Leica Summar 50mm f2. Chrome finish. Serial number in the 310,000 range, manufactured in 1936. Leitz product code: SUMUS.
Pre-war uncoated model. Six-blade aperture. The aperture scale uses Continental notation (f2, 2.2, 3.2–). Distance scale in feet. Takes A36 filters. The correct genuine hood is the SOOMP.
A classic Leica standard lens known for its rich double Gauss-style bokeh and characteristic vignetting. Wide open, it delivers a soft and atmospheric rendering, while stopping down produces sharper images yet retains a pleasing smoothness.
The Summar evolved through several versions, beginning with the earliest “Hyottoko” model, followed by the black-front version, and finally this most widely produced model. Each barrel style exists in both nickel and chrome variations. Toward the end of production, the Tropen Summar also appeared.
This example is the most common and best-known version: the all-chrome collapsible model.
There are some light scuffs on the collapsible barrel section, and the chrome plating on the lens barrel shows a few very faint hairline marks and tiny scratches. Even so, for a Summar, it remains in remarkably clean cosmetic condition.
Fully overhauled in May 2026. Thanks to careful servicing, both the aperture ring and helicoid now operate with exceptional smoothness, offering a stress-free and highly satisfying handling experience. Rangefinder coupling and focus accuracy are both spot on. The matte black anti-reflection lacquer inside the barrel has also been carefully reapplied, which should contribute to even tighter image rendering.
The front element shows extremely faint cleaning marks that are only visible under strong LED light, but they should have virtually no effect on actual photographs. Aside from that, the glass is free from haze or fungus and remains beautifully clear and well transparent. For a Summar, the optics are impressively clean. When viewed under light, the glass has that striking gleam that hints at excellent image quality.
The results from our test shooting were also excellent. A Summar with clean glass like this is capable of truly impressive rendering. Considering how many heavily worn examples exist, this is quite a hard-to-find lens.
A genuine front cap and a third-party rear cap are included.
