Early Elmar 5cm f3.5. Finished in softly glowing nickel plating. Helicoid number 1. Half-turn type. Distance scale in meters. Short-barrel version with a compact lens tube. The Leitz product code is the dignified ELMAR.
Manufactured in the mid to late 1920s, this early Elmar was originally mounted on the first-generation Leica A models and made using optical glass supplied by C.P. Goerz. This particular example was later factory-converted by Leitz into a Leica screw-mount interchangeable lens with rangefinder coupling.
The nickel plating retains a beautiful luster, and the glass is in good condition. Complete with accessories, this is a fine example of the early Elmar, well suited for a collection.
For an early Elmar, this example shows remarkably little sign of use, with beautifully preserved plating. Considering that nearly 100 years have passed since its manufacture, the state of preservation is truly astonishing. There is a very slight distortion to the name ring, but it is barely noticeable at a glance.
Fully overhauled in January 2026. The aperture and helicoid now operate with exceptionally smooth action, just as one would hope. Rangefinder coupling is spot on. The matte anti-reflection lacquer inside the barrel has also been carefully reapplied, promising even more controlled and refined rendering.
The glass is clear and free from haze. There is virtually no discoloration or cleaning marks. The optics remain in a condition that allows you to fully enjoy the lens’s original performance.
Supplied with original brass black-painted front and rear caps. Both caps are in very clean condition. Original flat caps in this level of preservation are rarely seen.
