A rare black and nickel Elmar 90mm f4, found only in the very early transitional period when the Fat Elmar evolved into the Thin Elmar.

The Leitz product code is ELANG. Rangefinder coupled. 3 elements in 4 groups. Uncoated. Serial number in the 320,000 range, manufactured in 1933.

Within just two or three years after this period, Leica rapidly increased production of chrome-plated models, and the trend shifted toward the so-called white bodies. Distance scale in meters. Accepts A36 slip-on filters.

Succeeding the “Daruma” model, this nickel Thin Elmar is not widely known. When paired with a black and nickel Leica DII or DIII body, it creates an exceptionally striking appearance. For that reason, it is a lens many collectors quietly seek.

Production of the black and nickel Thin Elmar began in 1933 at serial number 165001, and this example is the 33rd piece from that start. Highly appealing for enthusiasts of very early production pieces.

Rare item.

Due to long years of use, the black paint on the edges of the barrel and the knurled rings has become slightly thin, and the faintly visible brass underneath creates a truly wonderful atmosphere.

Fully overhauled in January 2026. The aperture and helicoid operate very smoothly, and the rangefinder coupling is spot on.
The glass shows only very slight age-related discoloration. There are no noticeable cleaning marks or haze, and the results of our test shooting were excellent. It delivers the gentle color rendition characteristic of a pre-war uncoated lens.

It comes with the traditional metal original front and rear caps, a lineage that dates back to the Leica A era, along with the original box. A fine piece for any collection.