Summaron 35mm f3.5, early A36 version for Leica screw mount. Serial number in the 1.1 million range, manufactured in 1953. The Leitz product code is SOONC. Double-Gauss design with 6 elements in 4 groups. Distance scale in feet. Accepts A36 slip-on filters.
Introduced in 1946 as the successor to the Elmar 35mm f3.5. Compared with the Elmar 35mm, it became slightly taller and heavier, but it still remains very compact with excellent mobility. The classic old-lens design is also very appealing.
The center delivers finely detailed rendering, while natural vignetting near wide open creates a dramatic atmosphere toward the edges. It offers beautiful image quality, yet was produced in relatively large numbers and remains reasonably priced, making it a very welcome classic Leica wide-angle lens.
That said, the Summaron is also somewhat famous for developing haze, and the image quality can vary considerably depending on the condition of the glass.
Compatible lens hoods are the FOOKH, and also the earlier FLQOO designed for the Elmar 35mm.
There are very slight signs of use on the barrel, but no noticeable scratches or dents. Overall, the lens maintains a very clean appearance.
A full overhaul was carried out in March 2026. The aperture ring offers a pleasant, crisp click, and the helicoid operates with a smooth and refined feel. The anti-reflection matte lacquer inside the barrel has also been carefully reapplied, which should contribute to improved contrast and tighter image rendering. Rangefinder coupling is accurate and focusing is excellent.
The glass shows a few extremely faint cleaning marks on the front and rear elements, but these have no practical effect on image quality. The haze often seen on Summaron lenses is not present, and the glass is clear and bright. Test shooting results were also excellent.
The original front cap and a bakelite case are included.
