Elmar 3.5cm f3.5, nickel finish. One of the representative pre-war Leitz wide-angle lenses. The Leitz product code is EKURZKUP. Serial number in the 210,000 range, manufactured in 1934. 3 groups, 4 elements. Uncoated. Rangefinder coupled. Desirable meter scale. The helicoid is the half-turn type.
Introduced in 1930, the Elmar 35mm became rangefinder coupled with the so-called heavy cam alongside the release of the DII in 1932. In 1933, it was improved from a full-turn helicoid to a half-turn helicoid, gradually evolving over the years.
A Leica lens nearly as compact as the Hektor 28mm, offering excellent portability. Mounted on a black & nickel Leica DII or DIII, it presents a wonderfully atmospheric appearance.
With the appropriate adapter, it can also be enjoyed on the latest digital M bodies or mirrorless cameras.
Minor signs of wear and small scratches can be seen, but for a nickel Elmar that is over 90 years old, it retains a remarkably fine cosmetic condition. The plating remains in good shape.
It appears to have been carefully serviced in the past, and the operation of each component, including the aperture and helicoid, is exceptionally smooth. Rangefinder coupling is spot on.
A few very shallow cleaning marks are visible on the front element, but they should have virtually no effect on actual shooting. There is no haze, and the glass is beautifully clear. The results of our test shots were also excellent.
Original front and rear caps are included. The front cap is made of bakelite, and the rear cap is brass.
