Triplet Elmar 90mm f4. A three-element, three-group design. This example is the somewhat rare Leica L-mount version. The Leitz product code is 11730U.
The serial number is in the 1.92 million range, manufactured in 1962. Sales of this Triplet Elmar began in 1964. Incidentally, the M-mount version of this lens shares the same product code as the earlier four-element, three-group Elmar 90mm. The filter size is E39.
With a maximum aperture of f4 it is relatively slow, but the lens itself weighs just 192g as measured, making it an exceptionally portable medium telephoto. Known for its high resolving power and crisp rendering, it is commonly nicknamed the Razor Elmar. It offers excellent clarity and straightforward, natural color reproduction. The position of the helicoid is easy to operate, making this a very user-friendly lens overall. Compatible lens hoods are IUFOO or 12575.
The Leica IIIg, the last of the Barnack Leicas, had already ceased production in 1960, and this three-element Elmar introduced in 1962 was therefore produced almost entirely in M mount. Only 543 units were supplied in Leica screw mount, making this a genuinely scarce example.
Two small marks can be seen on the front edge of the lens barrel. There are also faint signs of wear on and around the knurled section of the helicoid, but they are not particularly noticeable, and overall the exterior remains in quite nice condition.
The aperture and helicoid operate smoothly, and the rangefinder coupling works perfectly.
On the inner lens element, there are minor signs of coating wear and a small amount of dust that can only be seen when viewed under strong LED light, but these will have virtually no effect on actual image quality. There is no fungus, haze, or any other noticeable damage.
The original front and rear caps are included.
