An early Elmar 5cm f3.5 housed in a chrome barrel. Helicoid number 1. Distance scale in meters. Half-turn helicoid type. Coated.

This early Elmar was the standard lens fitted after the Anastigmat and Elmax on the early Leica Model A of 1925, and was made using glass supplied by C.P. Goerz. It was produced around 1926–1929.

This example was later factory-converted by Leitz to a rangefinder-coupled Leica screw mount lens, and the elements were also coated.

A36 size. Compatible with the FISON hood, as well as our original FB-07 hood for the Elmar 50mm, which allows aperture operation.

Early Elmars housed in chrome barrels are quite rare. The nickel version also has wonderful character, but this chrome barrel matches both black paint and chrome bodies even better. With its coated optics, this is a lens that will surely appeal to the true connoisseur.

The chrome-plated barrel has a beautiful shine and is in lovely condition. As is typical, the collapsible section shows some light scuffing, but there are no noticeable marks on the name ring, base, or mount surface, and it remains in exceptionally clean condition.

Fully overhauled in April 2026. The aperture ring and helicoid feel very smooth, with a pleasant, well-tuned operation. Rangefinder coupling is spot-on, and focus is accurate. The matte lacquer inside the barrel, used to prevent internal reflections, has also been carefully repainted, so an even more contrasty rendering can be expected.

The front and rear elements show a few very faint cleaning marks and some minor coating wear, but these should have virtually no effect on image quality. The results of our test shots were also excellent.

Comes with the rare flat-type original front cap and rear cap.