Elmarit 28mm f2.8, the popular 2nd version with infinity lock. This is an early example of the second generation Elmarit. Leica product code 11801R.
Serial number in the 2.31 million range, manufactured in 1969. Leitz Canada production.
Thanks to the retrofocus optical design, the rear element protrusion is reduced, allowing use on Leica M5 and CL bodies.
It also eliminates the need for exposure compensation on bodies with built-in light meters, offering excellent practicality. From f4 to f5.6, slightly stopped down, the lens delivers outstanding three-dimensional rendering in the central area.
Accepts E48 filters, or Series VII filters when used with the 12501 hood.

There are four very small paint losses at the points where the hood claws make contact on the front of the lens, but aside from that, there is hardly any sign of wear. The barrel is exceptionally clean overall.
A full overhaul including focus adjustment was carried out in January 2026. The aperture ring has a pleasant, crisp click, and the helicoid has been finished with a smooth, well-damped feel. Even the way the infinity stop settles into place has been carefully tuned. Rangefinder coupling is spot on, and focusing is accurate.
On the front element, there are two to three extremely faint cleaning marks. There is also slight coating deterioration around the perimeter of the middle element, but neither has any noticeable effect on actual shooting.
Results from test shooting were also excellent.
High contrast and resolution, combined with gentle fall-off and softness toward the edges, give this lens a very appealing character. This early version with an infinity stop is a slightly scarce and popular model, often sought out by name.
A 12501 hood and a third-party hood cap are included. The 12501 hood itself is also in very nice condition, well matched to the lens.