Tele-Elmarit 90mm in black chrome. This is an early example of the black-barrel version made by Leitz Canada, featuring a sharp and purposeful red scale. The Leitz catalog number is 11800. Serial number in the 2.14 million range, manufactured in 1965.
Although a telephoto lens, its overall length is close to that of a 50mm lens, making it remarkably compact and easy to fit in the palm of your hand. The knurled rings are beautifully executed, reminiscent of early Summilux lenses, giving the lens an elegant and refined appearance. Its well-balanced weight and the naturally positioned, smooth-operating helicoid contribute to excellent handling. With a practical maximum aperture of f2.8 and a rendering that combines gentle softness with pleasing character, it is also highly regarded for its pictorial quality. A compact Leitz short telephoto that proves extremely useful to keep tucked away in your camera bag.

The black-barrel, red-scale Tele-Elmarit is quite rare. This version followed shortly after the chrome-barrel first model introduced in 1964. A simple change in the color of the engravings significantly alters the overall impression. With its bold, purposeful look—reminiscent of the black paint Summilux 50mm f1.4—it pairs beautifully with black Leica bodies such as the M3, M2, and M4.

This is an item previously sold by our shop and has now returned to us after being carefully used by the customer. This marks its fourth time being offered for sale.

There is extremely slight wear to the black paint on the knurled portion of the distance ring, and very faint marks at the front of the lens barrel from hood attachment and removal. Aside from these minor points, there is virtually no sign of use, and the lens retains a deep, glossy black finish with an exceptionally clean appearance. Approximately 95% condition, approaching near-new.

Fully overhauled in 2024. Thanks to meticulous servicing, the aperture ring and helicoid remain exceptionally smooth in operation, and rangefinder coupling is spot on.

In keeping with its beautiful exterior, the glass is also in excellent condition, with no noticeable cleaning marks or haze.

The matching original box is included, making this an ideal piece for collectors as well. A truly hard-to-find condition.