Nickel Elmar 35mm f3.5. An early example of the heavy cam, and among the very earliest of that type. Unnumbered (no serial number) nickel-finish barrel. Leitz code EKURZKUP. Uncoated. Distance scale in meters. Full-turn helicoid.
Known in Japan as the heavy cam and overseas as the Snail Cam, this type features a very thick, sloped rangefinder coupling cam. It is seen on early Elmar 35mm examples.
Compatible original hoods include FLQOO and FOOKH. Our FB-07 Elmar 50mm hood also fits.
Please note: when mounted on a Leica DIII with slow speeds, the infinity lock may interfere with the slow speed dial and prevent mounting. We can modify it so the infinity lock clears the dial. The modification is reversible and can be returned to original condition. Please feel free to contact us.
Minor, very faint signs of use can be seen, but there are no noticeable scratches or dents, and the overall appearance remains exceptionally clean. For a heavy cam example, this is a rarely seen, beautiful piece. While it carries the dignified presence of over 90 years since manufacture, the nickel plating still retains a bright and attractive luster.
Fully overhauled in March 2026. With careful servicing, the operation has been refined to an exceptionally smooth and pleasing feel. Rangefinder coupling is accurate, and focus is spot on. The internal anti-reflective matte lacquer inside the barrel has also been carefully reapplied, contributing to a more controlled and crisp rendering.
The front and rear elements show a few light cleaning marks and slight discoloration, but none of these affect image quality. There is no haze, and for a heavy cam lens, the glass condition is remarkably good.
The lens performed very well in our shooting tests. Please take a look at the sample images in our gallery.
Comes with original bakelite front and rear caps, along with the original box. There is a repair mark on the inside of the front cap, but the logo side remains clean.
A rare item.
