The renowned pre-war Leitz medium-telephoto lens, Hektor 73mm f1.9. Finished in beautiful black paint with nickel plating. The Leitz code is HEKON.
This example bears a serial number in the 120,000 range, one of the very first Hektor 73mm lenses produced in 1931, its inaugural year. The focusing scale is in meters, with a rotating helicoid design. It originally takes a slip-on filter, though 39mm screw-in filters can also be used.
Wide open, it delivers a gently diffused rendering with a soft glow, full of classic old-lens character. As the aperture is stopped down, resolution gradually increases, resulting in a more defined image that beautifully highlights the subject.
Apertures between f3.2 and f6.3 are especially practical, yet the distinctive old-lens character found wide open to around f2.2 is equally compelling and well worth exploring.
Both the exterior and the glass are in remarkably clean condition.
There are very slight signs of wear to the black paint, but no noticeable dents or scratches. For a Hektor 7.3cm—many of which show heavy use—this example has a remarkably beautiful appearance. The nickel plating and silver inlays retain a subdued, elegant sheen.
Fully overhauled in January 2026. The operation of all parts has been finished to a wonderfully smooth feel. The helicoid turns exceptionally smoothly—so pleasant that you may find yourself rotating it for no particular reason. Rangefinder coupling is spot on. Although the minimum focusing distance scale indicates 1.5m, this lens can actually focus closer, allowing rangefinder-coupled shooting down to around 1.1m. A small but delightful bonus for a Hektor.
There is slight age-related discoloration to the front element, but considering how many Hektor 73mm lenses are covered in cleaning marks, the glass here is very clean. No haze or balsam separation is present. The results of the practical shooting test were also excellent.
A beautiful original hood matching the condition of the lens, along with front and rear caps and the original box, are included.
A well-balanced example with excellent cosmetics, glass, focusing accuracy, and accessories all in place ♫
Also highly suitable for a collection.
