full overhaul in 2025. Thanks to careful servicing, the aperture and helicoid still operate smoothly, and rangefinder coupling is excellent. The lens shows a small shallow mark on the front element, a few very faint cleaning marks, and slight coating deterioration on an inner element, but none of these affect actual photography. There is no balsam separation, a common issue with the 9-element version, and the glass is clear with excellent transparency.
Test shots were highly satisfactory with accurate focus. The lens delivers sharp, high-resolving performance right from full aperture, showing the crisp rendering characteristic of the first version Elmarit.
Included are the 12501 hood, Series 7 UVa filter, 14102P front cap, genuine rear cap, an aftermarket hood cap, and the original box, although the serial numbers do not match.